How to repair a shower switch in a faucet, expert advice

The faucet in the bathroom is a very important element due to which the main purpose of this room is ensured - washing. Therefore, it is important that this element is in good condition and performs all its functions. Another important component of the faucet design is the shower. For many people, showering is the main way to wash their face in the morning and evening. But sometimes there are problems with the shower switch in the faucet. Therefore, it is important to know how to repair a shower switch in a mixer, because it depends on the type of malfunction of this device.

Types of faults

Bathrooms often have faucet devices that have shower switches. Of course, these types of structures are quite convenient; if necessary, you can always switch the water from the tap to the shower or vice versa. But do not forget that this part may fail. And if the main problem is not identified in a timely manner, you will have to completely replace the mixer.

If you suddenly need to repair the faucet in the bathroom and the shower switch, then this can be understood without much difficulty. Usually, when a breakdown occurs, the device begins to leak.

One of the shower switch options
Possible causes of switch failure:

• the occurrence of a leak in a single-lever device;
• the button is closed;
• simultaneous flow of water into the shower and into the area of ​​the main tap;
• reduced water pressure;
• leakage of the water control mechanism.

If the device of the push-button switch is familiar, then usually the problem of its breakdown is quickly identified. Therefore, if you have never had to repair this type of faucet, it is better to entrust the repair to a professional. But it is worth noting an important condition when a bathroom faucet with shower is being repaired. Tools should only be used to tighten the nuts; the rest is best done by hand, so as not to overtighten important elements of the structure and completely damage it.

Main causes of failure

Do-it-yourself faucet repair will not take much time if the cause of the malfunction is correctly determined. Every device fails at some point. The mixer is no exception.

It can break due to wear and tear of the components. The lower quality the materials, the shorter the service life of the components and the more often you have to repair the faucet in the bathroom. How to repair a bathroom faucet yourself?

Leakage from under the lever

Usually caused by a broken cartridge in a single lever faucet. The following signs will indicate that the cartridge has failed:

• the handle is difficult to rotate;
• the water supply is not completely shut off;
• the water temperature changes randomly;
• Cold water flows from a hot tap, and vice versa.

Replacing the cartridge

To replace a ceramic cartridge:

• remove the plug painted blue-red;
• use a Phillips screwdriver or hex key to unscrew the fixing screw;
• by pulling the handle up, disconnect it from the body, and then unscrew the lid;
• use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the nut securing the cartridge in the housing;
• replace the damaged cartridge.

After replacing the faulty element, you need to align the protrusions on the cartridge body with the grooves inside. If you overlook this, the faucet will leak.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=A9OOtNNw4S8

Valve leaking

In two-valve mixers, the sealing washer often wears out. Sometimes the crane axlebox also becomes unusable. Such breakdowns lead to leakage. To replace the valve axle or rubber ring:

• remove the plug from the faulty valve;
• unscrew the screw securing the valve to the mixer;
• use an adjustable wrench to disconnect the crane axle box;
• replace the valve axle or ring.

Replacing the crane axle box

Shower diverter leaking

Before repairing the bathroom faucet switch, be sure to turn off the water in the room. A leak from under the switch indicates that the seal between the mixer being repaired and the switch has become inoperative. To replace it:

• remove the button by clamping the rod with pliers;
• remove the valve with the stem;
• pull out the damaged oil seal.

Replacing the switch button

Broken shower switch button

If after water procedures the button cannot be returned to its original position, then its spring has broken. In this case, disassemble the switch according to the algorithm described above, take out the faulty spring and put a new one in its place.

Sometimes the shower switch does not work and water flows into the shower head and faucet at the same time. This is due to a crack in the oil seal, which is located on the rod. To fix this problem, you need to:

• remove the switch;
• get the rod;
• replace damaged oil seal.

Switch button

Many apartments still use the old cork switches. Over time, the button moves away from the body, resulting in a leak. To eliminate it you need:

• remove the screw;
• remove the handle;
• unscrew the nut;
• remove the lock washer;
• take out the cork;
• wipe the cork and the inside of the case with kerosene;
• To grind the plug to the body, use abrasive paste, paraffin or petroleum jelly.

In spool switches, the gasket may wear out. To replace it you should:

• disconnect the hose;
• remove the spout;
• unscrew the adapter;
• unscrew the valve;
• get the spool;
• replace rubber rings.

The repaired button will last for several more years.

Hose leaking

Over time, the gasket at the point where the hose attaches to the faucet wears out. A leak forms. This kind of damage is easiest to fix: you just need to unscrew the nut of the shower hose, remove the damaged washer and insert a new one in its place.

Leak between watering can and hose

To eliminate this malfunction in a faucet that has broken down, it is also not necessary to use tools. You just need to unscrew the nut securing the watering can to the hose and replace the insulating gasket.

