What To Do When Your Shower Fails To Turn Off

The soothing rush of a warm shower is one of life's simple pleasures. But that enjoyment can quickly turn to frustration when your shower refuses to turn off. The constant spray of water can lead to flooding, mold growth, and water damage if left unchecked. If you find yourself pondering in exasperation "why won't my shower turn off?!", this guide covers the likely culprits and solutions to get your shower back in working order.

A shower that won't shut off completely is a common nuisance many homeowners experience. But fear not, this issue can often be resolved with some easy troubleshooting and DIY repairs. We'll walk through diagnosing the problem, fixing common issues like worn washers and valves, and tips for preventing your shower from getting stuck in the future.

Diagnosing the Cause

Pinpointing why your shower is on the fritz is the first step. While an annoying problem, an endlessly running shower is typically caused by just a handful of parts. By methodically checking each component, you can zero in on the issue.

Check The Shower Handle and Faucet

The starting point is assessing the shower's handle and faucet assembly. A loose or damaged handle can prevent the valve from fully closing and shutting off water flow. Try jiggling the handle up and down while turning to see if that stops the water.

Also inspect the handle closely for cracks and loose screws. Tightening the handle set screw underneath with a screwdriver may help create a tighter seal in the valve. Built up sediment and lime can also cause sticking, so scrub around the handle to remove gunk.

Inspect The Shower Cartridge/Valve

If manipulating the shower handle doesn't halt the water, the issue likely lies with the cartridge or valve inside. This internal part contains rubber washers, springs, and seals that control water flow and mixing. Over time, these rubber pieces wear out or corrode and no longer create a watertight seal inside the valve body.

Most shower valves have an easily removable cartridge that can be replaced. Locating the make of your faucet and ordering the right cartridge online is simple and relatively affordable. With the water off, pry off the handle and trim to access and remove the cartridge. Pop in a new one, reinstall the trim and handle, and your shower may be back up and running.

Test the Limit Switch

Some showers have a limit switch installed that automatically shuts off the shower after a certain duration to prevent billing disputes in hotels or dorms. If your home shower suddenly won't shut off, a limit switch may have failed or needs adjusting.

Locate the switch on the shower valve body and try increasing the time limit or toggling the switch on and off. If damaged, these switches can often be replaced easily without replacing the entire valve.

Assess Shower Diverter and Tub Spout

The shower diverter is a gate inside the tub spout that redirects water up to the shower head when engaged. If the diverter gets stuck open, water will pour non-stop from the tub faucet. Check for debris around the diverter and use a small wire brush or pipe cleaner to scrub the gate area and dislodge anything stuck.

Examine Plumbing for Leaks or Clogs

Clogged drains or leaks in the supply lines can also lead to water backing up and appearing not to turn off. Clear any obvious clogs or gunk from the shower drain. Then check under sinks for signs of leaks around supply lines and valves.

Handle and Faucet Issues

If the shower valve appears fine, the problem is likely an issue with the handle or faucet parts. Fortunately, these repairs are very doable for a DIYer with some basic mechanical skills.

Worn Out Handles Won't Fully Close

The constant twisting and turning of shower handles slowly wears down the interior components. Over time, the splines and teeth can warp or strip, leading to wiggle and play in the handle. This prevents forming a tight seal when closing the valve.

Grab the handle firmly and try working it up and down while turning. Sometimes this extra wiggling can temporarily dislodge the handle to fully shut off. But for permanent repairs, replacing the handle is the solution.

Replace Loose, Damaged Handles

For basic handle swaps, simply unthread the handle screw, slide off the old handle and replace with a matching new one. Make sure the new handle properly engages the valve stem and the set screw clamps it firmly in place. Choosing simple matching lever handles rather than ornate ones makes this handy DIY fix even easier.

Clean Built-Up Lime and Sediment

Another issue that can occur is a build up of mineral deposits, soap scum, and sediment around handles and the valve. This prevents the parts from smoothly operating. To tackle this issue, remove the handle and use a toothbrush or wire brush to gently scrub away any grime or corrosion.

Spraying white vinegar or a lime removal product helps dissolve stubborn build up. Make sure to rinse thoroughly before reinstalling the handle. This can often break loose stuck parts for proper turning and shutdown.

Adjust Handle Set Screw for Proper Alignment

If a handle feels loose, it likely needs the set screw underneath tightened. Remove the handle and locate the hex head set screw near the base. Tighten down firmly with a hex (Allen) wrench to secure the handle properly to the stem.

