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. Perhaps you can clamp on to something below? Removing your old valve and installing a new one can take time, but with patience, a novice handyman can do it without the help of a plumber. Turn off the water at the fixture shutoff valves or at your home's main valve. Try putting a block of wood flat on the surface of the shower in between you and the cartridge. 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 2. Use a thin Allen key or any other electric screwdriver or driller to pull off the bolt from the handle. This will reduce the risk of damaging the valve. By so doing you will have peace of mind for the next 10 years or more. See this article on how to fix a stuck shower diverter. Do this slowly. Then, test the toughness of it with an Allen wrench - any movement is a good sign. From here, you can insert your new valve cartridge, which should be exactly the same as the previous one. Make sure that it goes in straight and is not cross-threaded. When you . YouTuber pro - Something to consider: For those with an existing two-tap setup, a three-valve diverter system is the way to go. Use a pocketknife to pry off the small round index cover from the showers hot-water faucet handle. If you're unsure or have questions about the specific type, contact a plumber or home repairman. family handyman. Replace the clip that holds the cartridge in. As a small thank you, wed like to offer you a $30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). 8. Screw the handles onto the valve stems. Now use pliers to turn the cartridge until it comes out slowly. The third is optional (some kind of screw extractor) but can certainly make the final step easier. Remove the screw holding the handle in place, then pull the handle free of the valve stem.5. 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. If youre installing a new shower system, its important to consider how many fixtures you will need. It dissolves calcium deposits in faucets quite effectively and will definitely loosen a stuck shower diverter. If the diverter kind of sticks or catches, don't worry. 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. Use the diverter a few times. Remove the wrench and nut from the valve. This gives you access to the screw. If youre replacing these in commercial plumbing, you may need to include the advice of a professional plumbing service to ensure adequate water pressure for your facility. Dave served as general manager of Roto-Rooters Charlotte, North Carolina, and Atlanta, Georgia branches before being promoted to Contractor Area Manager and later to Regional Vice President. In addition, once you have finished replacing the cartridge, check to see if the hot and cold water positions are correct. Due to limescale I had lots of problem opening and closing the shower. My shower is doing exactly what he first stated. Turn the water on to pull the diverter up and down to seat it. Dave holds Master Plumber Licenses in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia. ; Step 4: Adjustable Pipe Wrench. In order for rust to take place, water and oxygen have to be present on an iron surface. The choice depends on the severity of problems and to some extent the materials available. Apply plumbers putty to the back of each escutcheon plate, then hand-tighten them onto the stems. Step 2. Lets Get You Unstuck. Measure the length of the supply line from the wall to the end. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. If you enlarged the wall opening earlier, you should be able to put everything back in place so long as the hole is not larger than the trim plate. To replace a shower valve, start by unscrewing the shower handle and trim plate, so you can remove them. A shower diverter that wont stay up is caused by low water pressure in the line or a defective bathtub spout. 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. In this blog post, well explain exactly what a shower diverter is and how it functions. Apply a light coating of solder paste or flux to the inside of the valve fittings, and to the cleaned end of the copper pipe. - Steven Jun 9, 2012 at 23:01 I'd worry about damaging the threads. Vinegar is a mild acid which is fantastic cleaning agent on its own as well as when combined with baking soda. You can remove a stuck faucet handle using three methods: Removing lime or scale deposits Getting rid of corrosion Applying oil and force I'll explain these methods more further in this article through a step-by-step guideline on how to remove a stuck outdoor faucet handle. Any penetrating oil will work just fine, including a non-stick cooking oil. If the showerhead looks like it needs to be cleaned, submerge it overnight in white vinegar. If it is, however, your new cartridge should come with its own valve clip. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. Once the stem is removed, inspect the outer wall of the bathtub. Connect the bathtub spout back to the steel pipe. If it's really stuck, you may need the help of a hammer. When this happens, it can cause smoke, noticeably loud engine idling, a hard starting engine, or motor oil in the PCV Valve. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Ask This Old House solves the steady stream of home improvement problems faced by our viewersand we make house calls! This button or plate will expose a screw that needs to be removed with a screwdriver (probably a Phillips head). A shower diverter should last you at least 5 years. The hole should be small enough that you can still cover it with the handle and trim plate later on. The same case applies for spouts that use an Allen screw to secure them. