Have you ever experienced the frustration of trying to turn your shower knob all the way, only to have it stuck in a position that’s too hot, too cold, or just not quite right? Some people feel that they will need to take off their shower head to fix the problem, but that will not be necessary.
I know I have. It’s such a small thing, but it can make the difference between a relaxing shower and a frustrating start to your day. In this article, we’ll explore some of the common reasons why shower knobs might not turn all the way, and what you can do to fix them.
At least this problem is not as challenging as when toilet water comes up through the shower drain.
Mineral build-up
Over time, mineral deposits from hard water can accumulate inside your shower valve, which can make it difficult for the knob to turn smoothly. If you notice that your shower knob is becoming harder to turn, especially if it’s accompanied by a decrease in water pressure, mineral buildup could be the culprit.
Incorrect Installation
Another reason why your shower knob might not be turning all the way is due to an incorrect installation of the shower assembly. If the shower valve stem is not properly positioned or aligned with the handle, it can make it difficult for the knob to turn properly.
Malfunctioning Cartridge
A malfunctioning shower valve cartridge can also cause the shower knob to be difficult to turn all the way, even if you have travertine walls in a shower that you clean all the time. The valve cartridge controls the flow of water through the shower valve and is essential to maintaining the proper water temperature and pressure.
Over time, the valve cartridge can become worn or damaged, which can cause the water flow to become restricted and make the knob harder to turn.
Cracks in Faucet Handle
Cracks in your faucet handle can also cause problems with turning your shower knob. Over time, small cracks can develop in the handle due to wear and tear or exposure to extreme temperatures. These cracks can cause the handle to become loose or wobbly, which can make it difficult to turn the knob. In some cases, the cracks can even cause the handle to break off completely, which can render your shower handle useless.
Faucet Stem is Damaged
If your faucet stem is damaged or worn, it can also make it difficult to turn your shower knob. The faucet stem is the part of the shower valve that connects the handle to the valve cartridge, and it’s responsible for controlling the water flow and temperature.
How to Fix Shower Faucet that Will Not Turn all the Way
To fix a shower faucet that won’t turn all the way, follow the steps below:
- Turn off the water supply to your shower. This is usually done by turning off the main water valve to your house.
- Remove the faucet handle. Look for a screw on the handle that is covered by a cap. Remove the cap and unscrew the handle to remove it.
- Check for any mineral buildup inside the faucet handle. If you notice any white, chalky buildup, soak the assembly in vinegar for a few hours to help dissolve the mineral deposits.
- Reassemble the faucet. Once you’ve cleaned the valve assembly or replaced any damaged parts, reassemble the faucet handle and turn the water back on.
- Test the faucet to make sure it’s working properly. Turn the handle all the way to hot and all the way to cold to make sure the water temperature is correct and that the handle turns properly with no leaks.
