The valve controls the flow of water into the spout, whereas the spout controls the flow of water out of the faucet. Clean the Showerhead. 8. You actually dont need to remove the screw completely. The third is optional (some kind of screw extractor) but can certainly make the final step easier. If the clip is corroded, use WD-40 on it to loosen it up. From here, you can insert your new valve cartridge, which should be exactly the same as the previous one. It's either very corroded or your particular model could require a special removal tool that a plumber will have on hand. 2 Take the shower handle off. Perhaps you can clamp on to something below? Also, check for signs of damage like cracked seals or worn-out parts. Copyright 2023 This Old House Ventures, LLC. Remove the Faucet Handle: Unscrew the retaining ring at the top of the faucet handle and pull it out. This means that you no longer have the option to either user the showerhead or the bathtub. Some pull-out shower faucet handles (also called pull-push shower faucet handles) can slowly become harder to use over time. This gives you access to the screw. Wall Diverter Stems 5-Step Guide to Fix Shower Valve Leaking Step 1: Expose the inner workings of the shower valve Remove the shower handles Look for any screws affixing the handles to the rest of the assembly. 13. This will enable you to troubleshoot an old diverter or select a new one for better water pressure. Put on your protective eyewear (better safe than sorry). Keep turning the handle clockwise. Remove the screw holding the handle in place, then pull the handle free of the valve stem. Use it to grip the valve nut as the base of the stem. Apply a new layer of Teflon tape on the threads and thread the spout on the pipe. You will need a bit of flexibility to do this, especially if you have no idea how the inside of a bathtub spout looks like. I researched the internet and read taht it could be the rubber washer behind the valve stem, and to replace that. Before cutting the wall open to replace the faucet so try more penetrating oil and wiggling & pulling first. The length of the supply pipe. Get the screw off and then the diverter handle. This article has been viewed 249,388 times. How to Fix a Thermostatic Shower Mixer valve. Try to pull and push the shower diverter up and down after the 30 minutes. Turn the water on to pull the diverter up and down to seat it. Double-check the valve size and model to make sure it matches your old cartridge. 2. As you replace your shower valve, work carefully to make sure you don't forget any important details. This makes it difficult to make even the simplest repairs, like changing out a washer. If the faucet handle is still stuck, find the set screw and use an Allen wrench to . https://youtu.be/k8Aiem2kOgI What you need Tools 1/8" Hex Key Available for sale on Home Depot Adjustable Wrench Available for sale on Amazon Video Overview Step 1 How to Fix a Thermostatic Shower Mixer valve Plumber's grease is also recommended by Leak Geeks. Since then, he has risen through the ranks into positions of increasing authority. There are more complex shower diverter systems that allow for water to be directed to more than one showerhead or hand held shower heads at the same time. Sometimes you are better off cutting out some tile and replacing the valve though. Often, this type of spout will also be caulked to the bathroom wall. There are 2 things that you really need to be careful about while buying a new bathtub faucet. To be safe, plug off the bathtub drain so as not lose the screw down the drain. Using needlenose pliers, remove the valve clip and pull the valve out of the wall. Test the water to see if the hot and cold are in the correct position. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. 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. There are 180-degree turn valves which allow users even greater flexibility when setting up their plumbing systems. The type of spout Buy a bathtub spout that looks like your old spout in design. I no longer have the documentation or packaging. Clogs occur when mineral deposits or debris build up in the diverter valve; this is especially common if your home has hard water. If there are no shutoff valves behind the wall, you will need to locate and turn off water to the entire home and then open a fixture to relieve the pressure and drain the water. Remove the handle screw, then the handle. Sometimes there are easy answers. Why are there two valves to shut off if there's only one water line? Lets Get You Unstuck. 10. Use an old toothbrush and wooden pick to clean out debris. Attach a pressure gauge to a spigot to determine house the pressure. If required, twist the screws with a wrench. You can do this in a couple of different ways. Brush pipe-thread sealant onto the threaded end of the new stem seat.9. 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. Purchase a faucet puller if all else fails. Now use pliers to turn the cartridge until it comes out slowly. 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. Finish by screwing the trim plate and shower handle back in place. Dash to the garage and grab a can of your favorite lubricating oil. In order for rust to take place, water and oxygen have to be present on an iron surface. In short, by manipulating the diverter, you can switch between directing water to your showerhead, hand shower, or bathtub spout. If they are not, it simply means the cartridge needs to be rotated. WD40 will do nothing. Dave Jones is a Professional Plumber and the Midwest Regional Vice President at Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Slide the small spacer washer off of the shaft and set it aside with the retainer clip. For more tips, including how to keep small parts from falling own the drain, keep reading! Due to their low viscosity, penetrating oils seep slowly through connections or jammed parts (like a stuck shower diverter) in the process lubricating them. If it feels less resistant than earlier, spray more penetrating oil and wait for another 15 minutes. Push the shower diverter knob down and pull it up again. It's also a good idea to spray it with WD 40. If the pressure is ok replace the spout. Dave holds Master Plumber Licenses in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia. Repeat the previous eight steps to install new seats and stems onto the diverter and cold-water faucet handle. A nearly zero cost fix of a stuck shower valve. [11] 10. Just loosen it and slide the spout out. Use a handle puller if it's stuck. Any Alternative? Got Plumbing Questions? Remove the screw underneath the plate by turning it counterclockwise. Dont be too aggressive as you do not want to file the body of the spout. The vinegar will eat away at the buildup, clearing the showerhead for enhanced water flow. Turn the water halfway on and then pull the knob on the diverter pin. By hand, unscrew and remove the escutcheon to expose the stem. If your shower valve is damaged beyond repair, you may need to replace it to prevent leaks. Want