how to repair a stuck shower valve

See video and video description on YouTube for details. 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. This will prevent screws or other small parts from falling in while you work on the valve. 1. Turn on the water supply and test out the knobs. Step 1: Remove the Valve. Fix something that looks hard to repair. When you . Also, check for signs of damage like cracked seals or worn-out parts. Pull it out using your hand or tug on it with needle-nose pliers. You can either turn off the water that's directly supplied to your bathtub/shower (if you have an accessible shut off valve). If youre installing a new shower system, its important to consider how many fixtures you will need. Replace the washer and screw. It is a fantastic design that allows you to have a bathtub as a shower cubicle especially for people with small bathrooms. How to fix a stripped faucet handle? Insert the end of the pipe all the way into the adapter. A shower diverter is an important component of a bathroom plumbing system. Screw the handles onto the valve stems.14. Evidently its a bit more detailed than I'd hoped. Apply plumbers putty to the back of each escutcheon plate, then hand-tighten them onto the stems. Why are there two valves to shut off if there's only one water line? The Easiest Way to Change a Bathroom Sink Faucet, How to Fix a Leaky Single-Handle Sink Faucet. If it is impossible to remove the cartridge, don't force it out of the handle. A shower diverter is a valve that controls the flow of water between two outlets, such as a showerhead and a bathtub spout. This is relatively simple to check and adjust. You will be using the edge of the file and not the flat side. By using our site, you agree to our. 8. Draw the handle of the valve gathering and unscrew any sleeves or connectors from the get-together. A penetrating oil like WD-40 works magic in loosen tight connections as well as preventing rust and thats why you will never miss it in any garage. If it's really stuck, you may need the help of a hammer. How to Fix a Thermostatic Shower Mixer valve. Wrap a rag that has been soaked in a 50% solution of distilled white vinegar around the area of the set screw. After you have the screws out, you may need to wiggle or tap on the handle to get it to slide off the stem. We will also discuss some common problems with shower diverters. Remove the Sleeve You will see a metal tube, called a sleeve, that covers and protects the cartridge. One which is usually threaded to the water supply pipe and another which is usually connected to the pipe using an Allen screw. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Here is how to install a bathtub spout. There are 2 common types of bathtub spouts. You will notice that this time round it is moving up and done freely. To check if your shower valve is sticking because of limescale buildup: If not, it simply means you need to rotate the cartridge. Aaron's articles about plumbing on The Spruce span four years. Blast hot water through the spout to remove all the loosely attached calcium deposits. Make sure that it goes in straight and is not cross-threaded. 5. 2. 5. Replacement Shower Faucet Diverter This article has been viewed 249,388 times. After many years of usage, calcium builds up inside the spout, restricting the movement of the shower diverter. Secure the plastic bag to the spout using a rubber band. 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. 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. Before cutting the wall open to replace the faucet so try more penetrating oil and wiggling & pulling first. ; Step 4: Adjustable Pipe Wrench. Leaks happen when seals or gaskets wear out over time. This is how to proceed: Look for a small (preferably clear) plastic bag. If you are unsure how to cut the opening, ask a professional repairman. This gives you access to the screw. Heat again and attempt to unscrew while hot. A faucet or tap has two parts: a valve and a spout. 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. Repeat the previous eight steps to install new seats and stems onto the diverter and cold-water faucet handle. Remove the screw holding the control handle on the fixture, found either at the base of the handle or under the top amidst the handle. Cover the tub/shower drain with a cloth to prevent small parts from dropping into the drainpipe. . 15. It's important to turn off the water to the shower before attempting these steps. Cover the tub/shower drain with a cloth to prevent small parts from dropping into the drainpipe.3. If there is no screw under the spout, the spout is threaded to the supply pipe. WD-40 is however not the only penetrating oil you can use. )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. You can buy a puller at your local hardware store for between $9 and $15. There are many things that can cause a shower valve to become stuck in place. 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. 