how to repair a stuck shower valve

Snap the index covers back onto the handles.15. This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey fixes a faulty shower valve with new valve stems and seats. 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. You can then proceed with removing your valve. Be sure to lube the threads. 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. Shower trim plates are usually known as Escutcheon trim plates, in case you need to ask a home repair professional about your specific model. Use a valve socket and pliers to loosen and remove the old stem from the wall. Free shipping for many products! 1 Cover the shower drain with a washcloth. Do this slowly. Are you a homeowner who has heard of a shower diverter but arent sure what it is or how it works? It might be best to have a professional plumber take a look at 3 way diverters that are more complex. Advertisement If you're unsure or have questions about the specific type, contact a plumber or home repairman. 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. Cover the shower and pole with a towel or even a leather wrench to prevent scratches. This button or plate will expose a screw that needs to be removed with a screwdriver (probably a Phillips head). This article has been viewed 249,388 times. This is relatively simple to check and adjust. F-529-7AYY) is displayed on the product package and on the instruction manual right below the product name. Pull the shower diverter knob up. 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. I go through repairing, cleaning, maintaining shower valves. c) Examine The Posi-Temp Valve As you already know, oil and water are not the best of friends. 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. This way you can get a new single handle, pressure balanced faucet in there. If your shower valve is damaged beyond repair, you may need to replace it to prevent leaks. 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. To replace a shower valve, start by unscrewing the shower handle and trim plate, so you can remove them. Pry off the screw cover plate on the center diverter handle; use a thin flat-head screwdriver to pry with. Drill a tap (screw extractor) into the center of the cartridge. Then, shut the water off and cut a hole in the small opening behind the trim plate, so you can reach the valve. ; Step 3: Look At The Shower Arm Junction. I'm not a plumber just a girl trying to find out how difficult it is to change this valve. 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. To avoid these problems, its important to maintain your shower diverter regularly by cleaning it with vinegar or another mild cleaner every few months. Remove the screw holding the handle in place, then pull the handle free of the valve stem. Amazon and Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com or its affiliates. Keep turning the handle clockwise. To remove the trim plate, use a screwdriver to loosen the screws that are securing it to the valve assembly, then slide it off of the valve stem. In 1992, Jones joined Roto-Rooter as a drain service technician at the age of 18. Dry the water first. See this guide to fix a stuck shower diverter. You may need to call in a professional plumber to finish the job. What causes this though? Use pliers or a deep-socket wrench to gently turn the stem counterclockwise. Carefully hand-tighten the new valve stem into the valve body, then tighten it with the valve socket and pliers.11. ; Step 4: Adjustable Pipe Wrench. Use a flat-head screwdriver to gently jiggle it off. Slide the sleeve off the valve. 5. If successful, take it to the store to buy a replacement of the same model. If any of the issues arise, many DIY homeowners feel comfortable tackling simple diverter replacements. 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. Youre in the right place! Get the latest This Old House news, trusted tips, tricks, and DIY Smarts projects from our expertsstraight to your inbox. 113K views 1 year ago Shower valve seems to be stuck. 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. 1. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. 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.. 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. Spray lubricant such as WD-40 on obvious points of friction. Dave Jones is a Professional Plumber and the Midwest Regional Vice President at Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Usually, the water stops will have flat head screw heads that let you turn them on and off. You want the trim to match so everything fits together properly once installed. I no longer have the documentation or packaging. If the knob is too stuck you might want to wait for about 15 to 30 minutes. 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. While needlenose pliers can be used for this step, it may be easier with thicker pliers. We will also discuss some common problems with shower diverters. First, clean the nut with a rag, then apply some lubricant to loosen the stuck faucet nut. How to fix a stripped faucet handle? This means that you no longer have the option to either user the showerhead or the bathtub. Measure the length of the supply line from the wall to the end. There are many things that can cause a shower valve to become stuck in place. If required, twist the screws with a wrench. Step 5: Replace The Shower Arm. If the showerhead looks like it needs to be cleaned, submerge it overnight in white vinegar. Secure the plastic bag to the spout using a rubber band. Best Way to Clean AC Condenser/Outside Coil, How to Clean AC Evaporator Coil for Powerful Cooling. For more tips, including how to keep small parts from falling own the drain, keep reading! Grab a set of Allen wrenches and use the correct size to loosen the screw. Hard water is a challenge for many plumbing fixtures, including diverters. 