One of the most common causes of a bathtub faucet that leaks only when the shower is running is a worn washer. To fix this issue, you will need to access the faucet assembly located beneath the faucet handle.
Turn off the water supply to the faucet and unscrew the handle. Remove the decorative cap and escutcheon, followed by the valve stem, and then the washer. Replace the worn washer with a new one and reassemble the faucet in the reverse order that you took it apart.
Turn on the water supply and test the faucet to ensure that all leaks have been eliminated. If, after replacing the washer, the faucet still leaks when the shower is running, you may need to replace the entire faucet assembly.
Why does my faucet keep running when I turn on my shower?
If your faucet keeps running when you turn on your shower, it could be a sign of a few different issues. One possibility is that the hot and cold water shut-off valves may be defective or stuck in the open position.
It’s also possible that internal components such as the diverter valve, the mixing valve, or the cartridge have gone bad, causing water pressure to build up and remain at a high level. It’s also possible that water pressure is too high and is causing your faucet to continually run.
Lastly, it’s possible that the washers in the faucet may Worn out or need to be replaced. To identify the exact source of the issue, it’s best to hire a professional plumber to identify and fix the problem.
How do I stop my shower diverter from leaking?
If your shower diverter is leaking, the most common solution is to replace the washer that is placed in the diverter valve. This is a relatively simple DIY repair – you will need to use either a flat-head or Philips-head screwdriver to remove the screw at the top of the diverter, and then remove the plunger and the handle to gain access to the valve.
Be sure to turn off the water supply before you begin this repair. Once you have the old washer removed, you can get a new one of the same size and shape and then apply some plumber’s tape to the threads before you screw the washer in.
Finally, reassemble the handle, plunger, and screw before turning the water supply back on to check for any leaks. If the shower diverter is still leaking after replacing the washer, then you may need to replace the entire diverter valve.
How do you replace a shower diverter valve?
Replacing a shower diverter valve is a relatively straightforward process. Depending on the size and design of your valve, the materials and supplies may slightly vary. Generally, you will need a few simple tools, a new valve stem and seat, plumber’s tape, and a wrench.
The first step is to turn off the hot and cold water supply lines, and then open up the shower knobs. This will release significant water pressure and should lead to a reduction in any leaking.
Now, you will need to unscrew the decorative knob or lever and the housing, fixing the problem areas. The retainer screws may have rusted, so use caution and start with a flat head screwdriver to remove them.
Next, you should remove the old valve stem and seat. If you need to remove these in one piece, you can use a rubber mallet or wrench, depending on the type of valve stem and seat.
Using the plumber’s tape, securely wrap the valve stem threads until it is fully coated and protected. Then, using a wrench, tightly assemble the new valve stem and seat into the opening. Securely fasten with the retaining screws.
To finish, turn the water supply back on, test the shower function and check for any leaks. If all goes well, you have successfully replaced your shower diverter valve.
What does a shower diverter valve look like?
A shower diverter valve is typically cylindrical in shape and usually located in the wall, near the showerhead. The cover of the valve is usually decorative, with three handles or knobs – one for hot, one for cold and one as a diverter.
When in the off position, all handles should be parallel to the wall. When in the on position, one of the handles will be perpendicular to the wall and the other will cut directly across it. This mechanism controls the flow of water, allowing you to change between using just the showerhead or the showerhead and one additional source, such as a handheld shower, bath spout, shower wand, body spray, etc.
The diverter valve is often chrome-plated brass, but may also be plastic, depending on the manufacturer.
Can I fix a diverter valve myself?
Yes, you can repair a diverter valve yourself. Before undertaking this task, you’ll want to make sure you gather the necessary tools and safety gear (such as safety glasses and gloves). Then you can begin by shutting off the water supply and examining the diverter valve.
If you notice any cracks or damage, you should replace the valve. If, instead, you notice that the valve is clogged or blocked, you may be able to clean it. Depending on the diverter valve, you may need to use a wrench to unscrew it and remove the blockage.
After the valve has been repaired or replaced, be sure to reattach it properly, turn the water supply back on and test the valve to ensure it is functioning properly. With the right tools and some careful work, you should be able to repair the valve yourself.
What is the difference between a shower diverter and a shower valve?
A shower diverter is a device that is used to direct the flow of water from the showerhead to a different outlet, such as a hand-held shower, a bathtub spout, or another showerhead. It is typically located at the junction of the shower arm and the showerhead, and consists of a diverter stem and a diverter knob.
A shower valve is a valve that controls the flow of hot and cold water to the showerhead. It consists of a handle and a stem that is connected to the water supply, located behind the wall. The handle is operated to adjust the flow of water and the temperature, which is then regulated by the stem.
The valve is usually located below the shower diverter, and is used to control the pressure and water temperature going to the showerhead.
How much does a plumber charge to fix a shower diverter?
The amount that a plumber will charge to fix a shower diverter depends on a few factors. Labor rates, the extent of the problem, the parts required, and the type of materials used are all likely to influence the final cost.
For instance, an hourly rate will be charged for the plumber’s time and the number of hours to be billed will depend on the complexity of the job. If the problem is minor and only requires minor repairs or new parts, the cost might be less than if there is a more significant problem that requires additional work, such as replacing the existing unit or pipe installation.
