A shower diverter is composed of the below components:
1. Connecting tube – This part connects the shower arm to the mixing valve. It is usually made of galvanized steel, brass, or copper and has different lengths to meet building requirements for various sizes of showers.
2. Valve Body – The diverter valve body is usually made of chrome-plated brass, nickel, or bronze for durability and is designed to give the diverter valve a more aesthetic appeal.
3. Handle – The diverter valve handle is used to control the water flow between the showerhead and the bathtub faucet. Most diverter valves have a two- or three-position handle to make it easier to switch the water stream.
4. Helical spring – The helical spring is the part that keeps the diverter in place and prevents the water from escaping through the valve. It is usually made of metal or plastic and supports the handle, connecting tube, and valve body.
5. Seals and gaskets – The seals and gaskets are the parts that prevent leaks in the shower diverter. They also provide a tight grip on the connecting tube and valve body, ensuring that the diverter works properly.
How do you rebuild a shower diverter valve?
Rebuilding a shower diverter valve requires attention to detail and patience. The following steps can help guide you through the process and help ensure that the valve is properly working:
1. Turn off the water and shut off the power.
Before beginning any work on the shower valve it is best to turn off the water to the shower and shut off the power to any electric components.
2. Disassemble the valve.
Carefully remove the handle, bonnet, and collar, removing any screws that may be holding the parts in place. Separate all of the pieces to easily identify them and their placement.
3. Inspect each part of the valve.
Inspect all of the parts to ensure they are in stable condition and look for any deterioration or odd pieces.
4. Clean the valves.
Clean all of the valves with a clean cloth, or a vinegar-and-baking soda solution. This helps to remove any soap scum or grim that has built up over time.
5. Reassemble the valve.
Now that all of the parts are clean, reassemble the valve. Pay particular attention to correctly placing the O-rings back into the valve. Tighten all of the parts securely to ensure they are in place.
6. Test the valve
Turn the water back on and test the valve. Test the hot and cold water settings and make sure that the water flow is correct and the diverter works correctly. If an issue is found, carefully review the installation and make necessary changes.
Rebuilding a shower diverter valve can be time consuming and difficult, but taking the time to do it correctly will pay off in the long run.
What is the difference between a shower diverter and a shower valve?
A shower diverter and a shower valve are both fixtures in a shower, but they do different things. A shower diverter is used to divert the water away from the showerhead and direct it somewhere else, such as a handheld showerhead, sprayer, or bathtub faucet.
A shower diverter can be turned manually with a rod or a lever. A shower valve, on the other hand, is used to control the temperature and flow of water for the shower. It can be a single handle valve that both controls the temperature and turns the water off, or a two-handle valve that separate controls the temperature from the on/off.
Most shower valves are operated with a handle, but some are operated with a digital dial. So, a shower diverter is responsible for redirecting the water, and a shower valve is responsible for controlling the temperature and flow of water.
Can I fix a diverter valve myself?
Yes, it is possible to fix a diverter valve yourself. However, it is important to be aware of the safety risks involved and to ensure that you have the necessary tools and expertise before attempting any repairs.
Before working on a diverter valve, it is important to disconnect the water supply and turn off the power supply to the valve. Additionally, you should take a moment to read the manufacturer’s instructions for the valve to ensure any special techniques or tools are required.
Once this is done, you can start by removing the valve from its base and inspecting it for signs of damage such as leaking, rust or corrosion. If signs of damage are noticeable it may be wise to either contact a professional for help or to purchase a new valve.
If, however, the valve appears to be in good condition the next step is to clean it. Start by removing any debris or contaminants from the external surfaces and then proceed to dismantle the valve and check for any built-up sediment or organic matter.
Once all debris has been removed it may be beneficial to lubricate the valve body and the internal components to help reduce the amount of wear and tear. Finally, you can reassemble the valve and ensure that all seals and components are secure before reconnecting the water supply and power.
If, despite your best efforts, the valve is still not functioning correctly, it may be necessary to replace the valve or contact a professional for assistance.
Can I replace a shower diverter myself?
Yes, replacing a shower diverter yourself is possible, but it is important to follow a few safety considerations and be familiar with the process ahead of time. It is always recommended to turn off the water supply to the shower before beginning any plumbing projects to avoid any water damage.
Depending on the type of diverter you have, you may need to remove the entire valve or just the diverter. If you are replacing a two- or three-handle valve, then you will need to disconnect the piping before servicing the valve.
You may also need to remove the shower handle or trim to access the diverter. Once the old diverter is removed, you can move on to installing the new one. Make sure to securely attach the stem and gasket to the valve body before reattaching the trim.
