How to Fix a Tub Faucet Diverter: A Step-by-Step Guide

AvatarByLiana Farrell Faucet Queries

How to Fix a Tub Faucet Diverter

A tub faucet diverter is a handy device that allows you to switch between the tub faucet and the shower head. But what happens when the diverter stops working? Don’t worry, you can usually fix it yourself with a few simple tools and steps.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of how to fix a tub faucet diverter. We’ll cover everything from identifying the problem to replacing the diverter itself. So if your tub faucet diverter is giving you trouble, read on for all the information you need to get it fixed!

Step Instructions Image
1 Turn off the water supply to the tub faucet.
2 Remove the handle from the faucet.
3 Inspect the diverter valve.
4 Clean or replace the diverter valve as needed.
5 Reassemble the faucet.
6 Turn on the water supply to the tub faucet.

Identifying the Problem

A tub faucet diverter is a small valve that allows you to switch between the tub spout and the shower head. If your diverter is broken, you may be unable to use either the tub spout or the shower head.

There are a few ways to tell if your tub faucet diverter is broken.

  • The water does not come out of the correct spout. If you turn on the faucet and the water comes out of the wrong spout, the diverter is likely broken.
  • The water does not come out of either spout. If you turn on the faucet and no water comes out of either the tub spout or the shower head, the diverter is likely broken.
  • The diverter is leaking. If you see water leaking from the diverter, the diverter is likely broken.

Common Causes of Diverter Malfunctions

There are a few common causes of diverter malfunctions.

  • Debris buildup. Over time, debris can build up in the diverter, preventing it from working properly.
  • Corrosion. Corrosion can cause the diverter to become stuck or to leak.
  • Damage. The diverter can be damaged if it is dropped or if something heavy is dropped on it.

Removing the Diverter

To remove the diverter, you will need the following tools and materials:

  • A screwdriver
  • A pair of pliers
  • A bucket
  • A towel

Steps to Remove the Diverter

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Disconnect the hoses from the diverter.
3. Remove the screws that hold the diverter in place.
4. Use the pliers to pry the diverter out of the faucet.
5. Place the diverter in the bucket to catch any water that may leak out.
6. Wipe down the faucet with a towel.

Replacing the Diverter

To replace the diverter, you will need the following tools and materials:

  • A new diverter
  • A screwdriver
  • A pair of pliers
  • A bucket
  • A towel

Steps to Replace the Diverter

1. Follow the steps above to remove the old diverter.
2. Apply a thin coat of plumber’s grease to the threads of the new diverter.
3. Insert the new diverter into the faucet.
4. Tighten the screws that hold the diverter in place.
5. Connect the hoses to the diverter.
6. Turn on the water supply to the faucet.
7. Test the diverter to make sure it is working properly.

Replacing a tub faucet diverter is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following the steps in this guide, you can easily fix a broken diverter and get your tub faucet back in working order.

Repairing the Diverter

A leaky or stuck diverter can be a real pain, but it’s a relatively easy fix. Here’s how to repair a leaky diverter:

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the faucet handle by unscrewing the setscrews on the back of the handle.
3. Remove the escutcheon plate by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place.
4. Remove the old diverter by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place.
5. Apply a thin coat of plumber’s grease to the new diverter.
6. Insert the new diverter into the faucet body and tighten the screws to secure it in place.
7. Replace the escutcheon plate and faucet handle.
8. Turn on the water supply to the faucet and test the diverter to make sure it is working properly.

Here’s how to repair a stuck diverter:

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the faucet handle by unscrewing the setscrews on the back of the handle.
3. Remove the escutcheon plate by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place.
4. Remove the old diverter by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place.
5. Use a small screwdriver to pry the diverter open.
6. Clean the diverter inside and out with a soft cloth.
7. Apply a thin coat of plumber’s grease to the diverter.
8. Reassemble the diverter and replace the escutcheon plate and faucet handle.
9. Turn on the water supply to the faucet and test the diverter to make sure it is working properly.

Reinstalling the Diverter

Reinstalling a diverter is a relatively simple process. Here are the steps involved:

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the faucet handle by unscrewing the setscrews on the back of the handle.
3. Remove the escutcheon plate by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place.
4. Remove the old diverter by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place.
5. Apply a thin coat of plumber’s grease to the new diverter.
6. Insert the new diverter into the faucet body and tighten the screws to secure it in place.
7. Replace the escutcheon plate and faucet handle.
8. Turn on the water supply to the faucet and test the diverter to make sure it is working properly.

Here are some tips for reinstalling a diverter:

  • Make sure that the new diverter is the correct size for your faucet.
  • Apply a thin coat of plumber’s grease to the threads of the diverter to make it easier to install.
  • Tighten the screws that hold the diverter in place until they are snug, but not too tight.
  • Test the diverter to make sure it is working properly before you turn on the water supply to the faucet.

Replacing a diverter is a relatively easy task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following the steps in this guide, you can have your leaky or stuck diverter fixed in no time.

How do I fix a tub faucet diverter that is leaking?

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet. This is usually located under the sink.
2. Remove the faucet handle. There may be a screw or clip holding it in place.
3. Inspect the diverter valve. This is a small, rubber or plastic valve located inside the faucet body. If it is damaged or worn out, it will need to be replaced.
4. Replace the diverter valve. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific faucet.
5. Reassemble the faucet and turn on the water supply. Test the faucet to make sure the leak is fixed.

How do I fix a tub faucet diverter that is not working?

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet. This is usually located under the sink.
2. Remove the faucet handle. There may be a screw or clip holding it in place.
3. Inspect the diverter valve. This is a small, rubber or plastic valve located inside the faucet body. If it is stuck or blocked, it will need to be cleaned or repaired.
4. Clean the diverter valve. Use a small brush or toothpick to remove any debris that may be blocking it.
5. Repair the diverter valve. If the valve is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
6. Reassemble the faucet and turn on the water supply. Test the faucet to make sure it is working properly.

How do I prevent a tub faucet diverter from leaking or malfunctioning?

1. Keep the faucet clean. Wipe down the faucet regularly to remove any dirt or debris that may build up and cause problems.
2. Don’t overtighten the faucet handle. This can damage the diverter valve and cause it to leak.
3. Replace the diverter valve regularly. The diverter valve is a wear item and will eventually need to be replaced.
4. Use a high-quality faucet. A well-made faucet will be less likely to develop leaks or malfunctions.

What are the signs of a faulty tub faucet diverter?

  • A leak from the faucet spout or the diverter lever
  • The faucet does not turn on or off properly
  • The water flow from the faucet is reduced
  • The diverter does not switch between the tub spout and the showerhead

If I can’t fix the tub faucet diverter myself, what should I do?

If you are unable to fix the tub faucet diverter yourself, you should contact a qualified plumber. They will be able to diagnose the problem and repair or replace the diverter valve as needed.

In this blog post, we have discussed how to fix a tub faucet diverter. We have covered the different types of diverters, the common problems that can occur with them, and the steps involved in repairing them. We hope that this information has been helpful and that you are now able to fix your own tub faucet diverter.

Here are some key takeaways from the article:

  • There are two main types of tub faucet diverters: single-lever and two-handle.
  • The most common problem with tub faucet diverters is that they become stuck in the open position.
  • To fix a stuck diverter, you will need to remove the handle and clean the valve stem.
  • If the diverter is leaking, you will need to replace the O-ring.
  • Tub faucet diverters are relatively easy to fix, and you can usually do it yourself with a few simple tools.

We hope that this blog post has been helpful and that you are now able to fix your own tub faucet diverter. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.