Can a shower diverter be repaired?

What is a shower diverter?

A shower diverter is a valve that controls the flow of water in a shower system. It allows you to switch between different shower functions like switching between the shower head and a handheld shower wand. The diverter valve routes the water flow to the desired outlet.

Most shower diverters have three settings – shower head only, hand shower only, or both together. When you turn or pull the diverter knob, it routes the water to the corresponding outlet. Diverter valves are typically installed between the shower’s pipe supply and the shower head.

Why might a shower diverter need repair?

There are several common reasons why a shower diverter may not be working properly and require repair:

• Mineral buildup – Hard water deposits and mineral buildup can accumulate in the diverter valve over time. This prevents the diverter from sealing properly and directing water flow.
• Wear and tear – The seals and washers inside the diverter valve can wear out over time from repeated use. This allows water to leak past the seals resulting in improper water direction.
• Broken parts – Components like stems, cartridges, or plastic and brass fittings inside the diverter can crack or break leading to water leaks and flow issues.
• Age – Older diverters that have been in use for years may simply wear out internally or corrode.

Any of these issues can prevent the diverter from working correctly or cause dripping and leaking from the shower head or wand. If you notice your shower diverter not functioning properly, it likely needs repair.

Can you repair a shower diverter valve?

In many cases, a malfunctioning shower diverter valve can be repaired rather than completely replaced. Here are some tips on repairing a diverter valve:

• Disassemble the diverter – Carefully take apart the diverter valve by removing any retainer nuts or screws. This gives you access to the internal components.
• Clean mineral deposits – Use white vinegar or a limescale remover to dissolve any built up mineral deposits. Scrub away deposits with an old toothbrush.
• Replace seals and washers – Examine o-rings and rubber washers for cracks or damage. Replace any worn out seals with new ones.
• Grease components – Lubricate o-rings and rubber gaskets with non-petroleum grease. This allows parts to move smoothly.
• Replace broken parts – If any internal parts like stems are cracked or corroded, replace them with manufacturer replacement parts.
• Reassemble diverter – Put the diverter back together taking care not to pinch any seals. Make sure parts are aligned correctly.

Repairing just the failed internal sealing components can often fix a diverter valve without requiring a full replacement. However, if the body is cracked or too corroded, a new diverter valve may be necessary.

When to replace vs. repair a shower diverter

Here are some guidelines on when you can typically repair a shower diverter versus when replacement is needed:

Repair	Replace
Mineral buildup or corrosion inside	Cracked or damaged valve body
Worn rubber seals or gaskets	Significant corrosion or deterioration
Sticking or jammed internal parts	Very old diverter, unknown brand
Loose, broken, or missing internal components	Easier and cheaper to replace than repair

The key factors are the condition of the valve body and the cost of parts for repair versus replacement. For simple leaks and flow issues caused by worn seals or mineral buildup, repair is typically worthwhile. If the valve body itself is faulty or damaged beyond repair, replacement is likely the better option.

How to repair a delta shower diverter

Delta is a popular shower faucet brand. Here are some tips for repairing a Delta diverter valve specifically:

• Turn off water supply lines first and open the valve to relieve any pressure.
• Locate and remove the diverter valve trim plate to access interior parts.
• Unscrew the retainer nut holding the cartridge in place and pull it out.
• Examine o-rings for wear and clean or replace as needed.
• Use pliers to grip the stem and rotate it out. Replace if damaged.
• Scrub away any debris or mineral buildup from the valve body.
• Replace cartridge, lubricate o-rings, and reassemble.

Delta cartridge-style diverters involve straightforward disassembly and replacing common wear items like o-rings and seals. Keep in mind the specific Delta model for any replacement parts.

How to repair a Moen shower diverter

For Moen shower diverter valves:

• Shut off water lines and relieve pressure before working.
• Remove handle and escutcheon to access cartridge.
• Grasp cartridge firmly with pliers and pull it straight out.
• Inspect seals for damage. Run cartridge under water to clean.
• Replace any visibly damaged seals or o-rings.
• Grease replacement seals before reinserting cartridge.
• Check that cartridge感 coming out and going in straight.

Moen uses cartridge style diverters as well in many models. Focus on o-ring seals when repairing rather than internal components. Moen cartridges are commonly 1225 or 1222 models.

Repair parts needed for shower diverter valves

Some common replacement parts needed when repairing shower diverter valves include:

• Cartridges – Entire cartridge units may need replacement due to internal wear or broken stems.
• Seals – Rubber o-rings, gaskets, and washers are key to sealing and preventing leaks.
• Retainer nuts or clips – These hold the cartridge or valve assembly in place.
• Valve stems – These allow you to turn and actuate the diverter valve.
• Body fittings – Interior fittings connecting tubes or water lines may need to be replaced.

Keep in mind the diverter’s brand and model. Brands like Delta, Moen, Kohler, etc. have different replacement parts. Take pictures or bring the old part when obtaining replacements.

How to test a shower diverter for proper repair

After repairing or replacing components in a shower diverter, test it to verify proper operation:

• Turn on full hot and cold water supply to the shower.
• Check for leaks at connections and valve body.
• Switch diverter between outlet settings.
• Confirm strong flow from each selected outlet.
• Check that flow completely stops at non-selected outlets.
• Test on both hot and cold water settings.
• Check that any spray pattern issues are resolved.

Take your time testing all settings and combinations to ensure no drips or leaks. The diverter should smoothly switch water flow between the intended outlets with no mixing. Call a plumber if problems persist after repair efforts. Propertesting ensures your shower diverter is fixed for good.

Conclusion

Shower diverters commonly suffer from worn seals, mineral buildup and general wear over time. In many cases, the diverter valve can be repaired rather than replaced. This involves disassembling the valve, cleaning or replacing worn parts, greasing components and proper reassembly.

Focus on examining and replacing rubber seals and gaskets that deteriorate and cause leaks or flow problems. Severely damaged internal metal components may also need replacement. Test the diverter thoroughly after repair to confirm full function is restored before finishing the wall enclosure. With some patience and proper parts, repairing a shower diverter is very feasible.