Once the new diverter is ready to go, turn the water back on and test to make sure the diverter is working correctly. If all goes well, you have successfully completed your project and have a new shower diverter in working order!.
How do I know if my diverter valve is faulty?
To determine if your diverter valve is faulty, you need to first inspect the valve itself. Look for any obvious damages or signs of wear and tear. Next, activate the diverter valve manually and listen for any sharp noises, as this can indicate a leak or faulty valve.
If the valve does not respond as it should and does not close properly then this may indicate a faulty valve. Additionally, if water is leaking from the valve then this may also be a sign of a faulty valve.
Another test you can perform is to shut off the water supply to the diverter valve and then activate the valve. If it still continues to run or water still flows from it, then this is a sign that the valve is not functioning properly.
If you find that the diverter valve is faulty, then you should replace it as soon as possible.
Can a diverter valve be repaired?
Yes, a diverter valve can be repaired. Depending on the type of valve and the severity of the issue, repair may involve replacing one or more defective components, cleaning out any dirt and debris, adjusting the valve itself, or any combination of these measures.
Typically, the job requires at least a basic understanding of the valve system, so if you are not experienced in this regard it is best to contact a professional. Also, some parts may need to be sourced from the manufacturer, so it is important to collect accurate information about the valve before attempting a repair.
Can you repair diverter?
Yes, it is possible to repair a diverter. First, you will need to identify the part of the diverter that needs to be repaired. Depending on the part, you may need a replacement part or some simple tools to accomplish the repair.
Once you have identified the part, you can use a screwdriver or other tools to remove the part from the body of the diverter. You should check the manufacturer’s instructions or online tutorials for specific steps on how to do this.
After the part is removed, you can clean and inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. If the part is broken or worn, you may need to purchase a replacement part from the manufacturer or a hardware store.
In some cases, you may be able to repair the part with adhesive or filler.
Once the part is ready to be installed, you can use the same tools you used to remove it to install the part back to the diverter body. Be sure to tighten all connections as much as possible. To finish, you should inspect the diverter as a whole to make sure everything is installed correctly and working properly.
How much does it cost to replace a shower diverter?
The cost of replacing a shower diverter can vary depending on the type you choose and the complexity of the installation. For basic installations, the cost of the diverter and the labor to install it can range from around $50 to $200, however, a more complex installation can cost $300 or more.
The cost of the diverter will depend on its style, size, and features. You should also factor in any additional parts or materials that may be necessary, such as tiling or plumbing supplies. To ensure an accurate price estimate, it is recommended to have a professional plumber inspect your current diverter and provide a quote for the total cost of the job.
What happens when diverter valve fails?
When a diverter valve fails, it can lead to several issues with the system that it is a part of. Depending on the system and what the diverter valve’s purpose is, some of the common problems include failing to change storage tanks or inlets and outlets, not allowing the right amounts of water to flow, or allowing unhealthy water to pass through to plumbing fixtures.
In some cases, the diverter valve may fail to shut off completely, causing water to continually flow and potentially causing flooding and major water damage to the property. It can also lead to increased pressure buildup in the system, which can be dangerous and cause costly pipe and plumbing problems.
Can a broken shower diverter cause a leak?
Yes, a broken shower diverter can cause a leak. The diverter is responsible for controlling the flow of water from the showerhead when you switch it to the shower or bathtub option. If the diverter is broken, water may continue to flow from the showerhead rather than being diverted to the drain or tub.
This can lead to dripping or pooling, resulting in water damage or possible flooding in the area surrounding the shower. Additionally, a broken diverter valve can cause the shower to become clogged and further complicate the problem.
If you notice water leaking from your showerhead, you should have a professional assess the diverter to determine if it needs to be repaired or replaced in order to stop the leak.
Are shower diverter cartridges universal?
No, shower diverter cartridges are not universal. The cartridges themselves come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles and there isn’t a one-size-fits-all option available. Additionally, the type of cartridge that you need varies depending on the manufacturer, model, and year of your shower’s system.
Therefore, it’s essential to ensure that you purchase the proper cartridge replacement for your particular shower diverter.
You should look to access your diverter in order to remove the cartridge and properly identify it. Usually this is done by removing your shower’s handle, since the cartridge is built into the diverter system.
You’ll then need to take note of the brand, model number, and any other information available in order to properly search for and purchase a compatible replacement cartridge. If you’re unable to find the exact information you need, an experienced plumber may be able to assist you in finding the correct cartridge for your diverter.