Repairing Guides

how to repair faucet diverter

by Flossie Little Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Repair your shower the easy way

  • Soak your faucet in vinegar to get rid of dirt and hard water residue.
  • Spray the diverter knob with cooking spray to lubricate its sticky bits.
  • Replace the shower diverter gate using a store-bought repair kit.
  • Replace the whole spout with a newer model from the hardware store.

Part of a video titled Repair Leaking Tub Spout Diverter Pull in Shower Mode
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And pulling up on the diverter. Knob once that comes off all of the parts will come loose. So we'llMoreAnd pulling up on the diverter. Knob once that comes off all of the parts will come loose. So we'll take a look inside the tub spout in a little bit but first let's check out the washer.

Full Answer

How to replace a diverter valve in a Moen faucet?

  • Unscrew the Phillips screw holding the temperature limiter and lift it off the valve housing. Not all faucets have this part.
  • Unscrew the retaining nut holding the cartridge in place using locking pliers. ...
  • Grasp the spout and wiggle and turn it as you gently lift it off the valve housing. ...

How do you replace a Price Pfister kitchen faucet diverter?

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver
  • Slip-jaw pliers
  • Deep socket kit
  • Diverter valve washer
  • Heat-proof grease

How to fix stuck bathtub faucet diverters?

This is how to proceed:

  • Look for a small (preferably clear) plastic bag.
  • Fill it with vinegar all the way to the ½ or ¾ mark.
  • 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. ...
  • Leave the solution in place for 12 hours or preferably overnight.

More items...

How to fix a diverter valve?

Install the New Valve

  • Clean the valve opening. Before installing the new shower diverter valve, clean the inside of the shower diverter valve opening using a rag dipped in vinegar.
  • Apply faucet grease on the seat washer and the 2 O-rings.
  • Push in the new valve and screw it in until hand tight.

How to tighten a diverter?

How long to soak a diverter?

How to remove a spout from a faucet?

How to secure a faucet with a cam?

Why does my kitchen sprayer stop working?

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How do you fix a faucet diverter?

1:077:29Tub Spout Diverter Repair or Replace? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBut you might be able to just take a pair of pliers. And another pair of pliers. And hold the postMoreBut you might be able to just take a pair of pliers. And another pair of pliers. And hold the post while you unscrew. This probably the second easiest way is just to take a hacksaw blade.

Can you replace a faucet diverter?

1:272:46How to Replace Bathtub / Shower Faucet Diverter - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAll right and then replace that diverter comes in a packet like this this is from Home Depot. MakeMoreAll right and then replace that diverter comes in a packet like this this is from Home Depot. Make sure that the set screw is loosened on the new one. Like so and it simply slides on.

Can a tub diverter be repaired?

It may be a simple job to put off, a damaged shower diverter wastes water and creates a bad shower experience. Repairing a shower diverter is a DIY job that you can complete in simply one day.

Why is my diverter not working?

The most common issue with a shower diverter is when water comes out of both the tub faucet and the showerhead. Check to be sure there is no residue clogging the shower diverter lever from fully lifting or lowering. If everything looks clear, the problem could be worn-out parts in the shower diverter valve.

How do you replace a kitchen sink diverter?

0:552:38Faucet Repair : How to Replace a Collar Diverter on a Faucet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBest thing to do on removing the spout is hold the spout down low twist. And pull once your spoutMoreBest thing to do on removing the spout is hold the spout down low twist. And pull once your spout comes off your collar diverter will either be on the faucet.

How long does it take to change a diverter valve?

You should call a gas safe registered engineer if you need to replace the diverter valve or service the working parts of the valve after you've diagnosed the problem. It shouldn't take more than an hour for this to be done on a boiler under eight years old, as parts should be readily available.

Can you replace a tub spout diverter?

0:283:36how to replace tub spout, change tub diverter. Easy! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIt's got this threaded piece some directions which we won't need it also comes with this littleMoreIt's got this threaded piece some directions which we won't need it also comes with this little threaded bushing to take you to three quarters if yours is three quarters.

How do you install a tub diverter repair kit?

0:593:44Replace tub spout diverter pull kit - DIY fix - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd you will notice the inner portion is basically the cut portion. And the way this goes in is youMoreAnd you will notice the inner portion is basically the cut portion. And the way this goes in is you want to make sure you put that side in and that is flush on the bottom side or inner side.

How do you replace a diverter valve?

Diverter Valve on a SpigotUnscrew the set screw. See how the spigot is attached to the wall. ... Unscrew spigot from the wall. Be careful! ... Wash Supply Pipe. Make sure that you clean off any bits of gunk from the supply pipe. ... Replace new spout on the copper pipe. ... Test it and make sure it works!

How do I know if my diverter valve is working?