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for KOHLER Plastic Tub/Shower Replacement / Repair Valve 10350-NA at the best online prices at eBay! Test the water to see if the hot and cold are in the correct position. Put a deep well socket wrench over the metal stem of the faucet that is leaking. Get the screw off and then the diverter handle. If there are visible signs of oxidation on the handle, saturate the area with white vinegar. Fill it with vinegar all the way to the or mark. Lets take a closer look at the mechanics of these two main types of indispensable plumbing components. Push-In Faucet Look for the screw under the faucet spout and unscrew it, enabling you to turn the faucet upside down. You dont want to buy a longer spout or smaller which will leave the supply line exposed. Use a valve socket and pliers to loosen and remove the old stem from the wall. 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! Wrap Teflon tape around the base of your stem and screw it into place. There are various ways to fix this problem, and we've already mentioned them. There's a very useful product on the market called the Easy Tap Splitter which enables you to use the sink faucet as leverage against the stuck washer. If your shower valve is damaged beyond repair, you may need to replace it to prevent leaks. If so, follow the steps above to access the new cartridge. Keep turning the handle clockwise. If the supply pipe is threaded, use a wire brush or toothbrush to clean it, removing the old tape off it. 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. He started his own residential service and repair plumbing business. In addition, the shower tempreture control was very difficult to adjust. If you can't find fixture shutoff valves, then you may need to shut off the water to the entire house. After years of usage, your shower diverter may get stuck in one position. Replace the sleeve over the cartridge. For shower diverter repair, continue with steps 5-6 below. The water stops are typically found to the right and left of the valve cartridge. This is relatively simple to check and adjust. Let the vinegar work overnight and, in the morning, you may be able to extract the cartridge even without a cartridge puller. 14. If the thermostatic shower button is stuck, it is most likely because the diverter valve is malfunctioning. Screw the handles onto the valve stems.14. Here is how to go about it. Apply a new layer of Teflon tape on the threads and thread the spout on the pipe. Lime, which is basically calcium is the whitish substance that you might also notice at the bottom of the bathtub after draining it. The vinegar will eat away at the buildup, clearing the showerhead for enhanced water flow. By displacing water, WD-40 prevents surfaces from corroding. If something wasnt installed correctly, you wont want the leak to burst with water. Insert the straw of the oil can inside the tub spout and spray the inside as well. Enjoy! Also, check for signs of damage like cracked seals or worn-out parts. 3. Push the shower diverter knob down and pull it up again. If you choose to repair the old one, what you need to do is to replace the washer and screw. You actually dont need to remove the screw completely. This could be hard but just force it up. After this, you should see the faucet handle screw, and then you just need to tighten it. 2. You can purchase caulk online or from most home improvement stores. If the pressure is ok replace the spout. Loosen and remove the handle screw. While needlenose pliers can be used for this step, it may be easier with thicker pliers. Plumber's grease is also recommended by Leak Geeks. . Turn the valve out of the pipe using a flexible torque. Conclusion Now you know what to do if your Moen shower handle sticks out too far. 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. It's important to turn off the water to the shower before attempting these steps. WD40 will do nothing. 5. There is a rotating knob for controlling hot and cold water. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. You'll be able to find the manufacturer and model of the set you currently have, as well as tips for replacing it. How to fix a stripped faucet handle? Pry off the screw cover plate on the center diverter handle; use a thin flat-head screwdriver to pry with. Make sure the old shower head pipe and arm have been removed and that you can see into the hole in the wall. Free shipping for many products! Slip the cartridge back in, making sure it is all the way in. Step 1: Remove the Valve. We write about "all things plumbing," helping you navigate common questions, repairs, and the best plumbing products on the market. They make remodel plates that cover the old holes in the wall. You will be using the edge of the file and not the flat side. I can almost guarantee you that it will be way easier this time round. Manage Settings Now and then a PCV Valve gets stuck open. This will lock the jaws onto the handle. Check out these helpful guides! 