Upgrading a Leaky Shower Valve and Controlling High Water Pressure in Maryville

Plumbing | Maryville | Plumbing in Maryville

Customer Story: A Persistent Shower Leak

A homeowner in Maryville reached out when their shower wouldn’t stop dripping—not even after swapping out the shower head. Water kept seeping from behind the handle, and simple fixes weren’t enough. Frustrated with the constant drip and the prospect of rising water bills, they called in HEP for help.

How HEP Technicians Handled It

When the HEP technician arrived, they inspected the internal cartridge and cleaned the valve body, hoping to stop the leak. Despite multiple attempts, the water continued to trickle through. Further testing revealed unusually high water pressure—enough to wear out the valve’s internal components over time. To protect the plumbing and ensure a watertight fixture, the plan was to install:

A new single-handle brushed nickel tub and shower faucet (with matching head and spout)
A dedicated pressure regulating valve on the main supply line
An access panel for future maintenance

First, a neat 14″×14″ opening was cut in the ceiling above the water line, allowing space for the new regulator. Incoming copper piping received a modern brass pressure regulator to bring pressure down to safe levels. Next, the old CPVC feeds to the shower valve were capped off, and new push-to-connect fittings ensured a leak-proof transition to the fresh fixture. Once the faucet assembly was in place, an access panel was fitted so that the homeowner can easily reach the plumbing if any further adjustments are ever needed.

The result? A smooth-operating shower with balanced water pressure and no more unwelcome drips.

The upgraded single-handle valve offers clear hot/cold markings and a solid, modern finish. Professional installation means the handle glides smoothly and seals tightly after each use.

Alongside the valve, a new handheld shower head and spout complete the fresh look. Clean grout lines and polished fixtures make daily showers feel spa-like.

Behind the scenes, the brass pressure regulator protects the entire plumbing system from excessive force. Proper pipe supports and secure fittings keep everything aligned for long-term reliability.

A carefully cut opening exposes the PEX line and new brass valve before the wall is closed up. This extra access makes any future work quick and non-intrusive.

Once the plumbing was set, a flush-mount access panel covered the cut—blending in with the ceiling while still allowing easy entry for inspections or tweaks down the road.

Helpful Tips for Homeowners

Monitor water pressure: Too high can wear out fixtures and cause leaks. A home pressure gauge can alert you before damage occurs.
Install access panels: If you have hidden valves or connections, panels prevent unnecessary wall damage during repairs.
Choose modern fittings: PEX and push-to-connect fittings speed up service calls and reduce leak risks compared to older materials.
Schedule routine inspections: Annual check-ups by a qualified plumber help catch small issues before they become costly emergencies.
Trust experienced technicians: Professional work ensures fixtures are installed to code and backed by warranty, giving you peace of mind.

By combining the right equipment with skilled craftsmanship, HEP technicians keep Maryville homes running smoothly—one leak-free shower at a time.