If you find yourself with no hot water when you first turn on your tap, turn on the heating and wait a few minutes before trying your hot tap again. If hot water starts to come out, this suggests that it is likely your diverter valve is faulty.

Why does my diverter valve keep failing?

Diverter valves can become damaged or stuck. This is because they're a moving part and can be oscillating between being open or closed many times a day. However, they are fixable. If you have no hot water, try turning the heating on.

How do you fix a stuck shower diverter valve?

0:001:00How to fix stuck shower diverter valve - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBut it's enough to grip. Okay and then you want to turn it like this and as you're turning. Pull upMoreBut it's enough to grip. Okay and then you want to turn it like this and as you're turning. Pull up and eventually you'll find that this will loosen up and it'll go up. And so when you're done.

How do you replace a diverter valve?

Diverter Valve on a SpigotUnscrew the set screw. See how the spigot is attached to the wall. ... Unscrew spigot from the wall. Be careful! ... Wash Supply Pipe. Make sure that you clean off any bits of gunk from the supply pipe. ... Replace new spout on the copper pipe. ... Test it and make sure it works!

How do you fix a broken shower diverter?

How to Repair a Shower DiverterTurn off the water supply to your shower.Seal off your drain with tape so that small screws or other important parts are not lost down the drainpipe.Tighten the screws behind the faceplate of the diverter valve. ... Disassemble the shower diverter. ... Replace the diverter.More items...•

How do you replace a one handle faucet diverter?

0:521:59How to Replace Single-Control Faucet Diverter - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBody insert the new diverter into the faucet body with the fins pointing. Out remove the existing o-MoreBody insert the new diverter into the faucet body with the fins pointing. Out remove the existing o-rings and nylon bushings. Then replace them with new o-rings and nylon bushings.

How do you replace a tub diverter valve?

0:114:12Bathtub Spout with Diverter Replacement. Fix Leaking Tub SpoutYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou don't want to take a razor blade. And you want to want to scrape that and break that seal off ofMoreYou don't want to take a razor blade. And you want to want to scrape that and break that seal off of the edge of the spout. Then what you're gonna want to do is come and look underneath the spout.

What to do if your diverter gate is stubborn?

If your diverter gate stays stubborn after your vinegar soak, try using a lubricant to make it work better. Any cooking spray will do, and you probably have some in the kitchen.

How to tell if a shower diverter is a two valve or three valve?

When you remove a tee-valve from the wall, you find a single copper pipe. With two-valves and three-valves, you’ll find the corresponding number of copper pipes . If your shower diverter is a two-valve, focus on the temperature dial. This is because it often doubles as a shower diverter gate.

How to stop a handheld shower from leaking?

When you want to stop your handheld showerhead from leaking, you need to clean the inner parts of your diverter gate. Step 1: Turn off your water supply from the main spigot. This prevents flooding.

Why does my diverter gate keep squeaking?

Option 1 – Clean your spout. Sometimes, the diverter gate gets stuck. When you try to turn it or pull it up, it refuses to budge or makes squeaky, grating noises. If you do manage to pull it up, it may stick at the top and refuse to push back down. This is probably due to accumulated dirt, grease, and limescale.

How to clean a spout with vinegar?

If you like, you can mix the vinegar with water. Step 3: Wrap the plastic bag around your spout, submerging the spout. Step 4: Hold the bag in place using a rubber band, string, or shoe-lace. Step 5: Leave the faucet submerged for three or four days, checking it once a day.

What does a shower valve do when it is not working?

If your bathtub has a showerhead, your shower valve redirects water from the showerhead to the tub faucet. When it’s not working, water simultane ously pours from both outlets. It’s easy to fix, so let’s learn how. Shower valves have two parts:

How to replace a diverter?

Replace the diverter. To be sure you purchase the correct replacement, bring your old diverter with you to the store. Install the new diverter, making sure that the parts do not cross-thread each other. Use a wrench to tighten the diverter, being cautious not to overtighten it.

What is a shower diverter?

A shower diverter is the mechanism that reroutes the water from your bathtub faucet to your showerhead. Many shower diverters are controlled by a pin knob that you pull, but there are many types. Maybe yours is turned on with a button or with a third faucet handle between the bathtub’s hot and cold knobs.

Why is my shower diverter not working?

If, after you trigger your shower diverter, water continues to leak out of the bathtub spout rather than the showerhead, the shower diverter is not working properly. This could mean that the inner rubber stopper isn't creating a good seal to fully block and redirect the flow of water, or it could be another problem.

How do I fix a leaky bathtub drain?

Seal off your drain with tape so that small screws or other important parts are not lost down the drainpipe. Tighten the screws behind the faceplate of the diverter valve. If you attempt this fix but the water continues to pour or leak slowly from the bathtub spout after the shower diverter has been engaged, move on to the next step. ...

How to contact Mr Rooter?

