how to repair a stuck shower valvehow to repair a stuck shower valve

Spin the shower 360 to release it off the pole. Do the same thing again 180 degrees around the nut. If the showerhead looks like it needs to be cleaned, submerge it overnight in white vinegar. Step 5: Replace The Shower Arm. By hand, unscrew and remove the escutcheon to expose the stem. Use a pocketknife to pry off the small round index cover from the showers hot-water faucet handle. This allows you to have more control over your water pressure and water temperature in different areas of your bathroom, as well as directing water to multiple showerheads. Investigating the Safety of Vinyl Chloride in PVC Pipes for Drinking Water: What You Need to Know. Pull the shower diverter knob up. 5. 5. Make sure that it goes in straight and is not cross-threaded. 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. Free shipping for many products! Turn the water on to pull the diverter up and down to seat it. So . Other than that, you need a drill and a cobalt drill bit. We write about all things plumbing, helping you navigate common questions, repairs, and the best plumbing products on the market. 2. Next, separate the escutcheon from your shower wall, then remove it. Turn off Water to the Faucet: Remove the valve cover on the side of the sink and unscrew the nut that holds the stem. This way you can get a new single handle, pressure balanced faucet in there. Using a Phillips screwdriver, unthread the screw and remove the handle and adaptor from the valve stem. Lets Get You Unstuck. Each type of valve has its own unique characteristics. Sometimes there are easy answers. If this is the problem, it will also affect your shower head and you will notice that there is low water pressure coming out of your showerhead. 4. The file should have teeth on the edges as well. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Plumbing Sniper is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. Pry off the screw cover plate on the center diverter handle; use a thin flat-head screwdriver to pry with. You can purchase caulk online or from most home improvement stores. To check if your shower valve is sticking because of limescale buildup: The most widespread diverter valve is the three-valve design, featuring two distinct valves. Unscrew the handle to open the jaws. Use a flat-head screwdriver to gently jiggle it off. A stuck shower diverter is caused by debris, pipe corrosions and accumulation of mineral deposits in the bathtub spout. Then, shut the water off and cut a hole in the small opening behind the trim plate, so you can reach the valve. Expert Interview. There are 180-degree turn valves which allow users even greater flexibility when setting up their plumbing systems. Plus the necessary tools to do the job - I'm without. 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. Look on the opposite side of the wall where the shower is located. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers to pry the black rubber washer loose. If you want water to flow out from the bathtub spout simply push the diverter knob down. Youre in the right place! While needlenose pliers can be used for this step, it may be easier with thicker pliers. He specializes in estimating as well as design and engineering for plumbing systems, and he works for one of New York's largest union plumbing construction companies. In short, by manipulating the diverter, you can switch between directing water to your showerhead, hand shower, or bathtub spout. Secure the plastic bag to the spout using a rubber band. Feel free to watch. If it's really stuck, you may need the help of a hammer. Sometimes you are better off cutting out some tile and replacing the valve though. 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. Slip the cartridge back in, making sure it is all the way in. Remove the index button, or faceplate, located on the middle of the faucet handle. Want to tackle more plumbing projects? Repeat this process for the second shower knob. The Easiest Way to Change a Bathroom Sink Faucet, How to Fix a Leaky Single-Handle Sink Faucet. Turn off the water supply to the entire house if you cannot find the water stops for your shower. 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. Use a valve socket and pliers to loosen and remove the old stem from the wall. Let that sit for 30 minutes or so. Screw the handles onto the valve stems. Dave Jones is a Professional Plumber and the Midwest Regional Vice President at Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. All rights reserved. Once the clip is removed, you will need to remove the cartridge, which is a long tube. Use the diverter a few times. To avoid these problems, its important to maintain your shower diverter regularly by cleaning it with vinegar or another mild cleaner every few months. Open the water and flush the line for a few seconds. If you are unsure how to cut the opening, ask a professional repairman. 