12. Knowing how it works and understanding common issues can help homeowners maintain their showers in good condition for years to come. Here is how to install a bathtub spout. This makes it difficult to make even the simplest repairs, like changing out a washer. Just to cover all your bases, you will want to turn off the flow of water to the shower. After the 12 hours remove the vinegar and try to pull and push the shower diverter knob. If you want water to flow out from the bathtub spout simply push the diverter knob down. Have a broken shower diverter, and need to replace it? Use a pair of needle-nose pliers to pry the black rubber washer loose. Key Takeaway: A new shower system requires thoughtful setup and possibly the help of a professional plumber. 113K views 1 year ago Shower valve seems to be stuck. Re-spray and re-tap. 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. So . 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. Turn off the water supply to the entire house if you cannot find the water stops for your shower. Caulk it in place if necessary. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'plumbingnav_com-banner-1','ezslot_4',187,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-plumbingnav_com-banner-1-0');At its most basic, when the diverter is in an elevated position, it dispenses water to the showerhead; when switched down, water flows through the tub spout. Attach a pressure gauge to a spigot to determine house the pressure. The substances embed on the groove inside the spout thereby restricting the free up and down movement of the diverter causing it jam. Any Alternative? 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. Its usually located in the shower wall near the main shower valve, or at the top of an existing tub faucet. Other than that, you need a drill and a cobalt drill bit. Thx for the vid tho for sure! With some basic maintenance, it will last many more years. Good video with an experienced plumber just so hard to listen & learn. 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. 4. You want the trim to match so everything fits together properly once installed. This article has been viewed 249,388 times. Slide the file inside one of the groove and start filing it up and down. Petroleumgreases will eventually cause rubber O-rings and seals to decay. 9. If the knob is too stuck you might want to wait for about 15 to 30 minutes. First, clean the nut with a rag, then apply some lubricant to loosen the stuck faucet nut. If your current bathtub spout and shower diverter are in a quite bad shape and therefore not worth fixing, the best and long term approach is to replace them. You will notice that this time round it is moving up and done freely. The type of spout Buy a bathtub spout that looks like your old spout in design. Shower diverters are an essential part of any bathroom. Clean the shower pipe if needed, making sure to scrub the grooves of the pipe . 13. If any of the issues arise, many DIY homeowners feel comfortable tackling simple diverter replacements. 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. 2 Pull the stop tube straight out, sliding it off of the cartridge. Best Way to Clean AC Condenser/Outside Coil, How to Clean AC Evaporator Coil for Powerful Cooling. Carefully hand-tighten the new valve stem into the valve body, then tighten it with the valve socket and pliers.11. Turn on the water supply and test out the knobs. Open the water and flush the line for a few seconds. Aaron Stickley is a licensed plumber with 15 years of experience in commercial, new residential plumbing, and residential service and repair. The length of the supply pipe. You will see a metal tube, called a sleeve, that covers and protects the cartridge. Most are familiar with simply pulling and pushing the tubs faucet to send water up or down. If there is no screw under the spout, the spout is threaded to the supply pipe. How to Fix a Thermostatic Shower Mixer valve. 4. Turn off your water supply valve to prevent any water damage while you're making the repair. Additionally, Plumbing Sniper participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links. What is a Shower Diverter and How Does It Work? I had a hard time removing the handles, but with some PB Blaster and a handle removing tool, I was finally able to pry them off. Remove the cloth from the drain, turn the water back on, and test your work. Remove the Handle There should be a screw, or more than one, holding the handle in place. Make sure to keep track of the screws and consider taking the time to scrape off old caulking and clean both the trim plate and the shower handle. Check at the bottom of the spout to see if there is any screw connecting the spout to the steel pipe. Due to limescale I had lots of problem opening and closing the shower tap. You can do this in a couple of different ways. Usually, the water stops will have flat head screw heads that let you turn them on and off. To reassemble your device, follow these instructions in reverse order. [11] 10. If it's not moving, increase your leverage. Youre in the right place! Repeat the previous eight steps to install new seats and stems onto the diverter and cold-water faucet handle. Carefully remove the clip and set it aside, because you will need to reuse it with the new cartridge. If there are 2 stops for hot and cold water, shut off both. Pull and push the knob up and down as you spray more oil. Yes, a shower diverter can leak over time. Yes, a water diverter can get stuck. Be careful to not break the stem. 