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Clogged watering can

When troubleshooting bathroom faucets, repairs are not limited to replacing gaskets and cartridges. During long-term use, the holes in the shower head become clogged with sand, limestone and other hard deposits.

In order for the shower to work properly again, the screen must be disassembled and washed. In some models, the screw is located under a plastic cap in the center of the watering can. Sometimes in order to disassemble the mesh, it is necessary to turn it counterclockwise.

Weak pressure in the mixer

An aerator is screwed onto the end of the spout. It holds solids and increases water pressure. If the water flows in a thin stream, the reason lies in a clogged filter. To clean it, unscrew it with pliers, carefully disassemble it into its component parts and wash them under running water.

Types of switches

Before you start repairing the faucet, it is worth considering what types of switches there are. It is worth noting that the repair process for each type may have some differences, because the design of the switches has important features. The following types of construction are available:

• spool;
• suberic;
• cartridge;
• pull-out or push-button.

Exhaust

Cartridge

Suberic

The lever
spool type of design was common in Soviet times. Now this type is installed for valve type mixers with thin walls. The main criterion for spool devices is the handle, which is made of plastic or metal material. This element is installed between the faucet valves.

The cork device is considered old; it is practically no longer made. The fluid switching device is located in the middle. Compared to the spool switch, it is longer in size. The main part is a cork with a cutout. During its rotation, the process of combining the cutout with the area of ​​the water inlet and outlet holes is observed, and liquid penetrates into the tap area.

The cartridge type of switch is available in mixers from Russian manufacturers. This switch is difficult to make because it is difficult to find the necessary parts. If these elements break down, a complete replacement of the entire mixer is usually required.

The main purpose of an exhaust or push-button device is the process of mixing cold or hot water that penetrates through the central water supply system. There are several types of such a device:

• automatic type - used for modern cartridge-type products. Located in the area of ​​a separate block or on the surface of a swivel spout. The unique difference of the element is that when the water is turned off, it does not change the position of the spout or return from the shower position. The button performs regulatory functions: if you remove it, the liquid will come out of the watering can, if you insert it back, the liquid outlet will move to the spout position;
• simple type - this type is used on inexpensive models of mixers. But in appearance it also looks like an automatic type switch. The difference between this type of device is its operating principle. To do this, you need to remove the button and shut off the water supply. If it is stationary, then it is a simple device;
• Soviet-type switch - an element of this type can only be found on Soviet-type devices, which are not currently produced.

Automatic switches

Series of faucets with a button from the manufacturer Profsan

When choosing domestic plumbing equipment, it is easy to choose a reliable faucet model with an attractive design. High quality components will ensure uninterrupted operation of the device and will not force you to constantly decide what to do with a broken switch. The manufacturer offers wholesale quantities of plumbing fixtures and invites regional dealers to cooperate.

• Russian offers a series of Profsan PSM 521 mixers, equipped with a push-button shower switch. The button is located on the side under the body, but above the spout. Profsan PSM 521 has a standard push-button diverter.

• Additionally, there is an improved model 521 series with imported Profsan EURO 521 eccentrics.

• Another example of faucets with push-button shower switches are the “short-nose” series Profsan PSM 815 and Profsan PSM 837. In them, the pull-out button is located directly on the thickened spout on top. Operation is very convenient. Profsan PSM 837 is equipped with a PROF ECO dosed water supply cartridge.

• Products that belong to the classic Profsan PSM series are equipped with domestic eccentrics.
• Plumbing equipment from the Profsan Euro series is equipped with eccentrics of imported origin. Mixers from the Euro line are distinguished by a more stylish design and ergonomic handle.

The simplicity of the design allows you to repair the shower exhaust switch yourself, regardless of the selected series.

Features of repairing the shower switch in the mixer

In order to be able to properly repair a device with a shower switch, you first need to find out what the problem is with its malfunction. But many professionals recommend that if you have never encountered the design of mixers of this type, it is better to first study the repair features. But it is still advisable to invite a master who will do everything quickly, and most importantly, efficiently. So how to repair a bathroom faucet?

Replacing a failed cartridge

If the bathrooms have a simple single-lever faucet, the internal cartridge may cause the switch to break. This element ensures mixing of water currents during the operating process of the device. But it is worth remembering that it cannot be restored, so if it is broken, it must be replaced with a new one.

The repair process consists of the following stages:

• the first step is to remove the plug;
• use a screwdriver to unscrew the fixing screw;
• then the lever is removed;
• the nut is unscrewed, which secures the cartridge in the mixer;
• the old cartridge is removed and a new one is installed in its place;
• After this, the structure is assembled with special care.

Spool switch location

To remove the switch cover, simply unscrew the bolt.

Remove the switch cover

Unscrew the inner bolt

Switch replacement

Replacing O-rings

Push-button switching of faucets with showers is considered popular. However, these types of devices have a common disadvantage - water leakage due to rubber-based sealing rings that quickly become unusable. In these cases, you can use two ways to eliminate this problem - replacing the old sealing elements with new ones or cleaning and softening the old rubber ring. But it is better to make a complete replacement.

