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Fixing a Plumb shower diverter not working

Having a hot, steamy shower is a great way to start the day or relax after a long day at work.

However, if your shower diverter not working properly, it can be frustrating and cause unnecessary stress.

In this guide, we will go over the step-by-step process of fixing a plumb shower diverter not working.

How does a shower diverter work?

A shower diverter is a component of your shower system that allows you to control the flow of water from either the tub faucet or the shower head.

When you turn on the shower, the water flows through the diverter and out of the shower head.

When you pull on the diverter knob, the water flow is redirected from the showerhead to the tub spout.

Common types of shower diverters

There are many different types of shower diverters available, including:

  • gate-type valves
  • rotating valves
  •  pin knob diverters.

The most common diverter types are the three-valve diverter, which is used in tub/shower combos, and the showerhead diverter spout, which is a single knob that controls the water flow.

Signs that your shower diverter not working ​

If your shower diverter not working correctly, there are several signs to be aware of.

One of the most common signs of a broken shower diverter is a lack of water flow from the showerhead.

You may also notice a reduction in water pressure or leaks from the bathtub spout.

When should you replace a shower diverter?

If you have tried to repair your shower diverter and it is still not functioning correctly, it may be time to replace it.

In general, shower diverters should be replaced every 5-10 years, depending on use and the quality of the diverter.

The lifespan of a shower diverter varies depending on use and the quality of the diverter.

A well-maintained shower diverter can last up to 10 years, while a poorly maintained or heavily used diverter may need to be replaced sooner.

Check your diverter and prevent the need for shower replacement

Fix a shower diverter not working in 3 steps

If your shower diverter is not working properly, it can be frustrating and disrupt your shower experience.

However, repairing or replacing a malfunctioning shower diverter is often easy to fix.

When the shower diverter breaks, you may need to replace it to restore the proper flow of water between the showerhead and bathtub spout.

To repair your shower diverter, you’ll need to remove the diverter knob and stem, and if necessary, the entire valve.

Testing the diverter after repair ensures it is working properly, preventing water waste and creating a smooth shower experience.

first step: Turn off the water supply

The first step in fixing a shower diverter that is not working is to turn off the water supply to your shower.

This will prevent any accidental water leaks and make it easier to work on the diverter.

second step: Remove the shower diverter valve

Next, you will need to remove the shower diverter valve.

This usually involves unscrewing the knob and removing the nut at the stem of the diverter.

Depending on the type of diverter you have, you may need to remove the entire valve.

third step: Replace the old shower diverter with a new one

Once you have removed the old diverter, you can install the new shower diverter.

Make sure that you choose a diverter that is compatible with your shower system and follow the instructions carefully.

10 common causes of a leaking shower diverter

A leaking shower diverter can be caused by various factors that result in the shower diverter not working properly.

Here are ten common causes:

  1. Diverter Breaks: Over time, the shower diverter may wear out or become damaged, necessitating the need to replace or repair it.
  2. Faulty Diverter Knob: The diverter knob, which controls the flow of water from the tub faucet to the showerhead, can malfunction and cause leaks.
  3. Stem Issues: Problems with the stem of the diverter can lead to water leaks from the bathtub spout even when the shower diverter has been engaged.
  4. Valve Replacement: In some cases, the entire valve that houses the shower diverter may need to be removed and replaced to fix the issue.
  5. Water Supply Interruptions: Disruptions in the water supply can affect the proper functioning of the shower diverter, resulting in leaks.
  6. Inadequate Shower Diverter Gate: A faulty shower diverter gate can cause water to continue flowing from the bathtub spout even when the diverter is engaged.
  7. Worn-Out Diverter Components: The wear and tear of the shower diverter components can lead to leaks, requiring replacement or repair.
  8. Improper Installation: If the shower diverter was not installed correctly initially, it may cause issues with water flow and leakage.
  9. Incompatible Shower Diverter Types: Different shower diverter types may require specific repair techniques or replacement parts.
  10. Sustained Water Pressure: High water pressure can put excessive stress on the diverter, causing it to malfunction and leak.

Addressing these common causes can help fix the leaking shower diverter and ensure a smooth experience that goes well and no water leaks.

It’s essential to test your diverter regularly to identify any issues early on and prevent the need for extensive repairs or replacements .

If you are in need for shower diverter repair , our team can help

How do you repair a shower diverter not working and is leaking?

  • The first step in repairing a leaking shower diverter is to turn off the water supply to your shower.
  • Next, remove the shower diverter valve and inspect it for any damage.

If the valve is damaged, you will need to replace it.

If the valve appears to be in good condition, you may be able to repair it by replacing the seals or cleaning the threads.

Can you apply sealant to fix a leaking shower diverter?

While you may be tempted to apply sealant to fix a leaking shower diverter, this is not recommended.

Sealant can cause more problems in the long run and may not effectively fix the leak.

 It is best to replace the diverter or repair it using the appropriate methods.

How to Replace a Three-Valve Diverter in a Tub/Shower Combo

If your three-valve diverter in a tub/shower combo is not working properly, you may need to replace it.

Repairing or replacing a faulty shower diverter is typically an easy fix that can restore the proper flow of water.

When the shower diverter breaks or fails to work, you’ll need to remove the diverter knob and stem, and potentially the entire valve.

By replacing the diverter, you can get your shower back to working order and enjoy a seamless shower experience.

Taking the time to test the diverter ensures it functions correctly, preventing water waste and unnecessary repairs.

How do you replace a three-valve diverter in a tub/shower combo?

A three-valve diverter is a type of shower diverter that is used in tub/shower combos.

The diverter has three valves that control the flow of water to the tub spout, showerhead, and hot and cold water.

To replace a three-valve diverter in a tub/shower combo, you will need to turn off the water supply and remove the old diverter.

Next, install the new diverter, making sure that it is compatible with your shower system.

Finally, test the new diverter to ensure that the water flow is working correctly.

What tools and materials do you need?

To replace a three-valve diverter, you will need a:

  • screwdriver
  • pliers
  • an adjustable wrench
  • a new diverter

That is compatible with your shower system.

In conclusion, it is easy to fix or replace a shower diverter if you follow these simple steps.

If your shower diverter breaks or is not working correctly, don’t panic!

With a little bit of time and effort, you can get your shower back up and running in no time.

If your shower still not working, contact our experts

Check our shower repair services

Contact us today

  • Call us at (832) 434-5936: Call us at our hotline and our customer service team will be ready to take your call and address your plumbing issues.
  • Visit our website and fill out the contact form: Visit our website Al Rooter Plumbing Company and fill out the contact form with your information and plumbing issue, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
  • Email us at alrooterplumbingllc@gmail.com: You can also send us an email with your plumbing issue and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
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