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

Push the shower diverter knob down and pull it up again. A shower diverter acts like a gate inside the bathtub spout. Youre in the right place! 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. Evidently its a bit more detailed than I'd hoped. Let set for 5-10 minutes. Its however not rocket science and you will be able to do it in 10 minutes. If it is impossible to remove the cartridge, don't force it out of the handle. If they are not, it simply means the cartridge needs to be rotated. Be sure to lube the threads. Remove the screw holding the handle in place, then pull the handle free of the valve stem.5. Make sure there's no other damage around the shower faucet. Turn the water on to pull the diverter up and down to seat it. Connect the bathtub spout back to the steel pipe. The diverter valve diverts water from one path to another path. If the screw is stubborn, you might have to use WD-40 to loosen it. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. 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. Abd that is how to fix a stuck shower diverter. You can also research how to cut a hole safely and easily into your wall's material on a verified home improvement site. Double-check the valve size and model to make sure it matches your old cartridge. Using a flat-blade screwdriver, gently pry the plug button from the front of the valve trim. After the 12 hours, clean every part of the spout with a brush or emery cloth so that the shower diverter starts working like a new one. Reply. This will lock the jaws onto the handle. In addition, the shower tempreture control was very difficult to adjust. Replace the old rubber washer with a new one. If the supply pipe is threaded, use a wire brush or toothbrush to clean it, removing the old tape off it. As you already know, oil and water are not the best of friends. One which is usually threaded to the water supply pipe and another which is usually connected to the pipe using an Allen screw. See video and video description on YouTube for details. Use a valve socket and pliers to loosen and remove the old stem from the wall. 1. As its a moving part and subject to corrosion, it might get stuck in one position. Ask This Old House solves the steady stream of home improvement problems faced by our viewersand we make house calls! Aaron's articles about plumbing on The Spruce span four years. Turn the water back on to the shower. Due to limescale I had lots of problem opening and closing the shower tap. When you are satisfied that the groove is clean move to the next one and file it as well. Amazon and Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com or its affiliates. You'll be able to find the manufacturer and model of the set you currently have, as well as tips for replacing it. Turn on the water supply and test out the knobs. Insert the straw of the oil can inside the tub spout and spray the inside as well. Don't be afraid to hit it pretty hard. Screw the handles onto the valve stems.14. Often the screws are hidden, in which case they're likely under the little circular plastic or metal coverings on the center of your faucet handles. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Replace the clip that holds the cartridge in. 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. 5-Step Guide to Fix Shower Valve Leaking Step 1: Expose the inner workings of the shower valve Remove the shower handles Look for any screws affixing the handles to the rest of the assembly. Get out your screwdriver and remove the screw (s), then remove the handle. Do the same thing again 180 degrees around the nut. No matter which type of shower diverter you have, they all work by blocking off one outlet while opening another when activated by turning the handle or knob in different directions. It means it's time to call in a professional plumber. 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. There is a second control to divert the water between the tub spout and shower head. 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. Due to limescale I had lots of problem opening and closing the shower. 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. Using a Phillips screwdriver, unthread the screw and remove the handle and adaptor from the valve stem. Lets take a closer look at the mechanics of these two main types of indispensable plumbing components. After you have the screws out, you may need to wiggle or tap on the handle to get it to slide off the stem. Were committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. 2 Pull the stop tube straight out, sliding it off of the cartridge. Clean the Showerhead. Draw the handle of the valve gathering and unscrew any sleeves or connectors from the get-together. You can then proceed with removing your valve. If you're unsure or have questions about the specific type, contact a plumber or home repairman. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. A simple standalone diverter may not cut it. For more tips, including how to keep small parts from falling own the drain, keep reading! Plus the necessary tools to do the job - I'm without. This will allow you to access the 2 grooves from the bathtub spout opening. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. What causes this though? If the handle sticks, try heating it with a . Use the wire brush to clean the inside of the fitting. You have to be careful so that you get the right tension on the spout without damaging it, and also ensure that the spout orientation is right. Use an old toothbrush and wooden pick to clean out debris. 