Is your shower faucet diverter giving you trouble? If so, you’re not alone. This is a common problem that can be frustrating to deal with. However, it’s usually a relatively easy fix that you can do yourself. In this article, we’ll show you how to fix a shower faucet diverter in just a few simple steps.
The first step is to identify the type of diverter you have. There are two main types of diverters: pull-up diverters and push-button diverters. Pull-up diverters are the most common and are typically found on older faucets. Push-button diverters are newer and are typically found on faucets with a single handle. Once you’ve identified the type of diverter you have, you can follow the instructions below to fix it.
If you have a pull-up diverter, the first thing you need to do is remove the handle. To do this, simply unscrew the set screw that is located on the top of the handle. Once the handle is removed, you will see the diverter stem. The diverter stem is what controls the flow of water between the showerhead and the tub spout. To remove the diverter stem, simply unscrew it using a pair of pliers. Once the diverter stem is removed, you can inspect it for any damage. If the diverter stem is damaged, you will need to replace it.
Cleaning a Clogged Diverter
If your shower diverter is clogged, it can prevent you from getting the desired water flow to your showerhead or tub spout. Fortunately, cleaning a clogged diverter is a relatively simple task that can be done in a few steps.
1. Identify the Diverter Type
The first step is to identify the type of diverter you have. There are two main types of shower diverters: pull-up diverters and push-button diverters. Pull-up diverters are typically found on older showers, while push-button diverters are more common on newer models.
2. Remove the Diverter
Once you know what type of diverter you have, you can remove it. For a pull-up diverter, simply pull up on the knob to remove it. For a push-button diverter, press the button and pull out the knob.
3. Clean the Diverter
Once the diverter is removed, you can clean it. Use a toothbrush or a small brush to scrub away any dirt or debris from the diverter. You can also use a vinegar solution to help dissolve any mineral deposits. To make a vinegar solution, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a small bowl.
| Type of Diverter | Removal Method |
|---|---|
| Pull-Up Diverter | Pull up on the knob |
| Push-Button Diverter | Press the button and pull out the knob |
4. Reinstall the Diverter
Once the diverter is clean, you can reinstall it. To reinstall a pull-up diverter, simply push it back into place. To reinstall a push-button diverter, push the knob into place and then press the button.
5. Test the Diverter
Once the diverter is reinstalled, you can test it to make sure it is working properly. Turn on the water and check to see if the water is flowing properly to the showerhead or tub spout. If the water is not flowing properly, you may need to adjust the diverter or replace it.
Inspecting the Water Supply
To eliminate any external factors contributing to the diverter malfunction, it is crucial to inspect the water supply. Follow these detailed steps:
1. Shut Off the Water Supply:
Locate the main water supply valve, typically found under the sink or in a basement/utility area. Turn the valve clockwise to completely shut off the water flow.
2. Disconnect the Hoses:
Disconnect the hot and cold water supply hoses from the diverter valve. If the hoses are old or damaged, consider replacing them with new ones.
3. Check for Blockages:
Use a flashlight to examine the inside of the hoses and the inlet ports of the diverter valve for any debris or mineral buildup. If any obstructions are found, gently remove them using a needle or thin wire.
4. Turn on the Water:
Turn the main water supply valve counterclockwise to restore the water flow. Check for leaks at the hose connections and the diverter valve. If there are any leaks, tighten the connections or replace the faulty parts.
5. Test the Pressure:
Open the shower head and check the water pressure. If the pressure is weak or inconsistent, it may indicate a problem with the water supply or the pressure regulator. Contact a licensed plumber if necessary.
6. Rule Out Pressure Fluctuations:
Examine the performance of other water fixtures in your home, such as sinks, toilets, and dishwashers. If you notice inconsistent water pressure or flow in multiple fixtures, it suggests a systemic issue with the water supply. Check the following:
| Cause | Possible Solutions |
|---|---|
| Low water pressure | – Check the main water supply valve – Clean or replace the water pressure regulator – Contact your municipality to inquire about any water supply issues |
| Fluctuating water pressure | – Inspect the water pressure regulator for leaks or defects – Check for leaks in the plumbing system – Consider installing a water pressure stabilizer |
Troubleshooting Electrical Issues
If you’re experiencing electrical issues with your shower faucet diverter, here are some steps to troubleshoot the problem:
1. Check the power supply
Make sure that the power supply to the shower faucet diverter is turned on. You can do this by checking the circuit breaker or fuse box.
