The most likely cause for water coming out of both the shower head and the faucet at the same time is a malfunctioning diverter valve. A diverter valve is the part of a shower system that directs the water from the hot and cold faucet valves to either the tub, shower head, or both.
If the diverter valve is faulty, then it can cause water to come out of both the shower head and the faucet at the same time. The diverter valve is located behind the shower wall and needs to be removed and replaced with a new one in order to fix the problem.
Depending on the type of shower system, you may need to consult a professional plumber in order to get the job done correctly.
How do I fix the water diverter in my shower?
Fixing a water diverter in your shower can seem challenging, but it is actually quite straightforward with a few simple steps:
1. First, turn off the roof water supply or the cold water or hot water supply to the shower.
2. Then, remove the faceplate on the diverter by unscrewing it. It is usually held in place by two screws on either side.
3. Once the faceplate has been removed, unscrew the screw that is holding the diverter in place.
4. Carefully remove the diverter from the wall. It will be connected to the shower line by a pipe or tubing.
5. Inspect the diverter for any damage, blockages, or corrosion. If the diverter is damaged, you will need to replace it with a new one.
6. Clean the surrounding area with a damp cloth, ensuring that all particles and debris are removed.
7. Insert the new or repaired diverter into the shower line and secure the screw that holds it in place.
8. Reattach the faceplate to the diverter, using the two screws to complete the installation.
9. Finally, turn the roof water supply or the cold water or hot water supply to the shower back on and test the diverter for proper operation.
How to fix a bathtub faucet that sprays out when the shower is on?
If you are having an issue with your bathtub faucet that’s causing it to spray out when the shower is on, you will need to do some troubleshooting to figure out the cause of the problem and then fix it.
One of the possible causes is low pressure. If this is your issue, you can fix it by checking your shower head and tub faucet for any clogs. You can also make sure the inlet screens on the faucet are clean.
If the problem is not due to low pressure, it could be due to the diverter. This is the part of the faucet that redirects the water from the spout to the shower head. The diverter can get stuck or be damaged, causing it to not operate properly.
To fix this issue, you will need to remove the faucet handle and tub spout, and then inspect and replace the diverter as necessary.
If the above steps do not work, or if the cause of the issue is not yet determined, you may need to replace the entire faucet. This should be done by a plumber as it will require you to shut off the water, remove the old faucet, and install the new faucet.
By doing some investigation and troubleshooting, you should be able to fix your bathtub faucet that is spraying out when the shower is on.
Why does faucet leak when shower is on?
A faucet leaking when the shower is on can happen for a variety of reasons. One of the most common reasons is due to a worn out or faulty washer or o-ring between the diverter stem and the faucet body.
This could be caused by worn out material or damaged parts caused by age. Problems with the faucet handle can also lead to a leak when the shower is on, as the internal parts may not properly seat or close valves that should be shut to prevent leakage.
If the shower and faucet share plumbing, then it is possible that the pressure and water flow of the shower can cause back pressure into the faucet. In this case, it might be necessary to install a back flow prevention device, such as a pressure balancing valve, to keep the faucet from leaking.
Finally, if the faucet is installed incorrectly it’s possible that the hose bibs (where the hose connects to the faucet) may not be properly sealed, which can cause a leak when the shower is running.
What causes a shower diverter to stop working?
The most common issue is likely a clogged diverter, which causes a reduced water flow. Other causes can include a broken diverter valve, damaged seals or gaskets, a damaged or clogged spout screen, calcium or mineral deposits, or a worn out diverter.
Some of these problems can be resolved with a quick cleaning, but serious issues may require a replacement. To identify what is causing your shower diverter to not work, it is best to start by dismantling the component to see if something is obviously blocking or worn out.
However, if you are unable to identify and repair the problem, it is best to consult with a plumbing expert.
Is it easy to fix a shower diverter?
Fixing a shower diverter may seem like a daunting task, but it is actually relatively easy to do. To fix a shower diverter, the first step is to turn off the water at the main water supply shutoff valve.
Then, unscrew the old diverter using a wrench or pliers and check for any blockages or rust. If needed, brush out any debris from the pipes and replace any corroded parts. Make sure to use Teflon tape or plumber’s putty when reattaching the new diverter and tightening it with your wrench.
Then, turn the water back on and make sure there are no leaks and that it is in good working order. With some basic tools and patience, it is easy to fix a shower diverter.
How much does a plumber charge to fix a shower diverter?
The cost to fix a shower diverter can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of fixture, the nature of the repair, the parts needed and the labor involved. Most plumbers will charge an initial service fee, followed by an hourly rate or a flat fee depending on the amount of work involved.
If the issue is minor and only requires some minor adjustments, the cost may be around $100. If the issue requires parts and more labor intensive repairs, the cost may be closer to $250. In either case, it is always best to get an estimate of the cost from the plumber before initiating repairs.