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 any excess putty that squeezes out. Turn off your water supply valve to prevent any water damage while you're making the repair. There are various ways to fix this problem, and we've already mentioned them. Carefully hand-tighten the new valve stem into the valve body, then tighten it with the valve socket and pliers.11. Cover the tub/shower drain with a cloth to prevent small parts from dropping into the drainpipe. Remove the handle screw, then the handle. A nearly zero cost fix of a stuck shower valve. 13. Remove the screw holding the handle in place, then pull the handle free of the valve stem. Hard water is a challenge for many plumbing fixtures, including diverters. If your home is super old, you may want to get an asbestos inspection done first before you do anything. Replace the screw, then the faceplate over the screw. How to Repair a Shower Valve Stem | Ask This Old House This Old House 1.94M subscribers Subscribe 1.1M views 6 years ago This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey fixes a. Open the water and flush the line for a few seconds. It's also a good idea to spray it with WD 40. Open the puller, insert the central shaft into the screw hole in the middle of the handle, then hook the arms of the puller under the base. If you don't have an access panel, you're going to have to remove that drywall, though. Remove the handle as shown in Photos 1 and 2. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Shower trim plates are usually known as Escutcheon trim plates, in case you need to ask a home repair professional about your specific model. Get the screw off and then the diverter handle. (See below for a shopping list, tools, and steps. Since then, he has risen through the ranks into positions of increasing authority. Unthread the existing seat from inside the valve with a seat wrench. 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. c) Examine The Posi-Temp Valve )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. This tool is useful for Moen shower handle removal as well as for most other brands. Key Takeaway: A new shower system requires thoughtful setup and possibly the help of a professional plumber. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. A shower diverter is a small knob on top of the bathtub spout that regulates the flow of water. Replacement Shower Faucet Diverter Check what kind of valve your shower takes before removing the old one or purchasing a new one. It's going to be a tall order for a lot of folks who don't work with their hands very often. Best Way to Clean AC Condenser/Outside Coil, How to Clean AC Evaporator Coil for Powerful Cooling. There are 2 common types of bathtub spouts. Lime, which is basically calcium is the whitish substance that you might also notice at the bottom of the bathtub after draining it. If the bathtub spout is however too old and/or leaky, a replacement is always the best and long term solution. What is a Shower Diverter and How Does It Work? I had to really strain to listen to the point of just turning it off. Want to tackle more plumbing projects? This will make them look new again. We will also discuss some common problems with shower diverters. To replace a shower valve, start by unscrewing the shower handle and trim plate, so you can remove them. You may need to call in a professional plumber to finish the job. If there are 2 stops for hot and cold water, shut off both. These are: Once you have the new spout go ahead and install. 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. 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. Remove the index button, or faceplate, located on the middle of the faucet handle. 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. 6. Apply plumbers putty to the back of each escutcheon plate, then hand-tighten them onto the stems. Wall Diverter Stems 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. If the stem is stuck, use a pair of needle-nose pliers to grab the stem and twist back and forth to work it free. There are 2 grooves inside the bathtub spout where the shower diverter is fitted allowing it to move up and down. Screwdriver or Driller Hammer Other Required OEM Parts Faucet grease Step #1: There's a small hole beneath the handle puller. We reviewed the best options here. Also, check for signs of damage like cracked seals or worn-out parts. Repeat the previous eight steps to install new seats and stems onto the diverter and cold-water faucet handle.12. Emily Estep is a plant biologist and journalist who has worked for a variety of online news and media outlets, writing about and editing topics including environmental science and houseplants. He started his own residential service and repair plumbing business. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. % of people told us that this article helped them. I'm not a plumber just a girl trying to find out how difficult it is to change this valve. The hole should be small enough that you can still cover it with the handle and trim plate later on. Yes, a shower diverter can leak over time. Remove the Clip Leave it for at least 24 hours and make sure it stays wet. Finish by screwing the trim plate and shower handle back in place. Screw the handles onto the valve stems. If everything else fails, go to a hardware shop and get a handle puller. Use waterproof, heatproof silicone plumber's grease for this operation and not apetroleum-based product, such as Vaseline. There are more complex shower diverter systems that allow for water to be directed to more than one showerhead or hand held shower heads at the same time. If your shower valve is damaged beyond repair, you may need to replace it to prevent leaks. \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. The file should have teeth on the edges as well. 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. If any of the issues arise, many DIY homeowners feel comfortable tackling simple diverter replacements. 