How Much Does a Shower Cartridge Replacement Cost? [2025 Data]

Cost Factors for Replacing a Shower Cartridge

The factors that go into replacing a shower cartridge are type, project complexity, labor, home warranty, and location.

Cartridge Type 

There are three types of shower cartridges that are compatible with different types of bathtub and shower faucets. In addition to choosing the right type of cartridge, you’ll need one that’s compatible with your shower brand. Cartridges are usually not interchangeable across brands, but your manufacturer may have a warranty for theirs.

• Single-handle faucet cartridge: A single-handle faucet cartridge costs $10 to $65. It is used on showers that are controlled by a single level or handle.

• Dual-handle faucet cartridge: Dual-handle faucet cartridges cost $15 to $65. They are used on showers with two different handles (one for hot and one for cold water).

• Diverter cartridge: Diverter shower cartridges cost $10 to $130. This type of cartridge is used in a tub-shower combo, where water can be diverted to the tub spout or showerhead. 

Project Complexity

The more work your contractor has to do, the more they’ll charge. So, if you have an older home with the original shower cartridge, it might require more time and patience to ensure the entire cartridge comes out and no pieces remain. Or, depending on your home’s design, your plumber might have to cut through the drywall on the other side of your shower’s wall to get to it. 

After surveying your problem, they might also notice that you need an entirely new valve system. While curveballs like these aren’t anything new to a pro, they will cost you more.

Labor Cost

Pros can charge anywhere from $75 to $160 per hour. Some plumbers will also charge a survey fee to assess the situation before starting.

Home Warranty

Depending on your home warranty, they might cover plumbing services due to wear and tear from everyday usage.

Location 

Your location also plays a part in how much you should expect to pay for a replacement cartridge. Here are a few examples of what homeowners in different regions across the U.S. pay for this service:

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro: Cost to Replace a Shower Cartridge

The bulk of the price that plumbers charge when replacing a shower cartridge is labor cost. So, if you can get the necessary tools to do the job yourself, you can save between $75 and $160 per hour in labor fees. 

To DIY your shower cartridge replacement, it’ll cost between $50 and $120. This price includes a replacement cartridge, screwdriver, cartridge tool, pliers, silicone caulk, and plumber’s grease. Keep in mind that the tools you’ll need will depend on your cartridge brand and model. 

You’ll also need to factor in the time and energy that you’ll use to complete this project. 

If you try to rush the process, you can cause your shower cartridge to break into little pieces. Then you’ll need to replace the entire valve, which will cost you more money. If you don’t have the time to DIY this project, consider hiring an affordable plumber near you.

Signs You Should Replace Your Shower Cartridge 

If left unmitigated, a broken shower cartridge can cause rust and erosion inside the shower valve, damaging the internal components. This eventually leads to faucet handles that are difficult to turn and water with a temperature you can’t quite dial in. Luckily, most shower cartridges last 10 to 30 years, and there will be signs if one starts to fail:

• Your showerhead constantly drips, even when the shower is off.

• Your shower has sudden temperature fluctuations.

• The water pressure increases when you try to adjust the temperature.

• Your faucet handle gets stuck in one position.

• Your cartridge or shower valve is nearing the end of its expected lifespan.

If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to call your plumber.

Ways to Save on Shower Cartridge Replacement Costs 

If you’re looking to tighten your budget, there are a few ways you can save on the cost of replacing a shower cartridge:

• Check the warranty: Most of the time, you’ll need to replace the exact shower cartridge with the same brand and model—so you can’t necessarily opt for a less expensive one. That said, take a look at your warranty before buying a replacement. Some manufacturers provide a lifetime warranty, meaning you may only need to pay for the labor.

• DIY the replacement: If you have plumbing experience, a shower cartridge replacement is relatively straightforward. This can save you on labor costs, but unless you actually know what you’re doing, leave this one to the pros to avoid extra costs to correct mistakes.

• Do multiple jobs at once: Shower cartridge replacement is a small job, and you may have to pay a flat minimum rate for your plumber's visit. Consider tackling multiple smaller jobs during one visit to get the best value.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to costquotes@angi.com. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.