Call Mr. Rooter at (855) 982-2028 or request an estimate today. With your newly upgraded bathroom fixture, consider making improvements to the rest of your bathroom. Contact your local Mr. Handyman for bathroom upgrade help. Their professionals can help you save space and improve your bathroom overall.

Can you turn on a shower when the diverter breaks?

Turning on your shower should be as easy as the flip of a switch. But when your shower diverter breaks, taking a shower is not so easy—water continues to pour from your tub’s faucet after you’ve switched the diverter. Luckily, repairing a shower diverter is quick and fairly simple.

What tool to remove a screw from a faucet?

2. Note that the tool to remove the screw could be an Allen Wrench, Flat Head Screwdriver, or a Phillips Head Screwdriver. 3.

How to make sure water is coming out of shower head?

1. Start this process by ensuring that the water is coming out of the tub faucet and not the shower head. Although it is not necessary to turn off your water supply, you want to make sure that if water does start coming, you don’t get soaked in the process! 2.

Is it bad to have a shower faucet leaking?

It is never a good thing when your shower tub faucet starts leaking, but it is a good thing when you know what to do to fix it! As long as you have the time, tools, and parts for the job you can definitely learn how to fix shower diverter all on your own!

How To Fix A Shower Diverter Gate

Before you consider fixing your shower diverter, you need to know and understand each part. A shower diverter has two components:

FAQs on How To Fix A Shower Diverter Gate

A leak can arise when the valve isn’t perfectly sealed. The normal place for water to flow out is the showerhead or the tub spout. If water drips out of the faucet, then you need to fix it.

Takeaway

Fixing a shower diverter is a straightforward process. This can save you the cost of hiring a plumber. The main goal is to ensure the flow of water diverts from the showerhead to the bathtub with the help of the bathtub spout.

What is a shower diverter?

A shower diverter acts like a gate inside the bathtub spout. There are 2 grooves inside the bathtub spout where the shower diverter is fitted allowing it to move up and down. A nylon piece is the one responsible for blocking the spout and hence divert water to the showerhead.

Why is my shower diverter stuck?

A stuck shower diverter is caused by debris, pipe corrosions and accumulation of mineral deposits in the bathtub spout. The substances embed on the groove inside the spout thereby restricting the free up and down movement of the diverter causing it jam.

What does it mean when a bathtub spout is threaded?

The type of spout – Buy a bathtub spout that looks like your old spout in design. If the old one was threaded it means the supply pipe is threaded too so you should buy one which is threaded too. The same case applies for spouts that use an Allen screw to secure them. The length of the supply pipe .

Why won't my shower diverter stay up?

A shower diverter that won’t stay up is caused by low water pressure in the line or a defective bathtub spout. Attach a pressure gauge to a spigot to determine house the pressure. If the pressure is ok replace the spout.

How to clean a shower spout with vinegar?

Fill it with vinegar all the way to the ½ or ¾ mark. 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. Secure the plastic bag to the spout using a rubber band.

How to fix a sticky shower diverter?

Sometimes the best wat to fix a sticky shower diverter is to soak the whole assembly in a bowl of vinegar. 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. There are 2 common types of bathtub spouts.

Do you need a shower diverter on a bathtub?

If you use a bathtub-shower-combo then you definitely have a shower diverter on your bathtub spout. It is a fantastic design that allows you to have a bathtub as a shower cubicle especially for people with small bathrooms. A shower diverter is a small knob on top of the bathtub spout that regulates the flow of water.

How to tighten a diverter?

Wrap the clean diverter threads in one or two layers of thread-seal tape. Insert the diverter into the faucet body. Use a butter knife or nickel to turn the diverter clockwise until it is tight. Replace the faucet cap on the faucet body. Cover the cap with the rag before tightening it with the pliers.

How long to soak a diverter?

Turn the diverter counterclockwise to release it from the faucet body. Soak the diverter for two hours in a 1/4 cup of white vinegar mixed with a 1/4 cup of water.

How to remove a spout from a faucet?

Removing the spout exposes the faucet diverter at the front of the faucet body. Insert a flathead screwdriver into the faucet body and behind the diverter. Place pressure on the back of the diverter with the flathead screwdriver to pop it from the body of the faucet. Soak the diverter for two hours in a 1/4 cup of white vinegar mixed ...

How to secure a faucet with a cam?

Twist the cap back onto the faucet. Reinstall the faucet handle and secure it by tightening the set screw. Turn the supply valve handles counterclockwise to supply the faucet with water.

Why does my kitchen sprayer stop working?

When you squeeze the trigger, the water pressure drops to engage the diverter. This stops the water flow at the spout and moves it to the sprayer. If your kitchen sprayer quits working, sometimes the sprayer itself has sustained damage, but chances are the diverter inside the faucet has become clogged.

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