How to Install Diverter Valve
A damaged diverter valve can cause the diverter handle to stop turning, the faucet to leak, and problems with the water temperature. Water may leak from the tub spout when the diverter is engaged, reducing the flow of water to the shower head. In some cases, the hot water may disappear. The diverter valve is located under the diverter handle. To install a replacement diverter valve, the faucet has to be disassembled and the defective parts removed. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Towels
- Flathead screwdriver
- Phillips screwdriver
- Allen wrench
- Adjustable wrench
- Replacement valve assembly and water cartridge
Instructions
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1
Turn off the main water valve to the house, usually located outside near the water meter. Turn on the shower faucet to release pressure in the water lines. Shield the tub or shower from damage and keep parts from rolling into the drain by covering the area with towels.
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2
Take off the diverter handle. Remove the decorative button from the acrylic handle using a screwdriver to pry off the button or unscrew a threaded button using pliers to loosen it, and then take the button off. Remove the handle on newer faucets by locating the screw under the handle and using an Allen wrench to remove the screw. Lift the handle off the faucet. Remove the handle adaptor, washer or sleeve (on certain models) by pulling them off.
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3
Unscrew the screws from the front of the escutcheon (wall plate) and lift it from the wall. Unscrew the threaded sleeve by hand (for escutcheons with no visible screws) that holds the escutcheon to the wall. Remove the threaded sleeve, washers and escutcheon.
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4
Remove the retaining clip, ring or the screws on the metal valve flange. Turn the retaining ring counterclockwise by hand or use an adjustable wrench (when necessary) to remove it. Remove the retaining clip (Moen faucets) by gripping the metal lip of the clip on the top of the valve, then pull straight up. Unscrew and remove the screws from the valve flange (on Kohler faucets).
Pull the valve assembly straight out of the faucet. Note: Loosen a Moen valve cartridge by placing a plastic removal tool on the valve cartridge and use pliers to turn the tool back and forth until the valve cartridge is loose enough to remove. Keep a towel near to clean up escaping water as the valve is removed. Pull the cartridge out of the faucet (located behind the valve assembly). Clean corrosion off the faucet with a wire brush.
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5
Slide the replacement cartridge into the faucet. Insert the replacement valve assembly and install the retaining clip, ring or flange. Reassemble the faucet by reversing your steps. Pick up the towels and uncover the drain. Turn the water supply back on.
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Tips & Warnings
Depending on the manufacturer, the valve and cartridge may be a one-piece instead of two, but the same replacement instructions apply. If a repair kit is sold for your valve cartridge, it may be possible to just replace the rubber parts to stop the leak.
Use a handle puller to remove a stuck faucet handle. Wear safety glasses and rubber gloves when using chemicals to remove corrosion from the faucet.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit clef a molette image by francois clappe from Fotolia.com