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! If required, twist the screws with a wrench. Drill a tap (screw extractor) into the center of the cartridge. I am sure one of this 5 ideas will work perfectly for you. Amazon and Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com or its affiliates. Shower valve seems to be stuck. 10. This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey fixes a faulty shower valve with new valve stems and seats. Purchase a faucet puller if all else fails. The hole should be small enough that you can still cover it with the handle and trim plate later on. If the showerhead looks like it needs to be cleaned, submerge it overnight in white vinegar. Additionally, Plumbing Sniper participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links. For this reason, stick with similar brands when possible. Then, with the hammer, tap it into the fitting. If there is water inside or on top of the spout, use a rag or towel to dry it completely. Get out your screwdriver and remove the screw (s), then remove the handle. Once the spout is out, put it inside a bowl and add vinegar until evert part of the spout is immersed in the vinegar. Wrap a rag or duct tape around the spout (so as not to scratch it) and loosen it with an adjustable wrench by turning it counterclockwise. A shower diverter should last you at least 5 years. Fill it with vinegar all the way to the or mark. In short, by manipulating the diverter, you can switch between directing water to your showerhead, hand shower, or bathtub spout. If you tug gently and it's stuck, you can use a special cartridge . Using needlenose pliers, remove the valve clip and pull the valve out of the wall. Repeat as often as necessary to get it cleaned up. If you can't remove the cartridge, it could mean it's too corroded to remove. % of people told us that this article helped them. Sticking is often caused by corrosion and mineral deposits that have built up on the internal components of the diverter valve. You will see a metal tube, called a sleeve, that covers and protects the cartridge. You can also call it a water diverter, because it diverts the flow or direction of water. You want the trim to match so everything fits together properly once installed. 10. A better, sharper picture may help. Lime, which is basically calcium is the whitish substance that you might also notice at the bottom of the bathtub after draining it. Then you will need to use the pliers to remove the clip (or nut) that holds the cartridge in place. Pull off the . Screwdriver or Driller Hammer Other Required OEM Parts Faucet grease Step #1: There's a small hole beneath the handle puller. I go through repairing, cleaning, maintaining shower valves. For more tips, including how to keep small parts from falling own the drain, keep reading! 6-function shower head and hand shower with full body spray, massage spray, full spray with massage spray, focus spray, full spray with focus spray, and pause. To avoid these problems, its important to maintain your shower diverter regularly by cleaning it with vinegar or another mild cleaner every few months. Connect the bathtub spout back to the steel pipe. The good things is that all the materials needed for this job are readily available in most homes. Tighten The Faucet Handle While reasons vary for a shower continuing to run, you should start with the easiest solutions. Get daily tips and tricks for making your best home. I'm not a plumber just a girl trying to find out how difficult it is to change this valve. We write about all things plumbing, helping you navigate common questions, repairs, and the best plumbing products on the market. Turn off the water at the water main or wherever it enters the house. Use a flat-head screwdriver to gently jiggle it off. Replace the screw, then the faceplate over the screw. Yes, a shower diverter can leak over time. Check the condition of the showerhead and connecting pipe. 13. In addition, once you have finished replacing the cartridge, check to see if the hot and cold water positions are correct. If the screw is stubborn, you might have to use WD-40 to loosen it. Product Features & Benefits. Remove the handle as shown in Photos 1 and 2. Just to cover all your bases, you will want to turn off the flow of water to the shower. Plus the necessary tools to do the job - I'm without. A simple standalone diverter may not cut it. Key Takeaway: A new shower system requires thoughtful setup and possibly the help of a professional plumber. A shower diverter acts like a gate inside the bathtub spout. Shower diverters are an essential part of any bathroom. Note the measurement down and use it to buy a new spout. Youll gain the knowledge to make informed decisions about maintaining your homes tub and shower function. Spin the shower 360 to release it off the pole. 29 March 2021. If you use a bathtub-shower-combo then you definitely have a shower diverter on your bathtub spout. Look for a small (preferably clear) plastic bag. Yes, a water diverter can get stuck. Abd that is how to fix a stuck shower diverter. Free shipping for many products! 