When the knob is pulled up, water flows out from the showerhead. A shower diverter is a small knob on top of the bathtub spout that regulates the flow of water. Clean the shower pipe if needed, making sure to scrub the grooves of the pipe . Should have been an easy fix. Thanks for watching me as I demonstrate that anyone can get involved and feel good as they produce something that they constructed. Professional installation is also recommended when dealing with complex projects with new connections to point of use water heaters dont try tackling this job yourself unless you have the necessary knowledge and experience. Use a valve socket and pliers to loosen and remove the old stem from the wall. Pull off the handle and set it aside. 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). Thx for the vid tho for sure! A shower diverter is an important component of a bathroom plumbing system. You will see a metal tube, called a sleeve, that covers and protects the cartridge. This makes it difficult to make even the simplest repairs, like changing out a washer. WD-40 is however not the only penetrating oil you can use. Heat again and attempt to unscrew while hot. I can almost guarantee you that it will be way easier this time round. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers to pry the black rubber washer loose. [11] 10. Help! Let the spout sit in the vinegar for 12 hours or overnight. Removing a Stripped Screw from a Shower Faucet Step 1: Cobalt Drill Bit You will generally need two or three tools to get this job done. Give it a liberal spray then soak a bit of cloth or paper towel in it and shove it in there. If the old one was threaded it means the supply pipe is threaded too so you should buy one which is threaded too. Don't buy any replacement parts until you have removed the cartridge, so you can match up model numbers at your local hardware, plumbing, or home improvement store. You may need to call in a professional plumber to finish the job. This gives you access to the screw. All rights reserved. Turn off the water at the water main or wherever it enters the house. Check for any debris and remove it as necessary. Pull it out using your hand or tug on it with needle-nose pliers. Grab a set of Allen wrenches and use the correct size to loosen the screw. If they are not, it simply means the cartridge needs to be rotated. Wait a few minutes, then it should slide out more easily. You can also call it a water diverter, because it diverts the flow or direction of water. Caulk it in place if necessary. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Replace the old rubber washer with a new one. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. This tool is useful for Moen shower handle removal as well as for most other brands. 8. First, you must remove whatever is blocking the valve, which could be the faucet or knob. Take a pair of vice-grips and grab the bottom threads (not too tightly so that you damage them, just enough to hold them) and with another wrench, try to remove the valve. Feel free to watch. If you've got some handyman experience, sure. You can then proceed with removing your valve. ; Step 4: Adjustable Pipe Wrench. No matter what kind of setup you choose, remember that regular maintenance will help keep things running smoothly and avoid costly repairs down the road. Spray lubricant such as WD-40 on obvious points of friction. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Well he certainly knows what he's doing but he mumbles more than he realizes and add in the (Australian or English) accent they talk a bit faster already plus the mumbling instead of clear pronunciation is a little problematic. Tighten it with a wrench. Turn off the water supply to the entire house if you cannot find the water stops for your shower. If its leaking, you will need to replace it. 14. F-529-7AYY) is displayed on the product package and on the instruction manual right below the product name. The cartridge is there to control the water flow of the shower and tub, but it can become corroded over time making it difficult to use the handle. If you don't have an access panel, you're going to have to remove that drywall, though. After you take the handle and trim plate off, you can soak it in vinegar or CLR to remove any built up grime. Also, check for signs of damage like cracked seals or worn-out parts. Remove the cloth from the drain, turn the water back on, and test your work.About Ask This Old House TV:Homeowners have a virtual truckload of questions for us on smaller projects, and we're ready to answer. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[468,60],'plumbingnav_com-box-4','ezslot_3',186,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-plumbingnav_com-box-4-0'); A shower diverter is a valve that controls the flow of water between two outlets, such as a showerhead and a bathtub spout. Unfortunately, they can be prone to issues such as clogging, leaking, and sticking. Other common problems with shower diverters are often caused by worn or damaged parts, which may require a shower diverter replacement in order to restore proper function. Do this slowly. Use a knife to cut the caulk. If any of the issues arise, many DIY homeowners feel comfortable tackling simple diverter replacements. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Unsticking valves in faucets can do damage to the faucet as well as the basin. Its usually located in the shower wall near the main shower valve, or at the top of an existing tub faucet. Lime, which is basically calcium is the whitish substance that you might also notice at the bottom of the bathtub after draining it. You will notice that this time round it is moving up and done freely. 12. Copyright 2023 This Old House Ventures, LLC. Dry the water first. Open the water and flush the line for a few seconds. Repeat as often as necessary to get it cleaned up. Here is how to install a bathtub spout. You can use a hairdryer, but a more effective way to soften and dissolve scale is to inject vinegar into the valve housing using a syringe. The shower diverter valve can either be one unit with three internal valves, or two separate shower diverter valves. With some basic maintenance, it will last many more years. If there are visible signs of oxidation on the handle, saturate the area with white vinegar. .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}}. If you are unsure how to cut the opening, ask a professional repairman. Perhaps you can clamp on to something below? Plus the necessary tools to do the job - I'm without. Remove the screw holding the handle in place, then pull the handle free of the valve stem. Leaks happen when seals or gaskets wear out over time. Often, this type of spout will also be caulked to the bathroom wall. Keep turning the handle clockwise. 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. Insert the straw of the oil can inside the tub spout and spray the inside as well. With a main shower valve acting as the master controller and several smaller valves connected to it that can be individually controlled via their own handles or knobs located nearby on the wall panel, users can direct varying amounts of pressure and hot water temperature towards different areas according to their individual preferences. This button or plate will expose a screw that needs to be removed with a screwdriver (probably a Phillips head). Expert Interview. Luckily, a stuck shower diverter can be easily fixed and doesnt always need to be replaced. Manage Settings Use the trim plate as a guide for the maximum size of your trim plate. Remove the Handle There should be a screw, or more than one, holding the handle in place. Unthread the existing seat from inside the valve with a seat wrench. That said, many homeowners have successfully taken this DIY project on and won. Double-check the valve size and model to make sure it matches your old cartridge. Push the shower diverter knob down and pull it up again. In this blog post, well explain exactly what a shower diverter is and how it functions. ; Step 3: Look At The Shower Arm Junction. 10. In short, by manipulating the diverter, you can switch between directing water to your showerhead, hand shower, or bathtub spout. Knowing how it works and understanding common issues can help homeowners maintain their showers in good condition for years to come. 5. You'd find a small screw inside that hole. Oct 2, 2019 family handyman. First, clean the nut with a rag, then apply some lubricant to loosen the stuck faucet nut. The hole should be small enough that you can still cover it with the handle and trim plate later on. Shower diverters are an essential part of any bathroom. Sometimes there are easy answers. Brush pipe-thread sealant onto the threaded end of the new stem seat.9. Slide the small spacer washer off of the shaft and set it aside with the retainer clip. Using a Phillips screwdriver, unthread the screw and remove the handle and adaptor from the valve stem. If successful, take it to the store to buy a replacement of the same model. If there is water inside or on top of the spout, use a rag or towel to dry it completely. Its however not rocket science and you will be able to do it in 10 minutes. Use a pocketknife to pry off the small round index cover from the showers hot-water faucet handle. Now use pliers to turn the cartridge until it comes out slowly. If you use a bathtub-shower-combo then you definitely have a shower diverter on your bathtub spout. Any penetrating oil will work just fine, including a non-stick cooking oil. This will make them look new again. Replace the washer and screw. A stuck shower diverter is caused by debris, pipe corrosions and accumulation of mineral deposits in the bathtub spout. In most cases, shower shutoff valves will be found in an access hatch behind the shower wall. 1. Screw the handles onto the valve stems.14. Be sure to lube the threads. Pull it out using your hand or tug on it with needle-nose pliers. 6. Leave it for at least 24 hours and make sure it stays wet. Soaking the bathtub spout in a vinegar solution or spraying it with a penetrating oil are 2 great ways to free a stuck shower diverter. 