If you have a leaky shower diverter, you may wonder how to fix it. If you can’t get water to run when you shower, you can disassemble the diverter and clean the valve stem with silicone grease. You can also try replacing the diverter if it’s no longer functioning properly.
Disassemble a shower diverter
If your diverter leaks, you may be able to fix the problem yourself if you know how to disassemble the unit. To disassemble a shower diverter, you must first unplug the stem. This is the part inside the shower valve located in the centre of the shower valve. Disengaging the stem is easy, and you can do it yourself by turning the wrench counterclockwise. You can then unscrew the stem assembly with two adjustable wrenches. Again, be sure to place the wrenches on the stems in a counterclockwise fashion. After you remove the stem, you should be able to see the brass stem.
Now that you’ve disassembled the diverter stem, you need to replace it and lubricate it. Next, remove the washer and replace it with a new one. Next, install the diverter handle screw and tighten it. You can also clean it with a plumber’s lubricant.
Clean the valve stem with silicone grease
To fix a shower diverter, ensure the diverter valve stem is clean. If it is not, it will break, so be sure to clean it thoroughly. If the valve is part of the faucet, you may have to remove the spout to see if the problem is with the diverter valve or the faucet. Then, you can use a flat file and white vinegar to clean the valve stem.
Next, you need to disassemble the diverter valve. You may have already done this step, or you may have found a guide online. Either way, you need to loosen the screws holding the diverter to the wall. Once done, you can disconnect the diverter from the pipe or wall.
If this doesn’t work, you can replace the diverter. This is a relatively easy repair and easy to do yourself. To replace the diverter, you can buy one at a home improvement store.
Replace a defective shower diverter
If your diverter valve seems to malfunction, you may need to replace it. There are a few ways to do this. Firstly, you should turn off the main water supply before starting work. Once the water is turned off, you can remove the small cap that covers the shower valve stem. This will allow you to access the bolts that hold the diverter assembly to the wall. Next, a deep socket wrench is used to unscrew the diverter stem from the pipe and wall.
If the diverter spout is cracked or bent, you may need to replace it. Another way to replace a diverter is to tighten the screws on the stem assembly. This will help you to prevent water from flowing back into the diverter. Then, you can replace the spout.
Next, you should check the valve for any O-rings or washers that may still be attached to the pipe. These can interfere with the valve’s operation. Also, check if the seat washer is damaged. If it is, you can replace it by purchasing a new one from a store. This method is easier than replacing individual parts and only takes a few minutes. Finally, be sure not to overtighten the valve.
Reinstall a shower diverter
If your shower diverter has stopped working completely, you can reinstall it by following these steps. First, prepare a work area. This will prevent the small parts and screws from falling into the drain. You should also cover the drain so you can easily inspect the diverter and see if there is a problem.
Next, turn off the water in your shower. Finally, turn off the valve in a hidden access panel behind the shower. To install a new diverter valve, remove the old one and clean the copper piping. Then, you can reinstall the diverter valve using a shower diverter kit that costs about $50. You can also install a shower gate if you don’t have this much money.
Then, unscrew the old shower head from the base. You may need a wrench to release it. Then, screw the new diverter valve into the pipe. If you don’t do this correctly, you may have a leak or reduced water pressure.
