A faulty tub diverter can disrupt your bathroom’s water flow and cause inconvenience. The diverter is responsible for directing water between the tub spout and the showerhead. Identifying whether your diverter is malfunctioning can help you take appropriate action to fix or replace it. Here are some clear signs that indicate a bad tub diverter:
1. Inconsistent Water Flow
Sign: When switching between the tub spout and showerhead, the water flow is inconsistent or weak.
Possible Cause: A malfunctioning diverter may not fully engage in the desired position, causing uneven water flow.
What to Do: Check if the diverter moves smoothly and fully directs water to the selected outlet. If the issue persists, the diverter might need replacement.
2. Leaks from Both Outlets
Sign: Water leaks or continues to flow from both the tub spout and showerhead simultaneously, even when the diverter is in one position.
Possible Cause: This usually indicates that the diverter is not sealing properly, allowing water to escape through both outlets.
What to Do: Inspect the diverter for leaks and test if it effectively blocks one outlet while directing water to the other. If it doesn’t, consider replacing the diverter.
3. Difficulty Switching Between Tub and Shower
Sign: You experience resistance or difficulty when trying to switch the diverter from the tub spout to the showerhead or vice versa.
Possible Cause: A failing diverter may have internal parts that are worn out or stuck, making it hard to operate.
What to Do: Try operating the diverter and observe if it feels stiff or gets stuck. If so, the diverter mechanism may be faulty and could require replacement.
4. Water Continues to Drip
Sign: Water drips from the tub spout or showerhead even when the diverter is set to the opposite position.
Possible Cause: A defective diverter may not fully shut off one outlet, causing continuous drips.
What to Do: Look for persistent drips around the diverter area. If you notice consistent dripping, replacing the diverter is likely necessary.
5. Corrosion or Rust
Sign: Visible signs of corrosion or rust around the diverter or on the diverter handle.
Possible Cause: Corrosion or rust can damage the diverter’s internal parts, leading to leaks and performance issues.
What to Do: Inspect the diverter for signs of corrosion. If the diverter is corroded or rusted, it’s a good idea to replace it.
6. Unusual Noises
Sign: You hear unusual noises, such as banging or rattling, when water flows through the diverter.
Possible Cause: Noises can indicate that the diverter’s internal components are loose or malfunctioning.
What to Do: If you hear noises, check the diverter for any loose or damaged parts. Replacing the diverter may resolve the issue.
7. Visible Physical Damage
Sign: Physical damage such as cracks, chips, or broken parts on the diverter.
Possible Cause: Physical damage can impair the diverter’s functionality and cause leaks or operational problems.
What to Do: Examine the diverter for visible damage. If you find cracks or broken parts, replace the diverter to restore proper function.
Steps to Diagnose and Replace a Bad Diverter
Turn Off the Water Supply: Before inspecting or replacing the diverter, make sure to turn off the water supply to avoid leaks and water damage.
Inspect the Diverter: Check for any signs of wear, damage, or malfunctioning parts.
Test Functionality: Operate the diverter to see if it switches smoothly and effectively directs water to the tub spout or showerhead.
Replace if Necessary: If the diverter shows signs of failure, follow the steps to remove and replace it with a new one.
Reassemble and Test: After installing the new diverter, reassemble any removed components, turn the water supply back on, and test the diverter to ensure proper functionality.
Conclusion
A malfunctioning tub diverter can lead to various issues, including inconsistent water flow, leaks, and difficulty switching between outlets. By recognizing these signs, you can diagnose and address the problem promptly. If you find that your diverter is bad, replacing it will help restore proper function to your tub and shower system. If you’re unsure about diagnosing or replacing the diverter yourself, seeking assistance from a professional plumber can be a good option.
For more home maintenance tips and DIY guides, explore our other articles or leave a comment below if you have any questions!
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