how to fix a shower diverter gate

In plumbing, a shower diverter is a terminal term used to describe the valve which when turned changes the flow of water from the showerhead to the faucet of the bathtub. Most often, people install the shower diverters with shower or tub fixtures allowing you the preference of having a bath or a shower.

Typically, you can find these devices in guest or secondary bathrooms, and they are great for accommodating adults and children. But there may be a time when you may need to repair or replace the shower diverter, best shower system. When such cases arise, this article can come in handy in putting you through the steps you need to follow.

Steps on How to fix a Shower Diverter Gate

Broken shower diverter gate? Well, there's no need to worry, follow these easy to do steps to fix it.

Step 1: You want to start by putting a piece of towel or cloth over the drain hole to keep the parts in one place. It helps parcel them from falling down the drain.

Step 2: Next find and turn off the water supply to the bathroom.

Step 3: Gently, you will have to remove the diverter's knob. To remove the knob, you will have to unfasten the screw at the centre of the handle exposing the diverter and stem.

Step 4: Make use of a wrench to clump around the diverter, then turn it until it eventually removes from the water supply line.

Step 5: You can install a new converter at this stage which we will look at later. But we'd be focusing on repairing for now.

Step 6: To repair the converter, you will have to remove from the diverter the rubber washer, but you'd first need to remove the screw which holds it in place.

Step 7: Using a new washer, screw it in place, then apply the right lubricant to the threats.

Step 8: Flash a flashlight inside the hole to check if the circular seat where the rubber washer closes against is a smooth one or it is a pitted seat. If you notice it is a pitted seat, remove it with a wrench. Make use of a replacement seat to replace it.

Step 9: When you're through, reinstall the diverter stem, the handle, the hollow tube and escutcheon. Fasten the screw then test the shower by running it to check if it works. If water is dropping around the handle of the diverter, then you'd have to tighten the nut with a socket wrench.

How to replace or install a new Bathtub Spout Shower Diverter

As we said earlier, the shower diverter is that little knob at the end of a bathtub spout, and it can wear out over time. When your shower diverter wears out, what do you do? You do not need to call the plumber for this, as you can do it yourself.

When your shower diverter wears out, the pressure reduces for the shower because there isn't enough water diverting from the spout. The tub spout which will match your bathroom decor can be repaired or replaced. We have talked about how to fix the bathtub spout shower diverter earlier in this article. Now, let's take a look into the step by step guide on how to replace the shower diverter.

Step 1: Start by placing a towel at the bottom of the bathtub under the spout. The essence of using sheets is to catch screws and protect the enamel of the table and any dropping parts and tools.

Step 2: Next to the wall, there is a small setscrew which is just below the spout you need to locate. When you find setscrew, remove it with a hex key then pull off the spout from the supply pipe. If you have a bathtub spout that does not have a setscrew, then you would have to use a heavy-duty screwdriver to open the spout by twisting it to get it off the supply pipe.

Step 3: Before you start the new installation, use a rag to wipe the spout, the diverter and the threads of the supply pipe. Seal the threads with about three layers of the thread seal tape. Seal the supply pipe where it attaches to the wall by applying silicone caulk.

Step 4: The new spout should be fixed on the supply pipe and then secure the setscrew. Screw on the spout and then slide it over the tube then turn it in a clockwise direction with your hands.

Step 5: Lastly, make use of masking tape to wrap the teeth on the tongue-and-groove plier to protect the new spout. Then the spouts should be tightened on the pipe using the pliers. Try your best not to over-tightening the spot because over-tightening it can easily damage the wall and pipe.

Now that everything's all done and set make sure you test the fixture to make sure that it is well connected. Also, ensure you have the right tools for the necessary adjustments required when fixing and repairing the diverter. When you make use of wrong equipment, it might not tighten the fixtures rightly, or it may damage the installation. Another thing with noting is that you should make sure the screws are well tightened correctly to prevent water from leaking. And most importantly, make sure you take your time to read the manuals so that you can go through the process successfully.