2. Check the wiring
Inspect the wiring to the shower faucet diverter for any loose connections or damage. If you find any loose connections, tighten them. If you find any damaged wires, replace them.
3. Check the diverter valve
The diverter valve is the component that controls the flow of water from the showerhead to the tub spout. If the diverter valve is faulty, it can cause electrical issues. To check the diverter valve, turn off the water supply to the shower and remove the diverter valve. Inspect the diverter valve for any damage or wear. If the diverter valve is damaged, replace it.
4. Check the solenoid
The solenoid is the component that opens and closes the water flow to the tub spout. If the solenoid is faulty, it can cause electrical issues. To check the solenoid, turn off the water supply to the shower and remove the solenoid. Inspect the solenoid for any damage or wear. If the solenoid is damaged, replace it.
5. Check the circuit board
The circuit board is the component that controls the electrical functions of the shower faucet diverter. If the circuit board is faulty, it can cause electrical issues. To check the circuit board, turn off the power supply to the shower faucet diverter and remove the circuit board. Inspect the circuit board for any damage or corrosion. If the circuit board is damaged, replace it.
6. Reset the shower faucet diverter
If you’ve checked all of the above components and you’re still experiencing electrical issues, you can try resetting the shower faucet diverter. To reset the shower faucet diverter, turn off the power supply to the shower faucet diverter and wait for 30 seconds. Then, turn the power supply back on and see if the electrical issues have been resolved.
7. Contact a qualified electrician
If you’re unable to troubleshoot the electrical issues with your shower faucet diverter yourself, you should contact a qualified electrician. A qualified electrician will be able to diagnose the problem and repair the shower faucet diverter.
| Troubleshooting Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Check the power supply | Make sure that the power supply to the shower faucet diverter is turned on. |
| Check the wiring | Inspect the wiring to the shower faucet diverter for any loose connections or damage. |
| Check the diverter valve | The diverter valve is the component that controls the flow of water from the showerhead to the tub spout. |
| Check the solenoid | The solenoid is the component that opens and closes the water flow to the tub spout. |
| Check the circuit board | The circuit board is the component that controls the electrical functions of the shower faucet diverter. |
| Reset the shower faucet diverter | To reset the shower faucet diverter, turn off the power supply to the shower faucet diverter and wait for 30 seconds. |
| Contact a qualified electrician | If you’re unable to troubleshoot the electrical issues with your shower faucet diverter yourself, you should contact a qualified electrician. |
Identifying Common Diverter Types
Understanding the different types of diverter valves is crucial for proper diagnosis and repair. Here are the most common ones:
1. Pull-Up Diverters:
These diverter valves are typically found on tub/shower faucets. When the handle is pulled up, water is diverted to the showerhead. When released, water flows through the tub spout.
2. Push-Button Diverters:
These diverter valves are also used in tub/shower faucets. They have a button that, when pressed, diverts water to the showerhead. Pressing it again returns water to the tub spout.
3. Cross-Handle Diverters:
Found in some older tub/shower faucets, these diverter valves have two separate handles that allow you to control the water flow to the showerhead and tub spout independently.
4. Lever-Handle Diverters:
Similar to cross-handle diverters, lever-handle diverters have a single lever that controls both the water flow and the diversion. Moving the lever in one direction diverts water to the showerhead, while moving it in the opposite direction sends water to the tub spout.
5. Rotary Diverters:
These diverter valves are often found on kitchen faucets. Rotating the knob or handle controls the water flow and diversion, allowing you to switch between the sink nozzle, side sprayer, or both.
6. Slide Diverters:
Slide diverters are similar to rotary diverters but have a sliding mechanism instead of a rotating knob. Moving the slide in one direction diverts water to one outlet, while moving it in the opposite direction sends water to the other.
