How to Fix a Bathtub Faucet Diverter in 5 Easy Steps

How to Fix a Bathtub Faucet Diverter

Your bathtub faucet diverter is a small but important part of your plumbing system. It allows you to switch between the faucet’s spout and shower head, giving you the flexibility to choose how you want to bathe. But what happens when the diverter stops working properly?

If your bathtub faucet diverter is leaking, dripping, or not switching properly, it’s important to fix it as soon as possible. A faulty diverter can waste water, damage your plumbing, and even create a safety hazard.

In this article, we’ll show you how to fix a bathtub faucet diverter in just a few simple steps. We’ll also provide tips on how to prevent future problems.

So if your bathtub faucet diverter is giving you trouble, read on for the solution!

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

Identifying the Problem

What is a bathtub faucet diverter?

A bathtub faucet diverter is a small valve that controls the flow of water from the faucet spout to the showerhead. It is typically located on the handle of the faucet, and it can be turned to switch between the two functions.

What are the signs of a faulty diverter?

There are a few signs that indicate that your bathtub faucet diverter may be faulty. These include:

• The water flow from the spout is weak or intermittent.
• The water flow from the showerhead is weak or intermittent.
• The water temperature from the spout or showerhead is not consistent.
• The diverter is difficult to turn or does not stay in place.

How to remove the bathtub faucet diverter

To remove the bathtub faucet diverter, you will need the following tools:

• A screwdriver
• A pair of pliers
• A bucket

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the screws that hold the faucet handle in place.
3. Use the pliers to pry off the faucet handle.
4. Use the screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the diverter in place.
5. Carefully remove the diverter from the faucet.
6. Place the diverter in the bucket to catch any water that may leak out.

Choosing the Right Replacement Diverter

What factors to consider when choosing a replacement diverter

When choosing a replacement diverter, there are a few factors to consider:

• The type of faucet you have.
• The size of the diverter.
• The material of the diverter.
• The price of the diverter.

• The type of faucet you have. The most common type of bathtub faucet is a single-handle faucet. This type of faucet has a single handle that controls the flow of water from the spout and the showerhead. There are also two-handle faucets, which have separate handles for the spout and the showerhead.
• The size of the diverter. The size of the diverter will depend on the size of the faucet. Most diverters are about 1 inch in diameter.
• The material of the diverter. Diverters are typically made of plastic, metal, or ceramic. Plastic diverters are the most affordable option, but they are not as durable as metal or ceramic diverters. Metal diverters are more durable than plastic diverters, but they are also more expensive. Ceramic diverters are the most durable option, but they are also the most expensive.
• The price of the diverter. The price of a diverter will vary depending on the type, size, and material of the diverter. Plastic diverters are the most affordable option, while metal and ceramic diverters are more expensive.

How to install the new diverter

To install the new diverter, you will need the following tools:

• A screwdriver
• A pair of pliers
• A bucket

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Place the new diverter in the bucket to catch any water that may leak out.
3. Apply a thin coat of plumber’s grease to the threads of the diverter.
4. Thread the diverter onto the faucet.
5. Tighten the screws that hold the diverter in place.
6. Turn on the water supply to the faucet and test the diverter.

Replacing a bathtub faucet diverter is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can easily fix a faulty diverter and restore your bathtub faucet to working order.

3. Troubleshooting Common Problems

The diverter is leaking

If your bathtub faucet diverter is leaking, there are a few possible causes. The most common cause is a worn-out gasket. The gasket is a rubber ring that seals the diverter to the faucet body. When the gasket wears out, it can no longer create a tight seal, which allows water to leak out.

Another possible cause of a leaking diverter is a clogged cartridge. The cartridge is a small, cylindrical part that contains the diverter valve. If the cartridge becomes clogged with mineral deposits, it can prevent the diverter from working properly.

To fix a leaking diverter, you will need to identify the cause of the leak. If the leak is caused by a worn-out gasket, you will need to replace the gasket. If the leak is caused by a clogged cartridge, you will need to clean or replace the cartridge.

To replace a worn-out gasket, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the faucet handle.
3. Remove the old gasket.
4. Apply a thin coat of plumber’s grease to the new gasket.
5. Install the new gasket.
6. Reattach the faucet handle.

To clean or replace a clogged cartridge, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the faucet handle.
3. Remove the cartridge.
4. Clean the cartridge with a toothbrush and warm, soapy water.
5. If the cartridge is damaged, replace it with a new one.
6. Install the new cartridge.
7. Reattach the faucet handle.