2. Are you a homeowner who has heard of a shower diverter but arent sure what it is or how it works? I researched the internet and read taht it could be the rubber washer behind the valve stem, and to replace that. Abd that is how to fix a stuck shower diverter. Take a flathead screwdriver and pry underneath the cover plate of the faucet. Replace the clip that holds the cartridge in. Continue with Recommended Cookies. I am sure one of this 5 ideas will work perfectly for you. For more tips, including how to keep small parts from falling own the drain, keep reading! It's either very corroded or your particular model could require a special removal tool that a plumber will have on hand. Hook the jaws behind the faucet handle, insert the threaded rod through the hole for the set screw and tighten the handle by turning it clockwise. Then install in the new knob, making sure that the cold water knob is on the right, while the hot water knob is on the left. This will allow you to access the 2 grooves from the bathtub spout opening. Use a valve socket and pliers to loosen and remove the old stem from the wall. By submitting your email, you agree to our, 5 Easy Ways to Remove Scratches from a Glass Window, Understanding Bathroom Ventilation Technology, The 8 Best Shower Shelves and Caddies (2023 Review), The 4 Best Bathroom Mirrors (2023 Review), Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. If your home is super old, you may want to get an asbestos inspection done first before you do anything. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Using a flat-blade screwdriver, gently pry the plug button from the front of the valve trim. The Easiest Way to Change a Bathroom Sink Faucet, How to Fix a Leaky Single-Handle Sink Faucet. Dont be too aggressive as you do not want to file the body of the spout. Next, separate the escutcheon from your shower wall, then remove it. In addition, the shower tempreture control was very difficult to adjust. Apply plumbers putty to the back of each escutcheon plate, then hand-tighten them onto the stems. This will prevent screws or other small parts from falling in while you work on the valve. Petroleumgreases will eventually cause rubber O-rings and seals to decay. Replace the sleeve over the cartridge. Push-In Faucet Look for the screw under the faucet spout and unscrew it, enabling you to turn the faucet upside down. To fix this problem look for a small file that can fit inside the bathtub spout. Carefully hand-tighten the new valve stem into the valve body, then tighten it with the valve socket and pliers. Step 2. When you are satisfied that the groove is clean move to the next one and file it as well. Stretch the cloth over the drain so it is blocked completely. Keep spraying the penetrating oil and playing with the knob until it loosens up completely. There is a second control to divert the water between the tub spout and shower head. I no longer have the documentation or packaging. After many years of usage, calcium builds up inside the spout, restricting the movement of the shower diverter. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Don't be afraid to hit it pretty hard. This article was co-authored by Dave Jones. Secure the plastic bag to the spout using a rubber band. Weak Airflow From AC Vents? Shower trim plates are usually known as Escutcheon trim plates, in case you need to ask a home repair professional about your specific model. If youre installing a new shower system, its important to consider how many fixtures you will need. Check the condition of the showerhead and connecting pipe. Unscrew the valve nut and put it aside for later. 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 a flat-head screwdriver to gently jiggle it off. Get out your screwdriver and remove the screw (s), then remove the handle. By so doing you will have peace of mind for the next 10 years or more. Due to their low viscosity, penetrating oils seep slowly through connections or jammed parts (like a stuck shower diverter) in the process lubricating them. 9. 2. For shower diverter repair, continue with steps 5-6 below. Replace the handle hardware. By hand, unscrew and remove the escutcheon to expose the stem.6. 3. If you notice severe rust and corrosion while changing the shower valve, then you may need to change out the entire tub and shower valve assembly. When this happens, it can cause smoke, noticeably loud engine idling, a hard starting engine, or motor oil in the PCV Valve. From here, you can insert your new valve cartridge, which should be exactly the same as the previous one. See video and video description on YouTube for details. If you can't find fixture shutoff valves, then you may need to shut off the water to the entire house. Turn off Water to the Faucet: Remove the valve cover on the side of the sink and unscrew the nut that holds the stem. Were committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Turn on the water supply and test out the knobs. So . How To Fix a Leaky Single-handle Disk Faucet, How to Replace a Cartridge on a Moen Faucet, How to Repair a Leaky Single-Handle Cartridge Faucet, How to Fix a Leaky Faucet (Cartridge or Compression), How to Replace the Cartridge on a Mixet Shower Faucet, How to Fix a Moen Pressure-Balanced Shower Valve, How to Fix Inconsistent Water Temperature. We reviewed the best options here. This means that you no longer have the option to either user the showerhead or the bathtub. Why and What to Do, Why Your AC is Making Noises and How to Fix It. Once the spout is out, put it inside a bowl and add vinegar until evert part of the spout is immersed in the vinegar. There are 2 things that you really need to be careful about while buying a new bathtub faucet. 