Help! Showerhead still dripping after replacing the valve.

[ka20]

We replaced the valve (whole thing) and our shower head is still dripping. I've taken out the valve and checked it and as far as I can tell it seems fine. Not sure what else to check and I am almost ready to give into calling a plumber. Help please!

 

[johnjh2o]

Can you tell us what make valve you installed? What could have happened is when you turned the water back on after you replaced the valve debris could have gotten into the new valve. It may just be a matter of just disassembling and flushing the valve depending on the make of the faucet.

John

 

[IFIXH20]

I am assuming you replaced the cartridge or stem instead of the valve, if you replaced the cartridge or stem did you use OEM parts instead of knock off after market parts ? If you replaced the valve , remove and clean the valve inners ( cartridge, stem , ceramic cartridge). If you replaced a stem did you replace the seat ?

 

[ka20]

What I replaced was the cartridge..sorry for the confusion. I have attached a picture of what I replaced. I bought it at my local hardware store (it was not a Delta part). I've taken it out and checked it and the pipe everything seems fine. I changed the little screw that allows for more or less hot water, but other than that nothing seemed wrong. Any other suggestions?

 

[johnjh2o]

That looks like it's a cartridge for a Valley faucet. The Valley is no longer in business. The only parts that are available for them are aftermarket. That is never a good thing. Sometimes they work but other times they don't. If you have flushed the valve and it continues to drip I would be looking for another cartridge made by a different manufacturer.

John

 

[ka20]

It's not that exact brand part, but it is the piece I replaced. When you say "flush the valve" what exactly should I be doing?

Thank you for your help!

 

[IFIXH20]

To flush the valve out -- remove the cartridge and turn water back on for a few seconds . place something around wall opening to stop water from going behind wall. If that do not work do as John stated and find a different manufacturer cartridge.

 

[ka20]

I hadn't done that. I'll try it. Thank you!!

 

[IFIXH20]

No problem -- good luck

 

[ka20]

Okay so unfortunately I'm back.... I flushed the valve and that fixed it for a few weeks maybe, but now the showerhead is dripping again. Any other suggestions or is it time to call a professional?