7. Pressure-Balanced Diverters:
These diverter valves are designed to maintain a consistent water temperature, even when the pressure in the hot or cold water supply changes. They automatically adjust the flow of hot and cold water to keep the water temperature stable.
8. Service Stop and Diverter Combinations:
These are combination valves that include both a service stop and a diverter. The service stop allows you to shut off the water supply for maintenance or repairs, while the diverter controls the water flow and diversion between different outlets.
| Diverter Type | Mechanism |
|---|---|
| Pull-Up | Pulling handle up diverts water |
| Push-Button | Pressing button diverts water |
| Cross-Handle | Two handles control flow and diversion |
| Lever-Handle | Single lever controls flow and diversion |
| Rotary | Rotating knob controls flow and diversion |
| Slide | Sliding mechanism controls flow and diversion |
| Pressure-Balanced | Maintains consistent water temperature |
| Service Stop and Diverter Combo | Includes both service stop and diverter |
Tools and Materials
Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:
- Phillips screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- 3/8-inch nut driver
- Faucet stem key
- Plumber’s putty
- Teflon tape
- Replacement diverter
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Turn off the water supply: Locate the water supply valves beneath the sink and turn them clockwise to shut off the water.
2. Remove the handle: Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the handle.
3. Remove the mounting screw: Use a 3/8-inch nut driver to remove the mounting screw that secures the diverter.
4. Pull out the diverter: Gently pull the diverter out of the faucet body.
5. Apply plumber’s putty: Apply a thin layer of plumber’s putty around the base of the new diverter.
6. Insert the new diverter: Push the new diverter into the faucet body.
7. Tighten the mounting screw: Use a 3/8-inch nut driver to tighten the mounting screw.
8. Wrap Teflon tape around the spout: Apply several layers of Teflon tape around the threads of the spout.
9. Reattach the spout: Screw the spout back onto the faucet body.
10. Turn on the water supply: Slowly turn on the water supply valves and check for leaks.
Tips for Preventing Future Problems
To prevent future problems with your shower faucet diverter, follow these tips:
Use the diverter properly: Avoid using the diverter as a volume control. Instead, use it only to switch between the showerhead and the tub spout.
Clean the diverter regularly: Mineral buildup can cause the diverter to stick or become clogged. Clean the diverter regularly by removing it from the faucet body and soaking it in a vinegar solution.
Replace the diverter if necessary: If the diverter becomes damaged or worn, replace it with a new one.
How to Fix a Shower Faucet Diverter
Shower faucet diverters redirect water flow from the showerhead to the tub spout. When a diverter is malfunctioning, it can lead to a variety of issues, such as low water pressure, uneven water distribution, and even leaks. Fortunately, fixing a shower faucet diverter is a relatively simple DIY project that can be completed in under an hour. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Turn off the water supply to the shower.
2. Remove the handle.
3. Remove the trim plate.
4. Remove the diverter cartridge.
5. Inspect the diverter cartridge.
6. Replace the diverter cartridge if necessary.
7. Reassemble the shower faucet.
People Also Ask About How to Fix a Shower Faucet Diverter
How do I know if my shower faucet diverter is bad?
There are a few signs that may indicate that your shower faucet diverter is bad. These include:
- Low water pressure: If you notice that the water pressure from your showerhead or tub spout has decreased, it could be a sign that the diverter is not working properly.
- Uneven water distribution: If the water is not flowing evenly from both the showerhead and tub spout, it could be a sign that the diverter is not functioning correctly.
- Leaks: If you notice water leaking from the shower faucet, it could be a sign that the diverter is damaged or worn.
How to replace a shower faucet diverter?
Replacing a shower faucet diverter is a relatively simple DIY project that can be completed in under an hour. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Turn off the water supply to the shower.
2. Remove the handle.
3. Remove the trim plate.
4. Remove the diverter cartridge.
5. Inspect the diverter cartridge.
6. Replace the diverter cartridge if necessary.
7. Reassemble the shower faucet.