The diverter is not working properly

If your bathtub faucet diverter is not working properly, there are a few possible causes. The most common cause is a stuck diverter. The diverter can become stuck if it is not lubricated properly or if it is clogged with mineral deposits.

Another possible cause of a non-functioning diverter is a damaged cartridge. The cartridge can become damaged if it is not installed properly or if it is subjected to excessive pressure.

To fix a stuck diverter, you will need to identify the cause of the problem. If the diverter is stuck because it is not lubricated properly, you will need to lubricate the diverter. If the diverter is stuck because it is clogged with mineral deposits, you will need to clean the diverter. If the diverter is damaged, you will need to replace the cartridge.

To lubricate a stuck diverter, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the faucet handle.
3. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the diverter.
4. Reattach the faucet handle.

To clean a clogged diverter, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the faucet handle.
3. Remove the diverter.
4. Clean the diverter with a toothbrush and warm, soapy water.
5. Reattach the diverter.

To replace a damaged cartridge, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the faucet handle.
3. Remove the cartridge.
4. Install the new cartridge.
5. Reattach the faucet handle.

The diverter is stuck

If your bathtub faucet diverter is stuck, there are a few possible causes. The most common cause is a worn-out gasket. The gasket is a rubber ring that seals the diverter to the faucet body. When the gasket wears out, it can no longer create a tight seal, which can cause the diverter to stick.

Another possible cause of a stuck diverter is a clogged cartridge. The cartridge is a small, cylindrical part that contains the diverter valve. If the cartridge becomes clogged with mineral deposits, it can prevent the diverter from working properly.

To fix a stuck diverter, you will need to identify the cause of the problem. If the diverter is stuck because of a worn-out gasket, you will need to replace the gasket. If the diverter is stuck because of a clogged cartridge, you will need to clean or replace the cartridge.

To replace a worn-out gasket, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the faucet handle.
3. Remove the old gasket.
4. Apply a thin coat of plumber’s grease to the new gasket.
5. Install the new gasket.
6. Reattach the faucet handle.

To clean or replace a clogged cartridge, follow these steps:

How do I know if my bathtub faucet diverter is broken?

• There is no water coming out of the faucet when you turn it on. This could be a sign that the diverter is stuck in the closed position.
• The water is coming out of the wrong faucet. This could be a sign that the diverter is not properly aligned.
• The water is dripping from the faucet even when it is turned off. This could be a sign that the diverter is leaking.

How do I fix a bathtub faucet diverter?

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet. This is usually located under the sink.
2. Remove the faucet handle. This is usually held in place by a screw or nut.
3. Remove the diverter. This is usually a small, round or rectangular piece of metal that is located behind the faucet handle.
4. Inspect the diverter for damage. If the diverter is damaged, you will need to replace it.
5. Clean the diverter. If the diverter is not damaged, you can clean it with a degreaser and a toothbrush.
6. Reinstall the diverter. Make sure that the diverter is properly aligned and that the screw or nut is tightened securely.
7. Turn on the water supply to the faucet. Test the faucet to make sure that the diverter is working properly.

What are some common problems with bathtub faucet diverters?

• The diverter is stuck in the closed position. This can be caused by a build-up of mineral deposits or debris.
• The diverter is not properly aligned. This can cause the water to come out of the wrong faucet or to drip from the faucet even when it is turned off.
• The diverter is leaking. This can be caused by a crack or hole in the diverter.

How can I prevent problems with my bathtub faucet diverter?

• Clean the diverter regularly. This will help to prevent a build-up of mineral deposits or debris.
• Be careful not to overtighten the diverter. This can damage the diverter and cause it to leak.
• Replace the diverter if it is damaged. A damaged diverter can cause water leaks and other problems.

  In this blog post, we have discussed how to fix a bathtub 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 bathtub faucet diverter yourself.

Here are some key takeaways from this blog post:

• There are two main types of bathtub faucet diverters: the single-handle diverter and the two-handle diverter.
• The most common problem with bathtub faucet diverters is that they become stuck in the open or closed position.
• To fix a stuck diverter, you will need to remove the faucet handle and then disassemble the diverter.
• Once the diverter is disassembled, you can clean it and then reassemble it.
• If you are unable to fix the diverter yourself, you can always call a plumber to help you.