Are you tired of having to switch between the shower and bathtub manually? A diverter valve can help! This handy device allows you to easily switch the flow of water from the showerhead to the tub spout, and vice versa. Installing a diverter valve is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few hours. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
Before you begin, you’ll need to gather a few tools and materials. You’ll need a diverter valve (available at most hardware stores), a wrench, a screwdriver, and some Teflon tape. Once you have everything you need, you can start the installation process. The first step is to shut off the water supply to your shower. Next, remove the showerhead by unscrewing it from the shower arm. Once the showerhead is removed, you’ll need to remove the old diverter valve. To do this, simply unscrew the valve from the shower arm. Now, you’re ready to install the new diverter valve. Start by wrapping the threads of the valve with Teflon tape, then screw the valve onto the shower arm.
Once the diverter valve is installed, you can reattach the showerhead. Turn on the water supply to your shower, and check for leaks. If there are no leaks, you’re all set! You can now enjoy the convenience of a diverter valve in your shower.
Installing the New Diverter Valve
1. Remove the Old Diverter Valve
Locate the screws holding the old diverter valve in place and remove them. Gently pull the valve away from the pipe, taking care not to damage the threads.
2. Check the Threads
Inspect the threads on the pipe and the new diverter valve. Ensure that they are clean and free of debris. If necessary, use a thread cleaner to remove any burrs or corrosion.
3. Apply Sealant
Apply a thin layer of sealant to the threads of the new diverter valve. This will help create a watertight seal.
4. Install the Diverter Valve
Thread the new diverter valve onto the pipe by hand, ensuring it is aligned correctly. Tighten it further using a wrench, being careful not to overtighten.
5. Install the Handle
Locate the handle on the new diverter valve and align it with the slot on the valve body. Slide the handle onto the valve and secure it by tightening the screw.
6. Reattach the Escutcheon
Take the escutcheon (the decorative plate surrounding the valve) and align it over the valve body. Secure it by tightening the screws. Ensure that the escutcheon fits snugly against the wall.
Additional Details for Step 6:
– If the escutcheon does not fit flush against the wall, you may need to use a spacer or washer to create a better fit.
– When tightening the escutcheon screws, avoid overtightening, as this can damage the plate or the wall.
– If the escutcheon has multiple screws, tighten them in a star pattern to ensure even pressure distribution.
– Once the escutcheon is secure, check for any gaps or leaks around the edge. If necessary, apply additional sealant to seal any leaks.
Testing the Diverter Valve for Leaks
Once the diverter valve is installed, it’s important to test it for leaks. This will ensure that the valve is functioning properly and that there are no water leaks.
To test the diverter valve for leaks, follow these steps:
1. Turn on the water supply to the shower or tub.
2. Open the shower or tub faucet and let the water run for a few minutes.
3. Check for any leaks around the diverter valve. If there are any leaks, tighten the packing nut or replace the O-ring.
4. Repeat steps 1-3 for the tub spout.
5. Turn off the water supply to the shower or tub.
6. Check for any leaks around the diverter valve. If there are any leaks, tighten the packing nut or replace the O-ring.
7. If there are no leaks, the diverter valve is installed and functioning properly.
8. If you are still experiencing leaks after following these steps, there may be a problem with the diverter valve itself. In this case, you will need to replace the diverter valve.
| Leak Location | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Around the diverter valve handle | Loose packing nut | Tighten the packing nut |
| Around the diverter valve body | Damaged O-ring | Replace the O-ring |
| Around the shower or tub spout | Loose connection | Tighten the connection |
How to Fit a Diverter Valve
A diverter valve is a plumbing fixture that allows you to control the flow of water between two different outlets. This can be useful for a variety of purposes, such as diverting water from a showerhead to a bathtub spout, or from a kitchen sink to a dishwasher. Diverter valves are relatively easy to install, and can be done in a few simple steps.
Step 1: Gather your materials.
You will need the following materials to install a diverter valve:
- Diverter valve
- Wrench
- Plumber’s tape
- Screwdriver
Step 2: Turn off the water supply.
Before you begin working on the diverter valve, it is important to turn off the water supply to the fixture. This can be done by turning off the main water valve for your home, or by turning off the individual water valve for the fixture.
Step 3: Remove the old diverter valve.
Once the water supply is turned off, you can remove the old diverter valve. To do this, simply use a wrench to unscrew the nuts that hold the valve in place. Once the nuts are loose, you can pull the valve off of the pipe.
Step 4: Install the new diverter valve.
To install the new diverter valve, simply reverse the steps that you used to remove the old valve. First, apply a small amount of plumber’s tape to the threads of the valve. Then, screw the valve onto the pipe. Finally, tighten the nuts that hold the valve in place.
Step 5: Turn on the water supply.
Once the diverter valve is installed, you can turn on the water supply. Check for leaks around the valve, and tighten the nuts as necessary.
Step 6: Test the diverter valve.
To test the diverter valve, simply turn on the water and check to make sure that the water is flowing to the correct outlet. If the water is not flowing to the correct outlet, you may need to adjust the position of the valve.
People Also Ask
How do I know if I need a diverter valve?
You may need a diverter valve if you want to control the flow of water between two different outlets. For example, you may need a diverter valve if you want to divert water from a showerhead to a bathtub spout, or from a kitchen sink to a dishwasher.
What are the different types of diverter valves?
There are two main types of diverter valves: push-pull diverter valves and lever diverter valves. Push-pull diverter valves are operated by pushing or pulling on a knob, while lever diverter valves are operated by moving a lever up or down.
How do I choose the right diverter valve?
When choosing a diverter valve, you need to consider the following factors:
- The type of fixture you are installing the valve on
- The number of outlets you want to control
- The flow rate of the water
- The style of the valve
- The price of the valve
