Do You Need to Shut the Water Off to Change a Tub Diverter?

Yes, it is essential to shut off the water supply before changing a tub diverter. Here's why and how to do it safely:

Why You Need to Shut Off the Water

1. Prevent Water Damage: Changing a tub diverter involves disassembling parts of your faucet, which can lead to water spilling out if the supply is still on. Shutting off the water prevents unexpected leaks and potential damage to your bathroom and surrounding areas.

2. Ensure Safety: Working on plumbing fixtures with the water supply on can be hazardous. Turning off the water reduces the risk of accidents and makes the job cleaner and more manageable.

3. Avoid Mess: With the water supply off, you can work on the diverter without dealing with running water, making the replacement process easier and cleaner.

Steps to Shut Off the Water Supply

1. Locate the Shutoff Valves:

   • Individual Shutoff Valves: These are often found behind the tub or sink, usually in a basement or crawl space. There might be separate valves for hot and cold water.
   • Main Shutoff Valve: If you can’t find individual shutoff valves or if your home only has a main shutoff valve, you’ll need to turn off the main water supply to the entire house.

2. Turn Off the Valves:

   • Individual Valves: Turn the hot and cold water shutoff valves clockwise to close them.
   • Main Valve: Turn the main shutoff valve clockwise to turn off the water supply to the entire house.

3. Drain the Pipes:

   • Open the faucet and turn on both the tub spout and showerhead (if applicable) to drain any remaining water from the pipes.

4. Check for Residual Water:

   • Before starting work, ensure no water is dripping from the faucet. This will confirm that the supply is off and that you can proceed with replacing the diverter without issues.

Steps to Change the Tub Diverter

1. Remove the Old Diverter:

   • Disassemble the Faucet: Depending on the type of diverter, you may need to remove the handle, cover plate, and the diverter itself.
   • Unscrew or Remove: Follow the specific method for removing the old diverter. It might be screwed on or held in place with a set screw.

2. Install the New Diverter:

   • Position the New Diverter: Align it with the faucet and secure it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
   • Reassemble the Faucet: Put all the components back together, ensuring they are tightened properly.

3. Turn the Water Back On:

   • Reopen the Valves: Turn the individual or main shutoff valves counterclockwise to restore the water supply.
   • Check for Leaks: Turn on the faucet to test the new diverter and ensure there are no leaks or issues with water flow.

Conclusion

Shutting off the water supply is a crucial step when changing a tub diverter. It prevents water damage, ensures safety, and makes the replacement process more manageable. By following these steps to properly turn off the water and replace the diverter, you can complete the job effectively and avoid potential problems.

If you have any doubts or run into difficulties during the process, consulting a professional plumber can provide additional guidance and ensure the job is done correctly.

For more plumbing tips and DIY guides, check out our other articles or leave a comment below if you have any questions!