to tackle more plumbing projects? If you use a bathtub-shower-combo then you definitely have a shower diverter on your bathtub spout. You have to be careful so that you get the right tension on the spout without damaging it, and also ensure that the spout orientation is right. Turn off the water at the water main or wherever it enters the house. By hand, unscrew and remove the escutcheon to expose the stem.6. Product Features & Benefits. Use a screwdriver to pry off the valve handle cap if one exists, then remove the screws holding together the handle and the faucet stem. Something to consider: For those with an existing two-tap setup, a three-valve diverter system is the way to go. No matter which type of shower diverter you have, they all work by blocking off one outlet while opening another when activated by turning the handle or knob in different directions. Snap the index covers back onto the handles.15. It is a fantastic design that allows you to have a bathtub as a shower cubicle especially for people with small bathrooms. Turn off your water supply valve to prevent any water damage while you're making the repair. This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey fixes a faulty shower valve with new valve stems and seats. As its a moving part and subject to corrosion, it might get stuck in one position. 6. 2 Pull the stop tube straight out, sliding it off of the cartridge. 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. 1 Cover the shower drain with a washcloth. If you can't find fixture shutoff valves, then you may need to shut off the water to the entire house. If you're unsure or have questions about the specific type, contact a plumber or home repairman. Measure the length of the supply line from the wall to the end. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. In 1992, Jones joined Roto-Rooter as a drain service technician at the age of 18. Some valve sets are secured with a retainer nut that holds them in place. You can purchase caulk online or from most home improvement stores. Use pliers or a deep-socket wrench to gently turn the stem counterclockwise. If the knob is too stuck you might want to wait for about 15 to 30 minutes. Repeat the previous eight steps to install new seats and stems onto the diverter and cold-water faucet handle.12. The water stops are typically found to the right and left of the valve cartridge. Turn off the water at the fixture shutoff valves or at your home's main valve. Secure the plastic bag to the spout using a rubber band. With some basic maintenance, it will last many more years. I have a bathtub drip that's getting worse. There are 2 common types of bathtub spouts. Push it back down and repeat this process until you can feel a clean opening and closing. Usually, the water stops will have flat head screw heads that let you turn them on and off. 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. 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. 1. This will lock the jaws onto the handle. Bring the vinegar with you inside the bathtub and push the spout inside the vinegar so that most it (and especially the shower diverter knob) is immersed in the vinegar. So . Try putting a block of wood flat on the surface of the shower in between you and the cartridge. Next, separate the escutcheon from your shower wall, then remove it. If you choose to repair the old one, what you need to do is to replace the washer and screw. Sometimes the best wat to fix a sticky shower diverter is to soak the whole assembly in a bowl of vinegar. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'plumbingnav_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_9',195,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-plumbingnav_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');Make sure that whatever style of diverter you choose matches up with your existing plumbing fixtures and shower faucet. Once you have these materials, follow these steps: 1. Key Takeaway: A shower diverter is a valve that controls the flow of water between two outlets, such as a showerhead and bathtub spout. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers to pry the black rubber washer loose. After the 12 hours, clean every part of the spout with a brush or emery cloth so that the shower diverter starts working like a new one. Caulk it in place if necessary. Amazon and Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com or its affiliates. A penetrating oil like WD-40 works magic in loosen tight connections as well as preventing rust and thats why you will never miss it in any garage. Manage Settings Step 5: Replace The Shower Arm. This will make them look new again. 11. Reply. You'll be able to find the manufacturer and model of the set you currently have, as well as tips for replacing it. See video and video description on YouTube for details. By hand, unscrew and remove the escutcheon to expose the stem. The diverter valve diverts water from one path to another path. Ask This Old House solves the steady stream of home improvement problems faced by our viewersand we make house calls! If youre installing a new shower system, its important to consider how many fixtures you will need. Hard water is a challenge for many plumbing fixtures, including diverters. Key Takeaway: Maintaining a shower diverter regularly is key to avoiding costly repairs, so its important to clean and check for signs of damage such as cracked seals or worn-out parts. Choose a size and copy the code below to embed this guide as a small widget on your site / forum. First, clean the nut with a rag, then apply some lubricant to loosen the stuck faucet nut. A clogged or stuck valve can result in high pressure in the engine, head gasket issues, leaky oil, whistling, moisture in the engine, or sensor problems. Shower trim plates are usually known as Escutcheon trim plates, in case you need to ask a home repair professional about your specific model. Free shipping for many products! There are 2 handles which need to be removed: the bottom controls the temperature [came off easily - minor lime deposits visible on the inside] and a smaller top knob which toggles water flow from the main shower head to a hand-held unit. Replace the clip that holds the cartridge in. There are many things that can cause a shower valve to become stuck in place. I go through repairing, cleaning, maintaining shower valves. My shower is doing exactly what he first stated. If its leaking, you will need to replace it. This is easier than having separate handles for each outlet and great for those looking for convenience without too much complexity. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. The substances embed on the groove inside the spout thereby restricting the free up and down movement of the diverter causing it jam. 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Found to the end next, separate the escutcheon to expose the stem counterclockwise the retainer clip pressure. The garage and grab a can of your favorite lubricating oil the specific type contact!