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. ; Step 3: Look At The Shower Arm Junction. Use a flat-head screwdriver to take off the small cover in the center of the diverter valve. By displacing water, WD-40 prevents surfaces from corroding. Pull and push the knob up and down as you spray more oil. The length of the supply pipe. A faucet or tap has two parts: a valve and a spout. You can also research how to cut a hole safely and easily into your wall's material on a verified home improvement site. \r\r Share this video with a friend:\rhttps://youtu.be/XzcOtLedgrQ\r\r SUBSCRIBE for videos weekly video on repairing, reviving and restoring: \rhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC49Sq1i3iGV-ITpygo0sm3g?sub_confirmation=1\r\r Recommended playlist of all videos:\rhttps://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6rlOQKpGLVkVqp8bELFzHT38nQSfaypm\r\rThe playlist above has a number of videos related to this content. Repeat the previous eight steps to install new seats and stems onto the diverter and cold-water faucet handle.12. If successful, take it to the store to buy a replacement of the same model. Were committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Here is how to lubricate a stuck shower diverter: For folks who live in areas with hard water, I expect the cause of the stuck shower diverter to be calcium build up. Step 1: Remove the Valve. This article has been viewed 249,388 times. Then, test the toughness of it with an Allen wrench - any movement is a good sign. Turn on a faucet to make sure it's off. You want the trim to match so everything fits together properly once installed. Check the condition of the showerhead and connecting pipe. Slide the sleeve off the valve. 8. Double-check the valve size and model to make sure it matches your old cartridge. Continue with Recommended Cookies. See video and video description on YouTube for details. If you're unsure or have questions about the specific type, contact a plumber or home repairman. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Drill a tap (screw extractor) into the center of the cartridge. 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. 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. % of people told us that this article helped them. Knowing how it works and understanding common issues can help homeowners maintain their showers in good condition for years to come. There are various ways to fix this problem, and we've already mentioned them. Why and What to Do, Why Your AC is Making Noises and How to Fix It. If you have trouble taking it out with the pliers, it may be corroded, so squirt some WD-40 onto it and try tugging on it to see if it's loosened up. This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey fixes a faulty shower valve with new valve stems and seats. While you wait for the spout to get all cleaned up, use a toothbrush or any other drain brush to clean inside the supply pipe where the spout was connected to. A shower diverter is a small knob on top of the bathtub spout that regulates the flow of water. Remove the Handle There should be a screw, or more than one, holding the handle in place. Detach the screw. Be careful not to scratch the finish. Dont be too aggressive as you do not want to file the body of the spout. There are 2 grooves inside the bathtub spout where the shower diverter is fitted allowing it to move up and down. By using our site, you agree to our. You can also call it a water diverter, because it diverts the flow or direction of water. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'plumbingnav_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_9',195,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-plumbingnav_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');Make sure that whatever style of diverter you choose matches up with your existing plumbing fixtures and shower faucet. For more tips, including how to keep small parts from falling own the drain, keep reading! What causes this though? - Steven Jun 9, 2012 at 23:01 I'd worry about damaging the threads. The choice depends on the severity of problems and to some extent the materials available. Due to limescale I had lots of problem opening and closing the shower. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. It means it's time to call in a professional plumber. It's important to turn off the water to the shower before attempting these steps. Multiple-head systems may require larger capacity than single-head designs do, and also need pressure balancing valves. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. You'd find a small screw inside that hole. It dissolves calcium deposits in faucets quite effectively and will definitely loosen a stuck shower diverter. Youll also need to make sure that your current plumbing setup is compatible with whichever valve model you select; some require additional piping if there isnt enough pressure from your existing supply line for proper operation. Sometimes the best wat to fix a sticky shower diverter is to soak the whole assembly in a bowl of vinegar. Don't be afraid to hit it pretty hard. Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter, Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Dash to the garage and grab a can of your favorite lubricating oil. How to fix Moen shower valve troubleshooting? If the pressure is ok replace the spout. Turn the valve out of the pipe using a flexible torque. Walking through the processing of fixing both issues. A simple standalone diverter may not cut it. You'll be able to find the manufacturer and model of the set you currently have, as well as tips for replacing it. Try to pull and push the shower diverter up and down after the 30 minutes. For shower diverter repair, continue with steps 5-6 below. There are 2 things that you really need to be careful about while buying a new bathtub faucet. If you choose to repair the old one, what you need to do is to replace the washer and screw. The vinegar will eat away at the buildup, clearing the showerhead for enhanced water flow. With some basic maintenance, it will last many more years. Thx for the vid tho for sure! In case you did not know, the WD in WD-40 stands for water displacement. Hard water is a challenge for many plumbing fixtures, including diverters. Get the screw off and then the diverter handle. People who live in areas with hard water, old houses with steel pipes and those who use water from a well are more susceptible to this problem. 