2. Gently pry it with a flat-bladed screwdriver if necessary. As you already know, oil and water are not the best of friends. Then, shut the water off and cut a hole in the small opening behind the trim plate, so you can reach the 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. Replace the sleeve over the cartridge. Let that sit for 30 minutes or so. What causes this though? Remove the Faucet Handle: Unscrew the retaining ring at the top of the faucet handle and pull it out. 7. If they are not, it simply means the cartridge needs to be rotated. 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. Using a flat-blade screwdriver, gently pry the plug button from the front of the valve trim. Next, separate the escutcheon from your shower wall, then remove it. With some basic maintenance, it will last many more years. Grab a set of Allen wrenches and use the correct size to loosen the screw. Good video with an experienced plumber just so hard to listen & learn. Insert the straw of the oil can inside the tub spout and spray the inside as well. The file should have teeth on the edges as well. Best Way to Clean AC Condenser/Outside Coil, How to Clean AC Evaporator Coil for Powerful Cooling. Test the water to see if the hot and cold are in the correct position. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. As you remove screws or other parts from the shower, keep them in the same place to avoid losing them. Once the nut is removed, you can pull the stem away from the wall. Dave holds Master Plumber Licenses in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia. Most are familiar with simply pulling and pushing the tubs faucet to send water up or down. Sometimes the best wat to fix a sticky shower diverter is to soak the whole assembly in a bowl of vinegar. Use a valve socket and pliers to loosen and remove the old stem from the wall. Slip the cartridge back in, making sure it is all the way in. Turn off your water supply valve to prevent any water damage while you're making the repair. 4. A common cause of stuck shower valves is due to limescale buildup inside the handle and stem, causing it to stick. Fill it with vinegar all the way to the or mark. Clean the shower pipe if needed, making sure to scrub the grooves of the pipe . Just loosen it and slide the spout out. Be sure to lube the threads. If the faucet handle is still stuck, find the set screw and use an Allen wrench to . Dont be too aggressive as you do not want to file the body of the spout. 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. 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. Remove the wrench and nut from the valve. This will reduce the risk of damaging the valve. 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. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. The water stops are typically found to the right and left of the valve cartridge. ; Step 2: Twist The Shower Arm Off. 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. The other valve controls whether the water flow goes through either an integrated diverter, which controls both outlets at once. I can almost guarantee you that it will be way easier this time round. There are often access panels for this. Now and then a PCV Valve gets stuck open. By so doing you will have peace of mind for the next 10 years or more. 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. Detach the screw. To replace a shower valve, start by unscrewing the shower handle and trim plate, so you can remove them. YouTuber pro - If it is, however, your new cartridge should come with its own valve clip. 1. Pull it out using your hand or tug on it with needle-nose pliers. Oct 2, 2019 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. Remove the screw underneath the plate by turning it counterclockwise. There is a second control to divert the water between the tub spout and shower head. Dave Jones. If you notice reduced water pressure at the shower head, you might have a leak at the valve. 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. If you don't have an access panel, you're going to have to remove that drywall, though. c) Examine The Posi-Temp Valve 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. If your valve clip is not damaged, you should be able to reuse it while securing the new cartridge in place. Use a flat-head screwdriver to gently jiggle it off. How to fix Moen shower valve troubleshooting? Reply. Push the shower diverter knob down and pull it up again. Although most of these faucets look as if they are made of brass, the truth of the matter is that they are just iron/steel coated to look like brass hence they will rust/corrode. Plumber holding a bath faucet and installs it. Apply plumbers putty to the back of each escutcheon plate, then hand-tighten them onto the stems. Are you a homeowner who has heard of a shower diverter but arent sure what it is or how it works? {"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":"