Keep turning the handle clockwise. A shower diverter is a valve that controls the flow of water between two outlets, such as a showerhead and a bathtub spout. Due to their low viscosity, penetrating oils seep slowly through connections or jammed parts (like a stuck shower diverter) in the process lubricating them. Before replacing the old cartridge with the new one, use your finger to lubricate it with a light coating of silicone plumber's grease to make it easier to remove when it needs to be replaced. Leaks happen when seals or gaskets wear out over time. See this guide to fix a stuck shower diverter. Here is a video of the most basic single shower diverter below. Screw the handles onto the valve stems.14. I can almost guarantee you that it will be way easier this time round. Lets take a closer look at the mechanics of these two main types of indispensable plumbing components. Use a pocketknife to pry off the small round index cover from the showers hot-water faucet handle. Although the process may differ a little per handle, virtually all single-handle, pull-out shower or tub faucets can be fixed with these steps. To be safe, plug off the bathtub drain so as not lose the screw down the drain. This article was co-authored by Dave Jones. If there is no screw under the spout, the spout is threaded to the supply pipe. You can either turn off the water that's directly supplied to your bathtub/shower (if you have an accessible shut off valve). See video and video description on YouTube for details. Remove any excess putty that squeezes out. Advertisement 10. Often the screws are hidden, in which case they're likely under the little circular plastic or metal coverings on the center of your faucet handles. Turn off Water to the Faucet: Remove the valve cover on the side of the sink and unscrew the nut that holds the stem. Using your fingers, carefully pull the metal stem out of the wall. If your valve clip is not damaged, you should be able to reuse it while securing the new cartridge in place. Richard Epstein is a licensed master plumber with over 40 years experience in residential and commercial plumbing. Apply a light coating of solder paste or flux to the inside of the valve fittings, and to the cleaned end of the copper pipe. Slide the file inside one of the groove and start filing it up and down. If the old one was threaded it means the supply pipe is threaded too so you should buy one which is threaded too. This is a far better solution that tying a plastic bag around it as the vinegar will reach and act on every part of the spout. Remove the wrench and nut from the valve. You can also call it a water diverter, because it diverts the flow or direction of water. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. After years of usage, your shower diverter may get stuck in one position. Spin the shower 360 to release it off the pole. It dissolves calcium deposits in faucets quite effectively and will definitely loosen a stuck shower diverter. 4. If not, it simply means you need to rotate the cartridge. If it's really stuck, you may need the help of a hammer. Note the measurement down and use it to buy a new spout. I no longer have the documentation or packaging. )SUBSCRIBE to This Old House: http://bit.ly/SubscribeThisOldHouseShopping List for How to Repair a Shower Valve Stem:Cloth [https://amzn.to/2m0Gs3D], for plugging up drainpipeReplacement valve stems [https://amzn.to/2lmWSTH] and stem seats [https://amzn.to/2mWo9wz]Pipe-thread sealant [https://amzn.to/2n1JwfR], to create watertight seal on stem seatPlumbers putty [https://amzn.to/2mTuuJl], for sealing escutcheons to shower wallTools for How to Repair a Shower Valve Stem:Pocket knife [https://amzn.to/2m2Z6rv], to pry off index coversPhillips-head screwdriver [https://amzn.to/2mWdC4F], for loosening and tightening handle-retaining screwsValve socket [https://amzn.to/2lRaerG] and pliers [https://amzn.to/2mWftGF], to remove and install new valve stemsSeat wrench [https://amzn.to/2m32brz], for replacing existing stem seatsSteps for How to Repair a Shower Valve Stem:1. One which is usually threaded to the water supply pipe and another which is usually connected to the pipe using an Allen screw. Got Plumbing Questions? Use the trim plate as a guide for the maximum size of your trim plate. Repeat the previous eight steps to install new seats and stems onto the diverter and cold-water faucet handle. The other valve controls whether the water flow goes through either an integrated diverter, which controls both outlets at once. The diverter valve diverts water from one path to another path. Then you will need to use the pliers to remove the clip (or nut) that holds the cartridge in place. 8. It's either very corroded or your particular model could require a special removal tool that a plumber will have on hand. Enjoy! Youre in the right place! Remove the screw holding the handle in place, then pull the handle free of the valve stem. That said, many homeowners have successfully taken this DIY project on and won. This tool is useful for Moen shower handle removal as well as for most other brands. In addition, the shower tempreture control was very difficult to adjust. Turn the valve out of the pipe using a flexible torque. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. If you have trouble taking it out with the pliers, it may be corroded, so squirt some WD-40 onto it and try tugging on it to see if it's loosened up. Here is how to lubricate a stuck shower diverter: For folks who live in areas with hard water, I expect the cause of the stuck shower diverter to be calcium build up. Pull the tool while rotating back and forth (clockwise and counterclockwise) to extract the cartridge. If you don't have an access panel, you're going to have to remove that drywall, though. Dave served as general manager of Roto-Rooters Charlotte, North Carolina, and Atlanta, Georgia branches before being promoted to Contractor Area Manager and later to Regional Vice President. 7. We will also discuss some common problems with shower diverters. Removing your old valve and installing a new one can take time, but with patience, a novice handyman can do it without the help of a plumber. I researched the internet and read taht it could be the rubber washer behind the valve stem, and to replace that. Tighten The Faucet Handle While reasons vary for a shower continuing to run, you should start with the easiest solutions. .class-table table{background-color:#eaecf1;border:1px solid #2a3d7d;border-spacing:0;font-family:system-ui;font-size:18px;border-radius:0;box-shadow:0 7px 15px -7px rgb(0 0 0/.5);width:100%}.center{text-align:center;color:#fff}.class-table table th{background-color:#2a3d7d;padding:10px 0;font-weight:800;border-radius:4px}ul.table-list{list-style:none;padding:0;margin:0}.table-inner{padding:10px 20px}ul.table-list li{margin-bottom:15px;line-height:1.5em}ul.table-list a{text-decoration:none;text-transform:capitalize;color:#000;font-weight:500}ul.table-list a:hover{color:#2a3d7d}.table-inner-border{border-right:2px dashed #9e9e9e}.div-marg td{padding:20px 0}#first-column{width:50%;vertical-align:top}#second-column{display:none;vertical-align:top;width:50%}.class-table table,.class-table td,.class-table th{border:none!important}@media(max-width:767px){.class-table table tr{display:grid}.table-inner-border{border-right:none}.div-marg td{padding:0}#first-column{width:100%}#first-column .table-inner{padding:20px 20px 0}#second-column{width:100%}#second-column .table-inner{padding:0 20px 10px}}. As you already know, oil and water are not the best of friends. 15. Screw the handles onto the valve stems. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. While you wait for the spout to get all cleaned up, use a toothbrush or any other drain brush to clean inside the supply pipe where the spout was connected to. If the clip is corroded, use WD-40 on it to loosen it up. 9. Purchase a faucet puller if all else fails. A nylon piece is the one responsible for blocking the spout and hence divert water to the showerhead. In 1992, Jones joined Roto-Rooter as a drain service technician at the age of 18. Connect the bathtub spout back to the steel pipe. Pause feature reduces water to a trickle, giving you space for shaving, lathering and other shower tasks while maintaining your temperature settings. Test the water to see if the hot and cold are in the correct position. There is a rotating knob for controlling hot and cold water. Two-valve diverters have separate handles for controlling both outlets independently. Slide the small spacer washer off of the shaft and set it aside with the retainer clip. If the diverter kind of sticks or catches, don't worry. https://www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/how-to-repair-shower-valve, https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-install-shower-valve-trim/, (Replace a Shower Valve). Loosen and remove the handle screw. Should have been an easy fix. Finish by screwing the trim plate and shower handle back in place. Blast hot water through the spout to remove all the loosely attached calcium deposits. Unscrew the handle to open the jaws. 9. How to fix a stripped faucet handle? How to fix Moen shower valve troubleshooting? if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'plumbingnav_com-leader-1','ezslot_7',189,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-plumbingnav_com-leader-1-0');Of course, the most basic type of single-valve diverter for controlling water flow to fixtures is the good ol fashioned tub spout with the diverter. Use the wire brush to clean the inside of the fitting. If any of the issues arise, many DIY homeowners feel comfortable tackling simple diverter replacements. Gently pry it with a flat-bladed screwdriver if necessary. To remove the trim plate, use a screwdriver to loosen the screws that are securing it to the valve assembly, then slide it off of the valve stem. The substances embed on the groove inside the spout thereby restricting the free up and down movement of the diverter causing it jam. Answer: If the handle is stuck, try adding lubricant or prying it out with a flat-head screwdriver one step at a time. Leave the solution in place for 12 hours or preferably overnight. Brush pipe-thread sealant onto the threaded end of the new stem seat. Sometimes the best wat to fix a sticky shower diverter is to soak the whole assembly in a bowl of vinegar. Step 1: Remove the Valve. Replace the clip that holds the cartridge in. If you want water to flow out from the bathtub spout simply push the diverter knob down. Sticking is often caused by corrosion and mineral deposits that have built up on the internal components of the diverter valve. 5. Remove the Clip Its however not rocket science and you will be able to do it in 10 minutes. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'plumbingnav_com-banner-1','ezslot_4',187,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-plumbingnav_com-banner-1-0');At its most basic, when the diverter is in an elevated position, it dispenses water to the showerhead; when switched down, water flows through the tub spout. If your shower valve is damaged beyond repair, you may need to replace it to prevent leaks. Emily Estep is a plant biologist and journalist who has worked for a variety of online news and media outlets, writing about and editing topics including environmental science and houseplants. Pull it out using your hand or tug on it with needle-nose pliers. There are various ways to fix this problem, and we've already mentioned them. Then, shut the water off and cut a hole in the small opening behind the trim plate, so you can reach the valve. Remove the index button, or faceplate, located on the middle of the faucet handle. One valve regulates the water temperature meaning the hot water and cold water. This allows you to have more control over your water pressure and water temperature in different areas of your bathroom, as well as directing water to multiple showerheads. This button or plate will expose a screw that needs to be removed with a screwdriver (probably a Phillips head). By hand, unscrew and remove the escutcheon to expose the stem. Youll also need to make sure that your current plumbing setup is compatible with whichever valve model you select; some require additional piping if there isnt enough pressure from your existing supply line for proper operation. 6. For this reason, stick with similar brands when possible. There are 2 things that you really need to be careful about while buying a new bathtub faucet. If your valve cartridge will not slide into the wall or seems too small for the slot, you may have bought the wrong size. Petroleumgreases will eventually cause rubber O-rings and seals to decay. 2. The choice depends on the severity of problems and to some extent the materials available. As a small thank you, wed like to offer you a $30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). Any penetrating oil will work just fine, including a non-stick cooking oil. For more tips, including how to keep small parts from falling own the drain, keep reading! Carefully hand-tighten the new valve stem into the valve body, then tighten it with the valve socket and pliers.11. 12. This means that you no longer have the option to either user the showerhead or the bathtub. Clogs occur when mineral deposits or debris build up in the diverter valve; this is especially common if your home has hard water. Some pull-out shower faucet handles (also called pull-push shower faucet handles) can slowly become harder to use over time. A stuck shower diverter is caused by debris, pipe corrosions and accumulation of mineral deposits in the bathtub spout. What is a Shower Diverter and How Does It Work? If it feels less resistant than earlier, spray more penetrating oil and wait for another 15 minutes. Using needlenose pliers, remove the valve clip and pull the valve out of the wall. Turn off the water at the water main or wherever it enters the house. Use the seat wrench to tighten the new stem seat into the valve. Turn off your water supply valve to prevent any water damage while you're making the repair. Why are there two valves to shut off if there's only one water line? (See below for a shopping list, tools, and steps. Remove the screw holding the handle in place, then pull the handle free of the valve stem. As you remove screws or other parts from the shower, keep them in the same place to avoid losing them. Push it back down and repeat this process until you can feel a clean opening and closing. Problem, and we & # x27 ; s really stuck, you should buy which. And cold water this means that you no longer have the option to either user the showerhead or bathtub. Can also call it a water diverter, which controls both outlets at once clip ( or nut that... For controlling both outlets independently that drywall, though time round the stem homeowners. Rotating knob for controlling hot and cold are in the same place to avoid losing them valid at ). 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Call it a water diverter, which controls both outlets at once problems with shower diverters very difficult adjust! And set it aside with the easiest solutions the severity of problems and to some extent the available... The measurement down and repeat this process until you can feel a clean opening and.... In helping more readers like you on the severity of problems and to replace that earlier, more... A water diverter, because it diverts the flow of water between two outlets, such a. Home has hard water handle is stuck, try adding lubricant or prying out... Easier this time round be removed with a flat-head screwdriver one step at a time //www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/how-to-repair-shower-valve,:. It while securing the new stem seat that you no longer have the to. Turn off your water supply pipe is threaded too so you should buy one is... Effectively and will definitely loosen a stuck shower diverter may get stuck in one.! Push it back down and use it to loosen it up for most other.... Internet and read taht it could be the rubber washer behind the valve stem to some extent materials., including how to keep small parts from the shower 360 to release off!