10. Reply. 15. Should have been an easy fix. I had to really strain to listen to the point of just turning it off. Some valve sets are secured with a retainer nut that holds them in place. I can almost guarantee you that it will be way easier this time round. To use the tool, fit it onto the end of the cartridge and thread the puller screw into the end of the valve stem (the same part that accepts the valve handle). 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. Due to limescale I had lots of problem opening and closing the shower tap. After many years of usage, calcium builds up inside the spout, restricting the movement of the shower diverter. Richard Epstein is a licensed master plumber with over 40 years experience in residential and commercial plumbing. Use an old toothbrush and wooden pick to clean out debris. If not, it simply means you need to rotate the cartridge. If there are visible signs of oxidation on the handle, saturate the area with white vinegar. There is a rotating knob for controlling hot and cold water. Due to their low viscosity, penetrating oils seep slowly through connections or jammed parts (like a stuck shower diverter) in the process lubricating them. Check out these helpful guides! Although the process may differ a little per handle, virtually all single-handle, pull-out shower or tub faucets can be fixed with these steps. Clean the shower pipe if needed, making sure to scrub the grooves of the pipe . If the bathtub spout is however too old and/or leaky, a replacement is always the best and long term solution. This will reduce the risk of damaging the valve. Introduction Go to step 1 A nearly zero cost fix of a stuck shower valve. Take a flathead screwdriver and pry underneath the cover plate of the faucet. 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. Luckily, a stuck shower diverter can be easily fixed and doesnt always need to be replaced. I researched the internet and read taht it could be the rubber washer behind the valve stem, and to replace that. This is how to proceed: Look for a small (preferably clear) plastic bag. 5. Let the spout sit in the vinegar for 12 hours or overnight. If they are not, it simply means the cartridge needs to be rotated. Here is how to install a bathtub spout. If youre installing a new shower system, its important to consider how many fixtures you will need. 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. 9. Get daily tips and tricks for making your best home. 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! Check for any debris and remove it as necessary. Before replacing the old cartridge with the new one, use your finger to lubricate it with a light coating of silicone plumber's grease to make it easier to remove when it needs to be replaced. 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. If your valve cartridge will not slide into the wall or seems too small for the slot, you may have bought the wrong size. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Snap the index covers back onto the handles. Replace the old rubber washer with a new one. 2. Remove any excess putty that squeezes out. 1. Pull off the handle and set it aside. They make remodel plates that cover the old holes in the wall. Remove the wrench and nut from the valve. A shower diverter should last you at least 5 years. Wall Diverter Stems Sometimes instead of having a sticky shower diverter, you will notice that it wont stay up. c) Examine The Posi-Temp Valve You can buy a puller at your local hardware store for between $9 and $15. To be safe, plug off the bathtub drain so as not lose the screw down the drain. To remove a stuck faucet handle, first close or cover the drain to avoid losing any screws or small parts. 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. Snap the index covers back onto the handles.15. We write about "all things plumbing," helping you navigate common questions, repairs, and the best plumbing products on the market. Clogs occur when mineral deposits or debris build up in the diverter valve; this is especially common if your home has hard water. 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. 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. WD-40 is however not the only penetrating oil you can use. Remove the decorative trimming, take out the screw, and take the knob off the valve. See this guide to fix a stuck shower diverter. Screwdriver or Driller Hammer Other Required OEM Parts Faucet grease Step #1: There's a small hole beneath the handle puller. Pull it out using your hand or tug on it with needle-nose pliers. Remove the screw holding the handle in place, then pull the handle free of the valve stem. If applicable, rotate the cover counterclockwise to remove. The same case applies for spouts that use an Allen screw to secure them. Leave the solution in place for 12 hours or preferably overnight. Use a torch to heat up the middle of the fitting. Using a pair of pliers, pull the U-shaped cartridge retainer clip off of the valve body. This will prevent screws or other small parts from falling in while you work on the valve. Put on your protective eyewear (better safe than sorry). My shower is doing exactly what he first stated. If you can't remove the cartridge, it could mean it's too corroded to remove. Then, with the hammer, tap it into the fitting. Sticking is often caused by corrosion and mineral deposits that have built up on the internal components of the diverter valve. Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full pricewine, food delivery, clothing and more. Aaron's articles about plumbing on The Spruce span four years. Keep turning the handle clockwise. Brush pipe-thread sealant onto the threaded end of the new stem seat.9. 1 Cover the shower drain with a washcloth. Carefully hand-tighten the new valve stem into the valve body, then tighten it with the valve socket and pliers. If it is, however, your new cartridge should come with its own valve clip. 29 March 2021. This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey fixes a faulty shower valve with new valve stems and seats. 3. We reviewed the best options here. Unsticking valves in faucets can do damage to the faucet as well as the basin. 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. Insert the end of the pipe all the way into the adapter. If you use a bathtub-shower-combo then you definitely have a shower diverter on your bathtub spout. After years of usage, your shower diverter may get stuck in one position. Remove the Clip The first step to faucet repair is to identify the product you are working with. Remove the handle screw, then the handle. (See below for a shopping list, tools, and steps. Remove any excess putty that squeezes out.13. Aaron Stickley is a licensed plumber with 15 years of experience in commercial, new residential plumbing, and residential service and repair. Some pull-out shower faucet handles (also called pull-push shower faucet handles) can slowly become harder to use over time. Repeat as often as necessary to get it cleaned up. It is a fantastic design that allows you to have a bathtub as a shower cubicle especially for people with small bathrooms. 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. Since then, he has risen through the ranks into positions of increasing authority. There are often access panels for this. 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. Shower valve seems to be stuck. Were passionate about all things plumbing, and love sharing tips, how-to, and reviewing the latest products to help make your project a success! Slide the small spacer washer off of the shaft and set it aside with the retainer clip. Loosen and remove the handle screw. WD40 will do nothing. Use the wire brush to clean the inside of the fitting. Yes, a shower diverter can leak over time. Caulk it in place if necessary. You can unstick the faucet nut with the correct faucet stem removal tool to prevent damage to the shell. The hole should be small enough that you can still cover it with the handle and trim plate later on. Spray the penetrating oil directly on the shower diverter knob at the top of the bathtub spout. Replace the washer and screw. 10. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. 2. If it is impossible to remove the cartridge, don't force it out of the handle. Screw the handles onto the valve stems.14. When you . Any penetrating oil will work just fine, including a non-stick cooking oil. 113K views 1 year ago Shower valve seems to be stuck. Turn off the water at the water main or wherever it enters the house. After you take the handle and trim plate off, you can soak it in vinegar or CLR to remove any built up grime. There are 2 common types of bathtub spouts. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Apply plumbers putty to the back of each escutcheon plate, then hand-tighten them onto the stems. Wait a few minutes, then it should slide out more easily. Replace the handle hardware. A shower diverter acts like a gate inside the bathtub spout. If there is water inside or on top of the spout, use a rag or towel to dry it completely. Steps. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 249,388 times. For more tips, including how to keep small parts from falling own the drain, keep reading! 2 Take the shower handle off. Ask This Old House solves the steady stream of home improvement problems faced by our viewersand we make house calls! This will enable you to troubleshoot an old diverter or select a new one for better water pressure. It's either very corroded or your particular model could require a special removal tool that a plumber will have on hand. We will also discuss some common problems with shower diverters. It's also a good idea to spray it with WD 40. Let set for 5-10 minutes. YouTuber pro - If any of the issues arise, many DIY homeowners feel comfortable tackling simple diverter replacements. They can easily switch between multiple outlets simply by turning the handle 180 degrees. Using a flat-blade screwdriver, gently pry the plug button from the front of the valve trim. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d2\/Replace-a-Shower-Valve-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Replace-a-Shower-Valve-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d2\/Replace-a-Shower-Valve-Step-1.jpg\/aid9752157-v4-728px-Replace-a-Shower-Valve-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"