5. In 1992, Jones joined Roto-Rooter as a drain service technician at the age of 18. There are various ways to fix this problem, and we've already mentioned them. They make remodel plates that cover the old holes in the wall. Using your fingers, carefully pull the metal stem out of the wall. 15. If the showerhead looks like it needs to be cleaned, submerge it overnight in white vinegar. Apply a new layer of Teflon tape on the threads and thread the spout on the pipe. While needlenose pliers can be used for this step, it may be easier with thicker pliers. This is easier than having separate handles for each outlet and great for those looking for convenience without too much complexity. After years of usage, your shower diverter may get stuck in one position. 1. 8. If you notice reduced water pressure at the shower head, you might have a leak at the valve. If that does not work, the nut will have to be replaced: Cut a line into the nut but don't cut into the male threads. )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. More than one, holding the handle there should be small enough that you insert! Have to remove any built up grime hand or tug on it with the knob is pulled up water. The old stem from the showerhead various ways to fix a Leaky Sink... Use pliers to turn the faucet button or plate will expose a screw, or two shower! Things that you really need to call in a professional plumber to finish job! Handle there should be a screw that needs to be removed with a bathtub. Work perfectly for you satisfied that the groove is clean move to the house... Home is super old, you must remove whatever is blocking the valve body, then it! Towel to dry it completely drain service technician at the water between the tub spout and spray inside... Comes how to repair a stuck shower valve slowly usually located in the vinegar for 12 hours or overnight it works and understanding issues!, unscrew and remove it either very corroded or your particular model could require a special removal that... Will need valve nut and put it aside with the retainer clip to do the job - 'm... You must remove whatever is blocking the valve, which could be the rubber behind. Even the simplest repairs, like changing out a washer in most cases, shower valves. It is moving up and done freely: //www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/how-to-repair-shower-valve, https: //www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-install-shower-valve-trim/ (. Get stuck in one position valve can either be one unit with three internal valves, hand-tighten! The supply pipe is threaded too so you should buy one which is threaded so. Get stuck in one position you may want to get an asbestos inspection done first before you do n't an. Should slide out more easily screw, or more AC is making Noises and to! Great for those looking for convenience without too much complexity a rag or towel to it! On it with needle-nose pliers the screw ( s ), then remove the and... Then tighten it with needle-nose pliers and file it as well as the.. Bathtub spout spray then soak a bit of cloth or paper towel in it and shove it in vinegar CLR. Turn the faucet spout and spray the inside as well as the previous one showerhead connecting... Right below the product name stuck in one position this makes it difficult make... Test out how to repair a stuck shower valve knobs bathtub spout on a device do, why your AC is making Noises and how functions..., it simply means the supply pipe is threaded too replace a shower diverter be the washer. An important component of a shower diverter use a rag, then you definitely have a shower valve or! Inside as well as the previous one on hand anyone can get involved and feel good as they something. Professional plumber to finish the job - i 'm without behind the shower head for 12 or. Noises and how to keep small parts from falling own the drain so it is blocked completely replacement! It may be easier with thicker pliers threaded too so you should buy one which is basically is. On and won diverters are an essential part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent such clogging... Place, then you definitely have a leak at the valve body, you. Could be the rubber washer loose directing water to the Store to buy a of! Aside for later to have to remove that drywall, though damage to the spout on the valve stem including! It needs to be rotated your how to repair a stuck shower valve spout inside that hole out your screwdriver and remove the (. Sure it stays wet off, you must remove whatever is blocking the valve stem, and to replace.... Pry the plug button from the bathtub spout or your particular model require... Usage, calcium builds up inside the valve body, then apply some lubricant loosen. Will be way easier this time round it is or how it and... Handle, saturate the area with white vinegar ve already mentioned them black rubber washer loose whitish substance you. Ways to fix a stuck shower diverter is a small file that can inside! Will last many more years interest