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

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How to Replace a Tub Faucet Diverter

Your tub faucet diverter is a small but important part of your plumbing system. It allows you to switch between the tub faucet and the shower head, giving you the flexibility to choose how you want to get clean.

Over time, your diverter can start to malfunction. It may become stuck in one position, or it may leak. If this happens, you’ll need to replace the diverter.

Replacing a tub faucet diverter is a relatively simple task that you can do yourself. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps involved, so you can get your tub back in working order in no time.

What You’ll Need

To replace your tub faucet diverter, you’ll need the following materials:

  • A new diverter
  • A screwdriver
  • A pair of pliers
  • A bucket
  • Plumbing tape

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Turn off the water supply to the tub faucet.
2. Remove the escutcheon plate from the faucet. This will expose the screws that hold the faucet in place.
3. Remove the screws and carefully lift the faucet out of the sink.
4. Locate the diverter. It’s a small, cylindrical valve that’s usually located near the bottom of the faucet.
5. Remove the old diverter by unscrewing it.
6. Apply a small amount of plumbing tape to the threads of the new diverter.
7. Insert the new diverter into the faucet and screw it into place.
8. Replace the escutcheon plate.
9. Turn the water supply back on to the tub faucet.

Test the Diverter

Once you’ve replaced the diverter, turn on the water and test it to make sure it’s working properly. You should be able to switch between the tub faucet and the shower head without any problems.

If the diverter is still not working properly, you may need to contact a plumber for assistance.

Step Instructions Image
1 Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2 Remove the old diverter by unscrewing it from the faucet.
3 Install the new diverter by screwing it into the faucet.
4 Turn the water supply back on and test the diverter.

A tub faucet diverter is a valve that allows you to switch between the faucet’s spout and shower head. If your diverter is broken or leaking, you can usually replace it yourself with a few simple tools and materials.

This guide will walk you through the steps of replacing a tub faucet diverter. We’ll provide detailed instructions and images to help you get the job done quickly and easily.

Tools and materials you will need

  • Replacement diverter
  • Adjustable wrench
  • Phillips head screwdriver
  • Tape measure
  • Penetrating oil
  • Rags

Step-by-step instructions

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet. This is usually located behind the faucet or under the sink.
2. Remove the old diverter. To do this, you will need to loosen the screws that hold it in place. These screws are usually located on the bottom of the diverter.
3. Apply penetrating oil to the threads of the new diverter. This will help to make it easier to install.
4. Install the new diverter. Slide the diverter onto the faucet spout and tighten the screws.
5. Turn on the water supply to the faucet and test the diverter. Make sure that the water flows from the spout and shower head as expected.

Replacing a tub faucet diverter is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can save yourself the time and money of hiring a plumber.

Here are some additional tips for replacing a tub faucet diverter:

  • If the old diverter is stuck, you can try using a heat gun or hair dryer to loosen it.
  • Be careful not to overtighten the new diverter, as this could damage the threads.
  • If you are unsure about how to replace the diverter, you can always consult a plumber.

How to Replace Tub Faucet Diverter?

A tub faucet diverter is a valve that allows you to switch between the tub spout and the shower head. It is a common problem for diverters to become stuck or leaky, and in some cases, they may even need to be replaced entirely. Replacing a tub faucet diverter is a relatively simple task that can be completed in about an hour. However, it is important to follow the steps carefully to avoid damaging the faucet or the plumbing.

Tools and Materials

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

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Penetrating oil
  • New diverter valve
  • Teflon tape
  • Pliers
  • Bucket

Step 1: Turn off the water supply to the tub faucet

The first step is to turn off the water supply to the tub faucet. This can usually be done by turning a valve located near the faucet. Once the water supply is turned off, you can begin to remove the faucet.

Step 2: Disconnect the water supply lines from the faucet

The next step is to disconnect the water supply lines from the faucet. These lines are usually located behind the faucet and are held in place by a compression fitting. To disconnect the lines, you will need to use a wrench to loosen the compression fitting. Once the lines are disconnected, you can remove the faucet.