Additionally, the types of parts and materials used can also affect the total cost, as higher quality ones may be more expensive but will likely last longer as well. As a result, it is difficult to say exactly how much a plumber will charge to fix a shower diverter without considering the specific circumstances.
Can you replace a shower faucet without replacing the valve?
Yes, you can replace a shower faucet without replacing the valve. Since the valve does not actually become part of the faucet, replacing the faucet will not require you to replace the valve. To replace the faucet, you will need to first turn off the water supply to the shower.
Then you should remove the old fixture, taking note of any connections and pipes that will need to be reconnected. After that, you can install the new faucet. Generally speaking, you will only have to reconnect the two pipes, using the fixtures and fittings included with the faucet.
Once the faucet is properly connected, you can then turn the water supply back on and test the faucet. If the new faucet is working properly, then you are done.
How much does it cost to fix a leaky bathtub faucet?
The cost of repairing a leaky bathtub faucet will vary greatly depending on the type of fixture you have and the difficulty of the repair. Factors such as the need to replace the entire handle, valves or gaskets can increase the cost.
On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $75 to $150 to repair a leaky bathtub faucet. Depending on the nature of the repair, the cost can reach up to $300 or more. If you’re able to undertake the repair yourself, you should expect to pay around $20 to $50 for parts and supplies.
However, if the leaky faucet is on an old or an unusual fixture, you may be looking at a high out-of-pocket cost for the parts or an increased labor cost for the repair.
Why do diverter valves leak?
Diverter valves are a type of plumbing fixture located in the shower and often used to switch between two water sources, like a shower head and a handheld shower head. They typically have an internal number of components, including rubber O-rings designed to help keep water from leaking.
Unfortunately, the O-rings become worn over time due to normal wear and tear or improper use. These O-rings may become hardened, damaged, misshapen, or cracked, allowing water to leak. In addition, the valve may be installed incorrectly, or there may be a problem with the internal mechanisms causing leakage.
Also, the diverter valve can become covered with soap scum, dirt, and grime, preventing the O-rings from sealing properly and resulting in a leak. In some cases, the seals may be clogged due to excessive minerals in the water supply, causing a leak.
To fix a leak from a diverter valve, start by cleaning any debris from around it and replacing the O-rings inside. If this does not resolve the issue, the diverter valve may need to be replaced.
Do you need to turn off water to replace shower diverter?
Yes, it is usually necessary to turn off the water before replacing a shower diverter. This will help to prevent flooding and reduce the risk of damage to bathroom fixtures. It is usually best to turn off the water at the main shut-off valve, which can typically be found in a basement, crawl space, or utility closet.
Once the water has been shut off, it will be necessary to shut off the water supply valves to the shower. These are usually located near the diverter itself. You will also need to turn off the water supply to any connected shower heads or handheld showerheads.
Once the water has been turned off, it will be possible to remove and replace the old shower diverter. After replacing the diverter, the shut-off valves and main water shut-off valve will need to be reopened in order to restore water to the shower.
Can a broken shower diverter cause a leak?
Yes, a broken shower diverter can cause a leak. The diverter, sometimes referred to as a diverter valve, is an important part of the shower system that allows water to flow from the faucet up to the showerhead.
When it is working correctly, it regulates the direction of the water, ensuring that it only goes to the showerhead and not to the faucet.
When a diverter valve is damaged or malfunctioning, there is a possibility that water can escape. This can happen when the diverter is stuck in the wrong position, allowing water to flow out of the spout instead of up to the showerhead.
The water can then form a puddle or small stream on the floor, leading to a leak. Additionally, cracks or damage to the diverter can create tiny holes that allow water to escape and leak.
To prevent a shower diverter from causing a leak, it is important to regularly inspect the system and make sure that it is in proper working order. If any wear and tear or damage is noticed, it is best to have a professional plumber inspect the diverter and repair or replace it to ensure that the shower system functions properly.
How long do shower diverters last?
The longevity of shower diverters can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, such as the quality of the diverter, how often it is used, and how well it is maintained. Generally speaking, you can expect a high-quality shower diverter to last between 10 and 15 years, although some may last longer.
However, it’s important to note that diverters are subject to wear and tear that can shorten their lifespan. Prolong the life of your diverter by regularly cleaning it, visually inspecting it for signs of wear and tear, and replacing worn or broken pieces in a timely manner.
Additionally, opting for a higher quality diverter with corrosion-resistant features, such as brass or stainless steel, can help ensure better performance for years to come.
Why is water coming out the back of my tub faucet?
If water is coming out of the back of your tub faucet, it is likely due to a problem with your tub’s diverter valve. The diverter valve is responsible for diverting water from the tub spout to the shower head when you turn the knob or lever to shower mode.
If the valve becomes damaged or stuck, it can cause the water to come out of both the spout and the shower head, or out of the back of the faucet. It could also be due to a leak in your showerhead or a clogged tub spout, so it is important to investigate the cause.
To repair the diverter valve, you may need to replace it with a new one. When replacing it, be sure to take apart any valves that may be on the back of the faucet to ensure that the new part will fit correctly.