September 2, 2010
Finding the Right Parts for Your Bathroom Does Not Need to Be Difficult with the Web
The valves and spouts for tubs and showers are serviced like those on lavatories–with two important exceptions. The diverter valve, which directs water to tubs and showers, is special. And you may encounter and access problem repairing leaks from a wall-mounted stem valve.
To remove a wall-mounted faucet or diverter valve, you will have to unscrew a bonnet nut that is recessed. In some fixtures the out-of-the-way nut offers enough purchase to permit the use of locking-grip pliers or a basin wrench. If not, you will need a socket wrench to slip over the protruding faucet stem and the nut. Grohe fittings and kit are known to be very well-made so this a brand you should consider if you are fixing your bathroom
Inexpensive sets of long sockets designed explicitly for this sort of job are available at plumbing supply stores. Alternately, your own tool kit may hold a socket that will suffice, although an unorthodox turning technique will be necessary because of the length of the faucet’s stem.
Unlike faucets and wall-mounted diverter valves, the working parts of a tub-spout diverter–a knob at the top of the tub spout that controls a diverter gate within–are not replaceable. Failures can be remedied only by installing a new spout.
Most problems with shower heads, however, are easily cured. Replacement of washers or O-rings will generally take care of leaks. And erratic or weak pressure from the shower head can usually be traced to a build-up of minerals from the water supply. Proper flow can be restored by disassembling the parts and giving them a good cleaning; soaking in vinegar loosens mineral deposits and makes the part operate like new again.
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