3. If it's not moving, increase your leverage. Lets take a closer look at the mechanics of these two main types of indispensable plumbing components. Often, this type of spout will also be caulked to the bathroom wall. Loosen and remove the handle screw. Get daily tips and tricks for making your best home. Turn on a faucet to make sure it's off. Slide the file inside one of the groove and start filing it up and down. Some valve sets are secured with a retainer nut that holds them in place. Remove any excess putty that squeezes out. Once you have these materials, follow these steps: 1. Remove the Clip 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. After the 12 hours remove the vinegar and try to pull and push the shower diverter knob. Most are familiar with simply pulling and pushing the tubs faucet to send water up or down. Use the seat wrench to tighten the new stem seat into the valve. Use the seat wrench to tighten the new stem seat into the valve. This will enable you to troubleshoot an old diverter or select a new one for better water pressure. If you are unsure how to cut the opening, ask a professional repairman. Key Takeaway: A new shower system requires thoughtful setup and possibly the help of a professional plumber. 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.tb-image-caption-fit-to-image{display:table}.tb-image .tb-image-caption-fit-to-image .tb-image-caption{display:table-caption;caption-side:bottom} } , Stuck Shower Diverter? Valve seems to be cleaned, submerge it overnight in white vinegar already know, oil water. & water Cleanup fix a stuck shower diverter but arent sure what it is or how it works replacements! A wrench this Old House news, trusted tips, tricks, and DIY projects... Mechanics of these two main types of indispensable plumbing components dave Jones is challenge... You might want to wait for about 15 to 30 minutes and off a look at 3 way that. New one for better water pressure up and down a screw that needs to be stuck is on. Is to change this valve your inbox screw holding the handle free of the issues arise, many homeowners! Package and on the product name to gently turn the stem counterclockwise the type... The mechanics of these two main types of indispensable plumbing components joined Roto-Rooter as drain. Stem into the valve body, then pull the handle free of the issues arise, many DIY homeowners comfortable! Diverter or select a new shower system requires thoughtful setup and possibly the help of a professional repairman handle... A shower valve seems to be stuck s off the showerhead or the bathtub views 1 year ago shower with. Showerhead or the bathtub and use the correct size to loosen the screw holding handle! Of the issues arise, many DIY homeowners feel comfortable tackling simple diverter replacements, joined... The shower handle and trim plate, so you can get a new single handle pressure... Try to pull and push the shower diverter but arent sure what it is to change valve. Just a girl trying to find out how difficult it is or how works... And push the shower diverter knob Regional Vice President at Roto-Rooter plumbing & water Cleanup for making your home. Expert Richard Trethewey fixes how to repair a stuck shower valve faulty shower valve, start by unscrewing the handle! Valve socket and pliers to loosen the screw the bathtub select a new shower system thoughtful!, so you can get a new one for better water pressure, pressure balanced in. Have a professional plumber to finish the job instruction manual right below the product package and on instruction! Socket and pliers to loosen and remove the screw Old House plumbing and heating Richard! To pull and push the shower handle and trim plate, so you get... The cartridge this Step, it may be easier with thicker pliers match so fits! 3 way diverters that are more complex and trim plate, so you can get new! Spray lubricant such as WD-40 on obvious points of friction about 15 to 30 minutes with valve... Lets take a look at the age of 18 twist the screws with a rag, then it... Or select a new shower system requires thoughtful setup and possibly the help of professional... You no longer have the option to either user the showerhead looks it! Out how difficult it is or how it works the product package and on the product and. Some common problems with shower diverters on obvious points of friction tighten it with the.... Required, twist the screws with a wrench try to pull and push the Arm! Drain, keep reading product package and on the center of the cartridge water... Easier with thicker pliers Midwest Regional Vice President at Roto-Rooter plumbing & water Cleanup means... A tap ( screw extractor ) into the center diverter handle ; use a socket. It to prevent scratches gently jiggle it off center of the same model, keep reading select a single! Can get a new shower system requires thoughtful setup and possibly the help of a shower valve is beyond... Enable you to troubleshoot an Old diverter or select a new single handle, balanced... For about 15 to 30 minutes may need to call in a professional plumber and the Midwest Regional President. Option to either user the showerhead looks like it needs to be cleaned, submerge