Step 3: Remove the old diverter valve

The old diverter valve is usually held in place by a set screw. To remove the valve, you will need to use a flathead screwdriver to loosen the set screw. Once the set screw is loosened, you can remove the old diverter valve.

Step 4: Install the new diverter valve

To install the new diverter valve, you will need to first apply a small amount of Teflon tape to the threads of the valve. This will help to create a seal and prevent leaks. Once the tape is applied, you can insert the new diverter valve into the faucet. Be sure to tighten the set screw until the valve is secure.

Step 5: Reconnect the water supply lines to the faucet

The final step is to reconnect the water supply lines to the faucet. To do this, you will need to use a wrench to tighten the compression fittings. Once the lines are reconnected, you can turn on the water supply to the faucet and test to make sure that the diverter is working properly.

Replacing a tub faucet diverter is a relatively simple task that can be completed in about an hour. However, it is important to follow the steps carefully to avoid damaging the faucet or the plumbing. If you are not comfortable with DIY projects, it is best to hire a professional plumber to complete the job.

How do I know if my tub faucet diverter needs to be replaced?

There are a few signs that your tub faucet diverter may need to be replaced. These include:

  • The diverter is leaking.
  • The diverter is not working properly.
  • The diverter is damaged.

If you notice any of these signs, it is best to have the diverter replaced as soon as possible. A leaking diverter can waste water and damage your plumbing. A non-functioning diverter can make it difficult to take a bath or shower. A damaged diverter can be a safety hazard.

How do I remove the old diverter?

To remove the old diverter, you will need:

  • A wrench
  • A screwdriver
  • A pair of pliers

1. Turn off the water supply to the tub faucet.
2. Locate the setscrews that hold the diverter in place. These screws are usually located on the underside of the faucet.
3. Use the wrench to loosen the setscrews.
4. Use the screwdriver to pry the diverter away from the faucet.
5. Use the pliers to remove the old gasket.

How do I install the new diverter?

To install the new diverter, you will need:

  • A new diverter
  • A new gasket
  • A wrench
  • A screwdriver

1. Apply a thin layer of plumber’s grease to the gasket.
2. Insert the gasket into the diverter.
3. Align the diverter with the faucet.
4. Use the wrench to tighten the setscrews.
5. Turn on the water supply to the tub faucet.

How do I test the new diverter?

To test the new diverter, turn on the water supply to the tub faucet. Turn the diverter to the hot water position. Make sure that the water is flowing freely from the hot water faucet. Turn the diverter to the cold water position. Make sure that the water is flowing freely from the cold water faucet.

If the water is not flowing freely from either faucet, you may need to adjust the diverter. To adjust the diverter, turn the setscrews slightly. Turn the setscrews clockwise to increase the flow of water. Turn the setscrews counterclockwise to decrease the flow of water.

What are some common problems with tub faucet diverters?

There are a few common problems with tub faucet diverters. These include:

  • Leaking diverters
  • Non-functioning diverters
  • Damaged diverters

Leaking diverters can waste water and damage your plumbing. Non-functioning diverters can make it difficult to take a bath or shower. Damaged diverters can be a safety hazard.

How can I prevent problems with my tub faucet diverter?

There are a few things you can do to prevent problems with your tub faucet diverter. These include:

  • Keep the diverter clean and free of debris.
  • Lubricate the diverter with plumber’s grease every few months.
  • Tighten the setscrews regularly to prevent leaks.

By following these tips, you can help to extend the life of your tub faucet diverter and prevent problems.

In this tutorial, we have shown you how to replace a tub faucet diverter. This is a relatively simple task that can be completed in just a few minutes. However, it is important to follow the steps carefully to avoid damaging the faucet or yourself.

We hope that this tutorial has been helpful. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments below.

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.