We all love a good shower — until something starts to leak, rattle, or go stone cold without warning. The truth is, showers are one of the most used (and abused) parts of any bathroom, and like any hardworking fixture, parts wear out over time.
At Bathroom Spare Parts, we help customers repair showers every single day. From fixing a dripping head to replacing a temperamental thermostatic cartridge, we’ve seen it all.
Here’s our expert list of the 10 most common shower spare parts, what they do, how to know when they’re failing — and when to replace them.
1. Shower Hose
🔧 What it is:
The flexible tube that connects your handset to the valve or wall outlet.
⚠️ When to replace it:
It’s leaking, bulging, or split
Water pressure seems reduced
It’s kinked or clogged with limescale
💡 Pro tip: Upgrade to an anti-twist or metal-reinforced hose for longer life.
2. Shower Head / Handset
🔧 What it is:
The part you hold — controls water spray.
⚠️ When to replace it:
Water jets are blocked
It’s cracked or leaking
You want better spray patterns or water-saving features
Many customers don’t realise a quick handset swap can massively improve the feel of their shower, especially if their old one is clogged or cheap.
3. Thermostatic Cartridge
🔧 What it is:
Controls the water temperature — mixes hot and cold reliably.
⚠️ When to replace it:
Water keeps going hot then cold
Temperature won’t adjust
You get scalded or frozen randomly
We stock thermostatic cartridges for brands like Ideal Standard, Grohe, Hansgrohe, Bristan, Crosswater, and more. If you’re unsure which one you need, just send us a photo — we’ll match it.
4. Flow Cartridge / Control Cartridge
🔧 What it is:
Regulates the water flow (pressure) — often used alongside the thermostatic part.
⚠️ When to replace it:
Handle turns but no water comes out
Water pressure is weak
Valve won’t shut off completely
Don’t confuse this with the temperature cartridge — they often look similar but do very different jobs.
5. Diverter Valve
🔧 What it is:
Sends water to different outlets (e.g., from bath spout to overhead shower or handset).
⚠️ When to replace it:
You can’t switch between outlets
Water flows from multiple outlets at once
The handle is stiff or jammed
Often found in dual outlet showers, bath/shower mixers, or built-in systems.
6. Shower Valve Fixing Kit / Mounting Brackets
🔧 What it is:
Holds your concealed or bar shower valve securely in the wall.
⚠️ When to replace it:
Valve feels loose or wobbly
You’re retiling or moving the position
Mounting kits are often brand-specific — get in touch and we’ll make sure it’s compatible.
7. Seals, O-Rings, and Washers
🔧 What they are:
Small rubber or silicone rings that prevent leaks at connections.
⚠️ When to replace them:
You spot dripping from behind the wall plate or valve
Water leaks from joints when the shower’s off
You're installing a new valve — always use fresh seals!
👨🔧 We always recommend having a spare set of seals on hand — they’re cheap, easy to fit, and save tons of time if something goes wrong.
8. Shower Rail Kits / Slider Brackets
🔧 What they are:
Rails that hold the shower handset, usually height-adjustable.
⚠️ When to replace them:
Handset won’t stay in place
The bracket slips or is cracked
You want to switch to a riser rail with more features
Make sure to match the rail diameter or buy a full kit.
9. Shower Outlet Elbows / Wall Connectors
🔧 What it is:
The fitting where the hose connects to the wall in concealed installations.
⚠️ When to replace it:
You’re refitting a concealed valve
The connection is loose or leaking
You're upgrading to a new finish (chrome, black, brushed brass)
These are a subtle but essential part of a tidy installation.
10. Shower Pump (in gravity-fed systems)
🔧 What it is:
Boosts water pressure in homes with low flow.
⚠️ When to replace it:
Shower starts pulsing or cutting out
You hear unusual humming or vibration
Pump doesn't start when you open the shower
Shower pumps are bigger-ticket items, but we can supply spares or help you find a direct replacement if needed.
🔄 When to Repair vs When to Replace the Whole Shower
We always advise repair first, replace second. In most cases:
A dripping shower needs a cartridge or seal
Poor pressure? Likely a hose, head, or flow control
Wonky fittings? Could just be a new rail kit or bracket
A complete shower valve replacement can cost £100–£400+ — yet the spare part is often £15–£40. That’s why customers (and plumbers) come to us first.
🙋♀️ FAQ – Shower Spares
I’m not sure what brand my shower is — can you still help?
Yes. Send us clear photos of the valve, handle, and pipework. We can often ID the brand or recommend a universal option.
Can I replace the cartridge myself?
In most cases, yes. If the water supply is isolated and you have basic tools, we include fitting tips and videos. Some concealed valves may need a pro.
What if my shower is more than 10 years old?
We carry older and discontinued parts, especially for Hansgrohe, Bristan, Ideal Standard, and other big names. If we don’t have it, we can often recommend a compatible part.
Do you sell eco shower heads?
Yes – we stock water-saving heads and flow regulators ideal for households or businesses looking to reduce bills.
🧠 Final Word: Don’t Let a Small Fault Ruin Your Shower Routine
Your shower might not need replacing — it probably just needs a little love and the right spare part.
At Bathroom Spare Parts, we stock all the essentials, from high-end thermostatic cartridges to budget-friendly hoses. Whether you’re a tradesperson or a first-time DIYer, we’re here to help.
📧 sales@bathroomspareparts.co.uk
📞 020 3940 9330
🔧 Or shop online: www.bathroomspareparts.co.uk