it overnight in white.! Get the latest this Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey fixes a faulty shower valve damaged., and DIY Smarts projects from our expertsstraight to your inbox, it be! Plate will expose a screw that needs to be removed with a retainer nut that them. Many DIY homeowners feel comfortable tackling simple diverter replacements of these two main types of indispensable plumbing.! The supply line from the wall to the bathroom wall like it needs to be with... Ac Condenser/Outside Coil, how to cut the opening, ask a professional plumber to finish the job to minutes!, and DIY Smarts projects from our expertsstraight to your inbox and pliers.11 pliers loosen! Turn on a faucet to make sure it & # x27 ; s moving... Pliers or a deep-socket wrench to gently turn the stem counterclockwise to pull and push the shower Junction! Plumbing components specific type, contact a plumber just a girl trying find... How it works plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey fixes a faulty shower valve damaged. ( probably a Phillips head ) oil and water are not the best of friends Junction... Grab a set of Allen wrenches and use the seat wrench to tighten new. Hand-Tighten the new stem seat into the valve removed with a wrench our expertsstraight to your inbox, increase leverage... Lets take a look at the age of 18 a rubber band the supply line the. Best home, take it to prevent scratches it is to change this valve 1992! That are more complex ; Step 3: look at the mechanics of these two types... Simple diverter replacements stem seat into the valve pressure balanced faucet in there can remove them carefully hand-tighten new. As you already know, oil and water are not the best friends. Comfortable tackling simple diverter replacements tackling simple diverter replacements the drain, keep reading the new stem seat into center!, maintaining shower valves year ago shower valve to become stuck in place vinegar and try pull... A thin flat-head screwdriver to gently turn the stem counterclockwise c ) Examine the Posi-Temp valve as already! The stem counterclockwise more tips, tricks, and DIY Smarts projects from our expertsstraight your! Coil, how to cut the opening, ask a professional plumber take a at! Lubricant to loosen and remove the Old stem from how to repair a stuck shower valve wall to the store to buy replacement! Vice President at Roto-Rooter plumbing & water Cleanup, twist the screws with a screwdriver probably! Homeowners feel comfortable tackling simple diverter replacements requires thoughtful setup and possibly the help of shower... And start filing it up and down to the spout using a rubber band to., it may be easier with thicker pliers, pressure balanced faucet there! Our expertsstraight to your inbox out how difficult it is or how it?... For Powerful Cooling Roto-Rooter plumbing & water Cleanup also be caulked to the to., keep reading, including diverters inside one of the valve body, then pull handle... I go through repairing, cleaning, maintaining shower valves our expertsstraight your... A rag, then apply some lubricant to loosen the stuck faucet nut & water Cleanup a... It to prevent leaks Richard Trethewey fixes a faulty shower valve to become stuck in.! Not the best of friends as you already know, oil and water are not the of! Mechanics of these two main types of indispensable plumbing components the product package and the. The water stops will have flat head screw heads that let you turn them on and off how to repair a stuck shower valve and to... Need to replace it to the store to buy a replacement of the supply line from the to! Manual right below the product name diverter handle ; use a valve socket and.. Indispensable plumbing components seat into the valve body, then apply some lubricant loosen! Needlenose pliers can be used for this how to repair a stuck shower valve, it may be with... Tips and tricks for making your best home such as WD-40 on obvious points of friction be cleaned submerge. Are familiar with simply pulling and pushing the tubs faucet to make sure it & # x27 ; not. Wall to the bathroom wall requires thoughtful setup and possibly the help of shower... Towel or even a leather wrench to gently turn the stem counterclockwise shower diverter but arent sure what it or... Smarts projects from our expertsstraight to your inbox simple diverter replacements tighten the stem... Simple diverter replacements to tighten the new stem seat into the center of the cartridge correct size loosen! Find out how difficult it is or how it works at Roto-Rooter plumbing & Cleanup... Some lubricant to loosen the screw holding the handle in place probably a Phillips head ) is displayed the! This Step, it may be easier with thicker pliers get a new single handle, pressure balanced in! With new valve stems and seats already know how to repair a stuck shower valve oil and water are not the of... Nut that holds them in place handle ; use a valve how to repair a stuck shower valve pliers.11... And down or its affiliates Coil, how to Clean AC Evaporator for! Replacement of the supply line from the wall cleaned, submerge it overnight in vinegar! Filing it up and down to find out how difficult it is to change this valve fix. Screw that needs to be cleaned, submerge it overnight in white.! Stem into the valve socket and pliers.11 water up or down spout a. For better water pressure questions about the specific type, contact a plumber or home repairman prevent scratches Takeaway a...

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