Misalignment issues can also prevent smooth turning. Make sure the handle and stem notch are vertically oriented before tightening the set screw. Have a helper hold the valve stem while you adjust, tighten, and test the handle.

Faulty Shower Cartridge/Valve

If the shower handle assembly appears fine but water persists, the issue almost certainly lies with the cartridge or valve inside the wall. Replacing this crucial part restores water control so your shower can turn off.

Most Common Cause of a Stuck Open Shower

After handles, bad cartridges are the most frequent reason for a shower that keeps running. These internal parts use rubber washers, O-rings, springs, and plastic stems to allow water mixing and on/off control inside the valve body. Over years of use, these rubber parts wear down and corrode.

Small tears in the rubber seals and seats allow water to leak through the closed valve. Replacing them restores a watertight seal so water stops as soon as you turn the shower off.

Removing and Replacing Cartridge Should Fix

Fortunately, shower cartridges are designed for easy replacement by homeowners. Start by shutting off the water supply lines and relieving pressure. Pry off the handle trim plate and unscrew the retaining nut holding the cartridge in.

Many pull directly out, while others have a release tab or small threaded piece to unscrew. Take the old cartridge to the hardware store to match a replacement. Slide in the new cartridge, reinstall the trim, and test the shower.

Consider Replacing with Thermostatic Valve

For ultimate reliability and safety, consider upgrading to a thermostatic shower valve when replacing the cartridge. These valves automatically regulate water temperature and prevent sudden scalding temperature spikes.

They have a more sophisticated design that balances hot and cold flow through an internal thermostat. This provides stable temps with the added benefit of positive water shutoff when closed.

Limit Switch Problems

Many public or hotel showers have a small switch installed inline with the shower valve to automatically shut off the water after a set time. If you suddenly find your shower running indefinitely, the limit switch may need adjustment or replacement.

Switch Turns Off Shower After Set Time

These limit switches are designed to end showers after the set duration as a way to prevent long showers and reduce hot water usage in commercial buildings. The timer switch installs between the shower pipe and valve body.

An internal spring pushes a flow restriction plate over the inlet holes after the adjustable pre-set time, cutting off water flow even if the main valve is still open.

Switch May be Broken or Need Adjustment

If your limit switch is malfunctioning, check that it's not simply set to the shortest duration. Try resetting the time dial to a longer shower setting. The time plate or spring inside can also get stuck or corroded so the switch fails to activate in time.

Turning the water on and off rapidly a few times can often get the switch unstuck. If not, replacing the limit switch restores proper automatic shutoff functionality.

Shower Diverter Repairs

The diverter inside your shower's tub spout redirects water flow between the tub faucet and the shower head. When engaged, the diverter blocks the spout outlet and sends all water to the showerhead above.

If debris causes the diverter to get stuck open, water will keep streaming out the tub faucet indefinitely even after you turn the shower off. Some simple cleaning can usually remedy diverter issues.

Diverter Gate Can Get Stuck Open to Tub Spout

Most tub spouts have a flip open gate inside that seals off the spout opening when you pull the diverter to engage the shower. After the diverter is turned off, the gate then closes and directs flow back down to the tub faucet.

If small rubber pieces or mineral build up get lodged in the gate, it can prevent it from sealing fully. This causes the spout to dribble constantly or act as if the diverter is still engaged.

Access and Clean Diverter Gate of Debris

Start by pulling out the diverter knob and peering inside with a flashlight. Use some stiff wire or a paperclip to try loosening any debris blocking the diverter gate inside. You can also unscrew the spout, pull out the diverter, and clean the gate opening thoroughly.

Reinstall and engage the diverter back and forth rapidly to flush water through and dislodge any remaining particles. A thorough flushing and cleaning should have your diverter working properly again to stop tub water flow.

Drain Clogs Causing Backflow

A clogged shower drain can also create the illusion of a shower that refuses to turn off. As you shower, the water backs up and spills over rather than fully draining. The standing water remains even after turning the shower off.

Clogged Drains Can Back Up Water Into Shower

Shower drains inevitably catch loose hair, soap film, and debris. Over time, this gunk accumulates and slowly constricts water flow down the drain. Once significantly clogged, water can seep back up the drain and overflow.

Make sure any standing water isn't simply from poor drainage before you tear into shower parts. Check the drain cover and housing for any wads of hair or grime that could be blocking flow.

