The operating parts inside a tub faucet are similar to those in a sink faucet, and the repairs are very similar. Some shower valves have a diverter in the valve body that may need repairing or replacing; others will have no diverter or it will be on the tub spout (see image). Shut off water before making repairs.
Washerless Faucet
Internal parts, including the O-rings, springs or the cartridge may need cleaning or replacing. You may have to remove the handle and escutcheon to access parts.
Washer-Type Faucet
These have the same washer-type assembly as a sink faucet. You may need to remove recessed bonnet nut (see image right) to clean or replace washers or O-rings. Check condition of valve seat and replace or reface, if necessary.
Removing a Bonnet Nut
To reach a recessed bonnet nut, you may need to chip away surrounding tile with a hammer and cold chisel or with a rotary tool with a ceramic-tile bit. Remove only enough material so you can slip a deep socket wrench over the nut. Turn the wrench counterclockwise to loosen the nut. Coat parts with heat-proof grease before reinstalling.Recommended Reading
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Hand Spray Attachment
When it comes time to wash the kids or the dog, if you like a mobile shower- head or if you shower while sitting, replacing an existing showerhead with a detachable handheld model may be the best -- and least expensive-- way to handle the job. Some models even offer a vertical support arm that allows you to reposition the showerhead to make it more child-friendly.
1. Remove the old showerhead by holding the shower arm with a pipe wrench and protective cloth. Twist off showerhead using pliers or a wrench.
2.Wrap Teflon tape around the shower arm threads in a clockwise direction. Screw on sprayer attachment clip and tighten with pliers and protective cloth.
3. Attach
sprayer hose to attachment clip and tighten. If necessary, wrap clip
threads with Teflon plumbing tape.
Tub Spout Diverter
A tub spout diverter is a simple device that blocks water flow through a tub spout and redirects it through the shower pipe above the actual valve. The most common style uses a plunger rod that pulls up a gate to block the flow. If the diverter is faulty, your best bet is to replace the entire spout. The old spout will most likely be threaded, but some are held in place by a setscrew underneath the spout.