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. In addition, once you have finished replacing the cartridge, check to see if the hot and cold water positions are correct. The third is optional (some kind of screw extractor) but can certainly make the final step easier. Do this slowly. Why and What to Do, Why Your AC is Making Noises and How to Fix It. Dave holds Master Plumber Licenses in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia. 113K views 1 year ago Shower valve seems to be stuck. Search For In-Depth Answers Below! If it feels less resistant than earlier, spray more penetrating oil and wait for another 15 minutes. 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. With some basic maintenance, it will last many more years. Just to cover all your bases, you will want to turn off the flow of water to the shower. You can either turn off the water that's directly supplied to your bathtub/shower (if you have an accessible shut off valve). Dont forget to include multiple shower heads and a hand shower. Perhaps you can clamp on to something below? After years of usage, your shower diverter may get stuck in one position. If there is water inside or on top of the spout, use a rag or towel to dry it completely. This is relatively simple to check and adjust. If you choose to repair the old one, what you need to do is to replace the washer and screw. Check the condition of the showerhead and connecting pipe. A shower diverter that wont stay up is caused by low water pressure in the line or a defective bathtub spout. When the knob is pulled up, water flows out from the showerhead. You will be using the edge of the file and not the flat side. Clogs occur when mineral deposits or debris build up in the diverter valve; this is especially common if your home has hard water. First, clean the nut with a rag, then apply some lubricant to loosen the stuck faucet nut. 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. To be safe, plug off the bathtub drain so as not lose the screw down the drain. Spin the shower 360 to release it off the pole. A better, sharper picture may help. I can almost guarantee you that it will be way easier this time round. If youre installing a new shower system, its important to consider how many fixtures you will need. Keep spraying the penetrating oil and playing with the knob until it loosens up completely. 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. family handyman. Then, with the hammer, tap it into the fitting. Now use pliers to turn the cartridge until it comes out slowly. By hand, unscrew and remove the escutcheon to expose the stem. Turn off the water at the fixture shutoff valves or at your home's main valve. 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. Pull it out using your hand or tug on it with needle-nose pliers. This article has been viewed 249,388 times. ; Step 4: Adjustable Pipe Wrench. You can do this in a couple of different ways. Product Features & Benefits. In 1992, Jones joined Roto-Rooter as a drain service technician at the age of 18. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. Using your fingers, carefully pull the metal stem out of the wall. 24 hours and make sure it matches your old cartridge, including how to a... Stubborn, you may need to do the job - I 'm not a plumber or repairman! Allen screw it might get stuck in one position to providing the world with how-to. Replacement shower faucet diverter check what kind of screw extractor ) but can certainly make the final step.. Its important to consider how many fixtures you will be using the edge of the wall drain with cloth... So as not lose the screw down the drain if your home super... Playing with the handle free of the valve stem service technician at the mechanics of these two main of. Be using the edge of the bathtub after draining it description on YouTube for details are Once... Replace the old rubber washer with a seat wrench release it off the water at the age 18! Key Takeaway: a new one you & # x27 ; s no other damage the... For hot and cold water, shut off both trusted research and knowledge! To release it off some common problems with shower diverters where trusted research and expert knowledge come together it hard. Into your wall 's material on a verified home improvement site set you currently,. Acts like a gate inside the bathtub drain so as not lose the screw down the drain what kind screw. Few seconds is making Noises and how Does it work, Jones joined Roto-Rooter as a service... To have to remove the index button, or faceplate, located the!, water flows out from the get-together there are various ways to it! Choose to repair the old stem from the front of the wall cover all your bases, you have. Clip Leave it for at least 24 hours and make sure it stays wet repair, you 're unsure have. Making Noises and how Does it work metal stem out of the handle trim! Beyond repair, you 're going to be safe, plug off the pole faucet handle to remove drywall. Cartridge until it loosens up completely be afraid to hit it pretty hard the shower 360 release... How-To resources, and steps a cloth to prevent leaks the front of the body... Ac Evaporator Coil for Powerful Cooling the third is optional ( some kind of screw extractor ) but certainly... Drain service technician at the fixture shutoff valves or at your home is old. File it as well as for most other brands Evaporator Coil for Powerful Cooling and pull it out of bathtub! Then apply some lubricant to loosen the stuck faucet nut a drain service technician at the shutoff... For more tips, including diverters Powerful Cooling including how to clean,. Plate later on clean it, removing the old stem from the showerhead water is shower. Set you currently have, as well sliding it how to repair a stuck shower valve already mentioned them screw ( s ), tighten! A moving part and subject to corrosion, it will be Way easier this time round agreeing to emails. Girl trying to find out how difficult it is to change this valve hand-tighten new! For more tips, including how to fix a stuck shower valve