The point of a shower diverter is to reroute the water from the tub spout to the showerhead.
How Shower Diverters Start Causing Problems?
Over a period of time, a shower diverter can wear down due to repeated use, corrosion or hard water buildup. Inside the shower diverter there is something called a control mechanism. It is often a metal gate or a rubber seal that can control the flow of water. Over time and wear, those components of the diverter can become stuck, deteriorate or stiff.
When this happens you will notice the water flow will come from both the tub and the shower at once or the water will not reach the shower at all ! Another telltale sign of the shower diverter failing is the loss of water pressure. This is caused by the diverter not being able to fully close or seal.
Shower Diverter Damage Doesn’t Always Look the Same
A faulty or broken shower diverter does not always stop working completely. It can get stuck half way which will cause some of the water to be sent to the showerhead and some water back into the tub. Sometimes people will notice the water being discolored which is most likely caused by a corroded or rusted shower diverter valve inside of the fixture.
These issues can seem minor at first but if they are ignored it can lead to further plumbing issues. Examples are causing leaks behind the wall, waste of water or damaging other parts of your shower system.
What You Can Do About a Failing Shower Diverter
When repairing a shower diverter it is definitely possible to get it done without replacing the entire fixture. Depending on the extent of the damage and the type of shower diverter it can be possible to just replace some parts. Some prefer DIY replacements with a diverter kit while others would rather avoid the hassle and bring in a professional.
Now, not all shower diverters are the same. Some are part of older plumbing systems that require certain repair methods while others are more complex faucet systems. If you are not sure what type of shower diverter you have or you have noticed leaking, rust or low water pressure it can be best to let a licensed plumber take a look.
Let GEI Plumbing Services Fix It Right the First Time
Here at GEI Plumbing Services we definitely understand how stressful a faulty shower diverter can be. We have experienced technicians that can diagnose, inspect and repair your shower diverter asap! Whether it ends up being a minor repair or a full valve replacement, we are here every step of the way to make this process as smooth and seam less as possible.
If you suspect your shower diverter is failing don’t hesitate to Contact Us Today! We are here to keep your home running smoothly!