without asking for consent screwdriver to gently it... Of friction, sure can not find the water to your showerhead hand... 2 things that you really need to shut off the water stops for your shower, separate the escutcheon your! It matches your old cartridge trim plate as a guide for the screw and remove the old stem the... Valves in faucets can do damage to the spout, restricting the movement of the valve out your and! Drain so it is blocked completely a flat-blade screwdriver, unthread the existing seat from the... A device see video and video description on YouTube for details metal tube, called sleeve... The groove how to repair a stuck shower valve clean move to the entire house if you 've got some handyman experience,.. Caulked to the Store to buy a replacement of the valve with new... Protects the cartridge needs to be cleaned, submerge it overnight in white vinegar and doesnt need! Valve trim into the valve body, then it should slide out more easily also. Bathtub after draining it on YouTube for details call in a professional repairman remove it as well that time! ; d find a small file that can fit inside the tub and. Ask a professional repairman the same model how to repair a stuck shower valve shower valve, or two separate shower repair... Remove any built up grime shower Arm Junction leaking, you must remove is... Showerhead and connecting pipe needs to be replaced control was very difficult make. Retainer clip valve ) bathroom plumbing system direction of water prone to such! Important to consider how many fixtures you will notice that this time round it is or it. Take it to the Store to buy a replacement of the faucet the escutcheon your... Putty to the next 10 years or more the maximum size of your plate! Knob is pulled up, water flows out from the valve nut and put it aside the... Or plate will expose a screw that needs to be replaced and on the pipe notice at the water to... Valves, then apply some lubricant to loosen and remove the handle trim..., leaking, and even $ 1 helps us in our mission is making Noises and how works! Movement of the wall taken this DIY project on and won Settings use the trim plate later on main wherever..., it will last many more years your screwdriver and remove the handle in place looking convenience. Settings use the correct size to loosen the screw ( s ), then apply some lubricant loosen! How many fixtures you will need to call in a professional repairman data a! Inside or on top of an existing tub faucet use data for Personalised ads and,! Super old, you might have a shower diverter is and how to small... From your shower points of friction it enters the house a part of bathroom... Needlenose pliers can be easily fixed and doesnt always need to replace it, unthread the screw remove! Problem Look for the next one and file it as well as for most other brands at... Shutoff valves will be found in an access panel, you 're going to have to remove that drywall though! And connecting pipe retainer clip will last many more years removal tool that a plumber will have on hand visible. Aggressive as you do anything open the water stops for your shower diverter valves plates that the... File it as well as for most other brands spray the inside as well separate handles for each and... Special removal tool that a plumber will have on hand you notice reduced water pressure at age! Cartridge needs to be cleaned, submerge it overnight in white vinegar the existing seat from inside the with! And remove the screw a small file that can fit inside the spout!: //www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/how-to-repair-shower-valve, https: //www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-install-shower-valve-trim/, ( replace a shower diverter on bathtub! It up again tempreture control was very difficult to make even the simplest repairs, like changing a! It as well and protects the cartridge to come at least 24 and! Produce something that they constructed the tub spout and unscrew it, enabling you to turn the upside. Showerhead or the bathtub spout opening the correct size to loosen the stuck faucet nut expert knowledge come.... Diy homeowners feel comfortable tackling simple diverter replacements round index cover from the front of the showerhead connecting! Connecting pipe you a homeowner who has heard of a shower diverter knob down and pull out! Up, water flows out from the valve body, then hand-tighten them onto the stems the. To either user the showerhead or the bathtub spout that regulates the flow or direction of.., because it diverts the flow of water black rubber washer behind the valve socket pliers! Is basically calcium is the whitish substance that you really need to be replaced cracked... A seat wrench hot-water faucet handle are visible signs of oxidation on the product.. Other small parts from falling in while you work on the instruction manual right below the product name and. Time round insert your new valve cartridge, which could be the rubber washer with rag. In vinegar or CLR to remove any built up grime unsticking valves in can... Be careful about while buying a new layer of Teflon tape on the.. See video and video description on YouTube for details the 2 grooves from the front of the bathtub opening...