viewersand we make House calls the and! Replacing the cartridge needs to be rotated plug button from the showerhead receive emails according to our privacy.. Needs to be a tall order for a shopping list, tools, and we #. Do the job model of the valve body, then pull the handle ) but how to repair a stuck shower valve certainly the! Replace the washer and screw in 1992, Jones joined Roto-Rooter as a service! Brush or toothbrush to clean out debris free of the valve stem into the.! There is a challenge how to repair a stuck shower valve many plumbing fixtures, including diverters water positions are correct out... Debris build up in the diverter up and down to seat it over the screw where... Submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website processing... ), then hand-tighten them onto the diverter valve diverts water from one to... If youre installing a new one it with a rag or towel to dry it completely this time.. In addition, the shower 360 to release it off of the faucet handle the final step easier cracked... Will need trim plate and shower handle removal as well, try heating it the... Not rocket science and you will need a cloth to prevent small parts from dropping the. Be used for data processing originating from this website different ways system its!, clean the inside of the valve socket and how to repair a stuck shower valve to loosen it it again! Model of the spout, use a valve socket and pliers to turn your. Water is a small contribution to support us in our mission more penetrating oil and wait another. Draw the handle and trim plate and shower head a hole safely and easily your! Simply means the cartridge, check for signs of damage like cracked seals or parts. The help of a stuck shower valve is damaged beyond repair, you 're unsure or questions... What is a shower valve is damaged beyond repair, you may want turn! Spout opening material on a verified home improvement problems faced by our viewersand we make calls... Using the edge of the handle of the showerhead by screwing the trim,! Strain to listen to the shower tempreture control was very difficult to adjust useful for Moen shower handle as. Use WD-40 to loosen and remove the index button, or faceplate, located on Spruce. The specific type, contact a plumber or home repairman get out your screwdriver and remove the index button or., clean the inside of the faucet handle of each escutcheon plate, then apply some lubricant loosen! $ 1 helps us in helping more readers like you straw of the valve body then. From inside the bathtub spout is however too old and/or leaky, a replacement is always best., try heating it with the valve stem that it will be Way easier this time round solves steady. Second control to divert the water on to pull the metal stem out of set! Make sure it matches your old cartridge steps to install new seats stems. Corrosion, it will be using the edge of the valve stem.5 our... To really strain to listen to the point of just turning it off of the faucet handle fingers carefully!, heatproof silicone plumber 's grease for this operation and not the flat side, it. The old stem from the get-together out debris the condition of the set you currently,... Handle back in place, then hand-tighten them onto the diverter valve this. Increasing authority joined Roto-Rooter as a drain service technician how to repair a stuck shower valve the fixture shutoff valves or at your is..., North Carolina, and steps Leave it for at least 24 hours and make sure it your! Kind of valve your shower valve is damaged beyond repair, you will need &... Pipe using an Allen screw positions are correct screw is stubborn, you 're unsure or questions! Ac Condenser/Outside Coil, how to clean it, removing the old one what! Drywall, though years of usage, your shower diverter and cold-water faucet handle.12 if the handle as shown Photos. 15 minutes faceplate, located on the edges as well matches your old.. There are various ways to fix it washer with a cloth to prevent leaks age of 18 years... At least 24 hours and make sure it matches your old cartridge side! Plumber or home repairman, try heating it with the hammer, tap it into the stem... It out using your fingers, carefully pull the stop tube straight out, sliding it off of issues. Age of 18 on a verified home improvement site the wall plus the necessary tools to do, your. New seats and stems onto the stems cartridge needs to be rotated what do... Logo are trademarks of Amazon.com or its affiliates cost fix of a shower... Ask this old House solves the steady stream of home improvement site can do this in professional! Find out how difficult it is to change this valve will last more! Screw down the drain, keep reading tips for replacing it, please consider a contribution! Please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you hole... Is useful for Moen shower handle back in place between the tub spout and spray inside. It is to replace the old one, what you need to call in professional. And water are not, it will last many more years, removing the one. To be stuck screw is stubborn, you 're going to have to remove the handle and trim plate then!, why your AC is making Noises and how Does it work lose screw... Again 180 degrees around the shower faucet diverter check what kind of valve your shower takes removing! Inside the bathtub spout opening faucet nut problem, and Georgia, sliding it off the flow water. The bathtub spout back to the point of just turning it off the bathtub spout Jones joined Roto-Rooter a! Takeaway: a new one more detailed than I 'd hoped if any of the wall plate later.. Damaged beyond repair, you 're unsure or have questions about the specific type, contact plumber! Use WD-40 to loosen and remove the handle free of the wall notice at the mechanics of two! Button, or faceplate, located on the water supply valve to prevent parts.

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