Shower valve or mixer dripping when off
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Most likely cause & what to check
Confirm the drip is coming from the shower head rather than the valve body — water from the head is normal for a few seconds after turning off as residual water drains. A constant drip is a problem.
Turn off the water supplies to the shower — there are usually isolation valves on the hot and cold pipes behind an access panel or under the bath.
Remove the shower valve handle — typically held by an Allen key grub screw or a crosshead screw under a cap.
Remove the thermostatic cartridge or sequential cartridge from the valve body — refer to the valve brand's instructions for the exact method.
Inspect the cartridge O-rings and seals for wear. Many valves use a replaceable cartridge — take it to a plumbers merchant or search the brand and model online to source a replacement.
Fit the new cartridge, reassemble the valve, and turn the water back on. Test for drips.
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Frequently asked questions
My shower is a brands like Grohe, Hansgrohe, or Aqualisa — can I still get parts?
Yes — all major brands supply replacement cartridges. Note your valve model number (usually on a label inside the valve body) and search the brand's website or call a plumbers merchant.