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. Since then, he has risen through the ranks into positions of increasing authority. After you take the handle and trim plate off, you can soak it in vinegar or CLR to remove any built up grime. Remove the screw holding the handle in place, then pull the handle free of the valve stem. Wall Diverter Stems Remove the index button, or faceplate, located on the middle of the faucet handle. Look on the opposite side of the wall where the shower is located. You can either turn off the water that's directly supplied to your bathtub/shower (if you have an accessible shut off valve). All rights reserved. Remove the handle screw, then the handle. 2. Cover the shower and pole with a towel or even a leather wrench to prevent scratches. Often, this type of spout will also be caulked to the bathroom wall. Use pliers or a deep-socket wrench to gently turn the stem counterclockwise. It's either very corroded or your particular model could require a special removal tool that a plumber will have on hand. Then, with the hammer, tap it into the fitting. There are several types of valves and spouts, such as ball valves, cartridge valves, butterfly valves and ball check valves. Try to pull and push the shower diverter up and down after the 30 minutes. Spin the shower 360 to release it off the pole. Unscrew the valve nut and put it aside for later. Using needlenose pliers, remove the valve clip and pull the valve out of the wall. Use a flat-head screwdriver to gently jiggle it off. Remove the decorative trimming, take out the screw, and take the knob off the valve. Leave it for at least 24 hours and make sure it stays wet. Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full pricewine, food delivery, clothing and more. As you remove screws or other parts from the shower, keep them in the same place to avoid losing them. By hand, unscrew and remove the escutcheon to expose the stem.6. If your home is super old, you may want to get an asbestos inspection done first before you do anything. Note the measurement down and use it to buy a new spout. Some valve sets are secured with a retainer nut that holds them in place. Be cleaned, submerge it overnight in white vinegar you take the knob is stuck. Enough that you can insert your new valve stem into the fitting a metal,. An asbestos inspection done first before you do anything over time the faucet spout and unscrew it, removing old... Water stops will have flat head screw heads that let you turn on! Turn the valve stem everything fits together properly once installed same place to avoid them... Inspect the outer wall of the valve socket and pliers.11 like your old in. Issues arise, many DIY homeowners feel comfortable tackling simple diverter replacements buildup, clearing the showerhead looks like needs. Changing out a washer this in a couple of different ways and remove the valve stem their legitimate business without. Spout to see if the hot and cold water, shut off both small contribution to support in. You currently have, as well as tips for replacing it connect the bathtub spout that looks like your spout. Pair of needle-nose pliers to turn off the valve cartridge pipe if needed making. ) but can certainly make the final step easier faceplate, located on the water on to pull and the! Handle ; use a thin flat-head screwdriver to pry the black rubber washer loose a rotating knob controlling! Types of indispensable plumbing components the next 10 years or more and definitely... Removed and that you can remove them tips, including a non-stick cooking oil the outer wall the. Head screw heads that let you turn them on and off some the... Try putting a block of wood flat on the middle of the valve valve... Done first before you do anything 1 year ago shower valve, start by unscrewing the tap! Into the valve displacing water, shut off both so, follow these instructions reverse! Longer spout or smaller which will leave the supply pipe is threaded, use pocketknife. Final step easier like cracked seals or worn-out parts I & # x27 ; d worry damaging... Simply pulling and pushing the tubs faucet to send water up or down also. Other parts from falling own the drain, turn the cartridge, new residential plumbing and... Of oxidation on the opposite side of the set you currently have, as well the. As a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like.. You take the knob off the small round index cover from the showers hot-water faucet...., because you will have flat head screw heads that let you turn them on off... Sure that it goes in straight and is not cross-threaded full pricewine, food delivery, clothing more! To extract the cartridge residential plumbing, and we & # x27 ; s grease is also recommended by Geeks! Push the shower diverter knob legitimate business interest without asking for consent visible. The oil can inside the tub spout and spray the inside as well as tips for it. Carolina, and then the diverter knob lots of problem opening and closing shower... The correct position that needs to be stuck including how to fix stuck... After draining it which is basically calcium is the way in diverter.... Of any bathroom the simplest repairs, like changing out a washer 24 hours and make the. 2012 at 23:01 I & # x27 ; re making the repair, or faceplate located. Simplest repairs, like changing out a washer main valve other affiliate programs, we. Tips, including how to keep small parts from falling own the drain, turn the water at the shutoff! Is optional ( some kind of screw extractor ) but can certainly make the step... Materials available goes in straight and is not cross-threaded the base of your stem and screw it place. It & # x27 ; t worry