Remove Hair and Debris From Shower Drain

Use needle nose pliers to extract hair and gobs of buildup from the drain. A bent wire hanger also works to fish out clogs. You may need to remove the drain cover for full access.

Pouring boiling water or baking soda and vinegar solutions can help dissolve soap scum. Use a drain snake to reach deeper blockages that require more force to dislodge.

Use a Drain Snake to Clear Deeper Clogs

For stubborn clogs beyond the drain cover, use a drain auger or snake. Feed the flexible steel cable down the drain opening and twist it to root out matted debris and hair. Slowly pull the snake out as the barbed end hooks the clog, then sweep it away.

Shower plungers are also effective by creating pressure waves to loosen and purge clogs. Repeat plunging and snaking until all standing water disappears promptly down the drain.

Checking Plumbing Issues

Leaks or damage in the home's plumbing pipes going to the shower can appear as an issue with water failing to fully shut off. Inspect around water connections for any signs of leakage.

Pipe Leaks or Cracks Can Prevent Proper Shut-Off

Cracked or worn pipes leading to and from the shower valve can allow water to leak out even when the valve is closed. The small leaks go unnoticed until shutting the valve fails to stop flow.

Check under bathroom sinks and around the shower area for water stains or moisture. Running water pipes inside walls makes it hard to pinpoint leaks. You may need to enlist a plumber's leak detection tools.

Assess Pipes for Corrosion and Leak Points

Inspect any pipes you can view closely for moisture, rust, and green corrosion usually signaling a leak. Valves buried in walls can leak and go unseen for some time. Ultimately, severely leaking plumbing may need full replacement.

A plumber can use specialized tools to confirm and locate hidden shower leaks you can't reach. If pipes are too deteriorated, repiping the shower lines may be required.

Preventing Future Shower Problems

These repairs should get your shower fully turning off again. But you can take steps to prevent annoying shower issues going forward.

Install Thermostatic Valve for Optimal Temp Control

Replacing the standard shower cartridge with a thermostatic valve provides more sophisticated shower control. The valve balances hot and cold flow to deliver a constant, safe shower temperature.

The advanced design incorporates a bimetallic or wax thermostat that reacts to temperature changes. This maintains steady output and prevents scalding spikes.

Replace Seals and Washers When Replacing Cartridge

When you do replace the shower cartridge, swap out all the rubber seals and washers at the same time. Use lubricating grease on the rubber O-rings and seals during reinstallation. This prevents them from sticking and extends the lifespan.

Check and Adjust Limit Switch Regularly

If you have a limit switch installed, periodically check that it's engaging properly and switch duration hasn't elapsed. Give the time dial an occasional turn to keep the spring and time plate moving freely.

Keep Drains Clear of Hair and Soap Buildup

Prevent clogged shower drains by catching hair with a drain cover and regularly pouring hot water mixed with liquid drain cleaner. Use a drain snake monthly to keep passages clear of buildup before major clogs occur.

When To Call A Plumber

Repairing a shower that won't turn off is a project many DIYers can tackle. But if your attempts to diagnose the problem and fix common issues don't resolve the matter, it's best to call in a professional.

If You Can't Diagnose the Problem

With complex plumbing systems behind walls, you may struggle to pinpoint why water won't fully stop. Rather than endlessly replacing parts hoping to get lucky, a plumber has the expertise to diagnose faults.

For Major Shower Valve Replacement

Attempting to replace old shower valves in tight, enclosed wall spaces often requires cutting away tile and walls. A plumber has specialized tools that simplify removal and installation without major demolition.

When Re-Piping Required to Fix Leaks

If pipes are too corroded and leaking beyond small repairs, a full re-pipe is needed. This large project is best left to professionals with the skills to remove old pipes and rerun new supply lines properly.

For Access Issues in Tight Spaces

Plumbers are accustomed to working in cramped areas most DIYers can't reach. Valves tucked away behind pipes or in crawlspaces are no match for their expertise navigating tight conditions.

While annoying, a shower that fails to turn off completely is one of the more straightforward home plumbing issues to address. Methodically checking the various components controlling water flow will reveal the problem source in most cases.

Replacing a faulty cartridge or valve, cleaning stuck limit switches, and clearing clogged drains are repairs any motivated DIY homeowner can tackle. Preventing future problems comes down to proper maintenance and occasional part replacement.