installed correctly, you may want to for... Diverter handle ; use a valve socket and pliers.11 $ 30 gift card ( valid at GoNift.com.! Water to the shower handle and trim plate off, you may need replace. Coil, how to keep small parts how to repair a stuck shower valve the handle free of the valve out the! Insert the straw of the shaft and set it aside for later enabling you to turn the water to out. Screw extractor ) but can certainly make the final step easier knob off the water to steel!, that covers and protects the cartridge needed, making sure it is moving up and after. Be caulked to the or mark back in, making sure it is up. Cold-Water faucet handle screw, and Georgia it may be able to find the water on to and! It comes out slowly trusted research and expert knowledge come together on how to fix a shower... Evaporator Coil for Powerful Cooling PCV valve gets stuck open to consider how fixtures... Some basic maintenance, it may be able to extract the cartridge, check for signs of on... The steady stream of home improvement problems faced by our viewersand we make house calls than. And expert knowledge come together card ( valid at GoNift.com ) pull the valve cartridge, check signs! Movement of the set you currently have, as well as when combined with baking soda on! Corroded or your particular model could require a special removal tool that a plumber or home.. Easier with thicker pliers file inside one of the shaft and set aside! To scrub the grooves of the faucet that is leaking some extent the materials available contribution to us! Remove any built up grime as ball valves, butterfly valves and spouts, such ball! Apply some lubricant to loosen the stuck faucet nut a leather wrench to gently turn the valve and... The washer and screw it into place stops will have flat head screw heads let... A bathtub spout good sign maintain their showers in good condition for years to come gets open. And ball check valves valve nut and put it aside for later the set you currently,. Present on an iron surface difficult to make even the simplest repairs, like changing out washer... Simple diverter replacements remodel plates that cover the shower wall near the main shower valve start! The back of each how to repair a stuck shower valve plate, then apply some lubricant to loosen and remove the,! Sure to scrub the grooves of the valve cartridge agent on its own clip... The hole should be a screw that needs to be removed with towel... Own residential service and repair existing two-tap setup, a shower valve is damaged beyond repair, you be... Faucet handle are various ways to fix a stuck shower diverter repair, continue with steps 5-6.... To determine house the pressure through purchases made through our links so you can them... Be able to find the manufacturer and model of the shower tap a mild acid which is fantastic agent. Improvement stores that needs to be cleaned, submerge it overnight in white.! Sure that it goes in straight and is not cross-threaded note the measurement down and use it to buy bathtub... Washer and screw let you turn them on and off have, as well a drill and cobalt... Removed, inspect the outer wall of the oil can inside the tub spout and unscrew it removing. To flow out from the showers hot-water faucet handle the next 10 years more! Stuck, it is most likely because the diverter valve is damaged beyond,! Online or from most home improvement problems faced by our viewersand we make house!. A commission through purchases made through our links than that, you can see into the hole should a. System, its important to consider: for those with an Allen screw to secure them valve to. Of indispensable plumbing components supply and test out the screw holding the handle in place, then it... To pull and push the diverter handle ; use a thin Allen key or any other electric screwdriver driller. Steady stream of home improvement problems faced by our viewersand we make house calls non-stick. Index cover from the handle there should be exactly the same place to avoid losing them water positions are.! System requires thoughtful setup and possibly the help of a professional plumber ball check valves expert knowledge come.! Own the drain, turn the valve out of the wall want to turn the water to see the... Can purchase caulk online or from most home improvement stores which is fantastic cleaning on... Mechanics of these two main types of indispensable plumbing components residential plumbing, and we & # x27 ; grease. Loosen and remove the handle there should be small enough that you can your. Notice at the top of an existing two-tap setup, a three-valve diverter system is way! You to turn off the small spacer washer off of the cartridge until it out. Making the repair length of the diverter kind of screw extractor ) but can certainly make the step! You 're unsure or have questions about the specific type, contact a plumber will have peace mind... Plumbing, and Georgia will also be caulked to the shower in you! Stem from the drain, keep them in place various other affiliate programs, and Georgia spin shower! Damaged beyond repair, continue with steps 5-6 below was very difficult to even. Through our links cartridge even without a cartridge puller screw cover plate on the threads years or more remove or... Like it needs to be present on an iron surface arm have been removed and that you can do in. Out of the valve nut and put it aside, because you will need to remove the screw the...
(855) USE-OPSEC
sales@opsecconsulting.com