The entire replacement stage is performed according to the following scheme:

• First you need to remove the button - you can use an adjustable wrench to do this. Everything should be done with extreme caution so as not to damage other elements;
• using a wrench, the entire device is completely unscrewed;
• Next, the rod is removed;
• old sealing elements made of rubber material are removed and new rings are installed;
• The mixer is being assembled - during assembly you should be especially careful, all elements must be in place, all nuts must be tightened carefully so as not to tear them off or damage them.

O-ring set

Switch barrel with ring gaskets
If the rings are not old enough or are not on sale, they can be made soft. To soften, you can use standard solvent or gasoline. However, it is worth considering that this procedure will not completely eliminate the problem. Therefore, the leak may occur again after a short period.

Replacing the switch spring

Another problem with a malfunctioning switch device could be spring wear. The spring cannot be replaced, so in these situations this element is completely replaced with a new one.

Replacing the spring is carried out according to the following scheme:

• First, remove the spout and shower hose. An adjustable wrench and a wrench are used. Everything must be done carefully so as not to damage the spout or hose, otherwise you will have to completely change the entire mixer;
• after this the adapter is removed;
• then the plug and the fixing type screw are unscrewed;
• the rod in which the old spring is located is removed;
• the old spring is removed;
• Next, a new working spring is installed;
• in the end everything comes back together.

The return spring is visible in this photo

Problems and solutions

So, what to do if the shower switch on the mixer breaks down in each of the cases described above? Let's move on to the common problems with each type of switch.

Suberic

Mixer tap with cork switch.

As already mentioned, these products are extremely fault-tolerant. However, they also have two diseases.

Button

What does repairing a switch with a gander and shower mode look like for a push-button design?

She has three typical malfunctions:

The switch does not hold water: it flows into the gander and shower at the same time. The reason is uneven wear or complete destruction of the rubber valve. It can only be treated by replacing it or, if the corresponding spare part is not on sale, by completely replacing the mixer. The button spontaneously returns to its original state after pressing with a small amount of water pressure. The reason is an excessively tight return spring. It is enough to bite off one or two turns of the spring - and the mixer starts working absolutely normally.

The return spring is clearly visible in the photo.

Finally, if the shower switch on the faucet is leaking, the cause is a worn o-ring. It again changes to a new one; rings, as a rule, are included in gasket sets for repairing domestic faucets. The price of a set rarely exceeds 20 - 30 rubles.

Hint: if the push-button switch is equipped with a gland nut, instead of a rubber seal, you can place a thread of graphite gland under it.

With a keg

Here are the diseases of this design:

The water does not shut off to the gander or shower. The reason is wear of the gaskets or, which happens much more often, destruction of the bolt securing one of them. The problem, as you might guess, is eliminated by replacing the gasket or bolt.

Useful: it’s easy to cut a gasket with your own hands from an old inner tube from a truck wheel.

The switch does not rotate to its extreme positions. The reason is the wear of the barrel or the guides in the mixer body: due to the large gap between them, the barrel stands up askew and jams.

Repairing a shower diverter for a faucet usually involves replacing the barrel; A temporary solution to the problem could be to install improvised guides made from pieces of aluminum wire into the mixer body.

If there is a leak along the rod, the rubber seal is again changed or the oil seal is filled.

A beginner may have a reasonable question: how to remove the shower switch on the mixer if the barrel does not want to leave the body?

The sequence of operations is important here.

After unscrewing the fastening screw, remove the switch lever. We unscrew the oil seal (if there is one). We take out the eccentric.

The eccentric will not allow the barrel to be removed while it is in the mixer body.

Unscrew the nut on the mixer body under the shower hose. We remove the gander. We push the barrel through the hole in the mixer body from the bottom up.

Ceramic

How do I repair a shower diverter whose handle can turn a full rotation?

Of modern mixers, these are the most fail-safe; the author cannot remember a single one of them breaking due to natural wear and tear.

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Problems can arise only when two circumstances coincide:

Lack of filters at the entrance to the apartment or house. When repairing the water supply line, scale or coarse sand may get into it, which sooner or later will end up in the mixer. Significant physical strength of the owner with a complete lack of common sense. If you try to turn a cartridge jammed by scale by force, the result will be a little predictable: either one of the ceramic plates or the plastic retainer that holds it will break.

The repair instructions in this case are also quite predictable: the damaged cartridge is replaced with a new one. To replace, simply remove the handle and the fixing nut.

This is what the cartridge looks like.

Spool switch

The main and most common problem with a spool-type device is the appearance of leakage from under the handle, which is located between the shower and the spout. Leakage can occur for several reasons:

• wear of the rubber base rings, which are located in the area of ​​the crank rod;
• wear or absence of the sealing element made of rubber base, which is located on the switch box;
• weak fixation of the crank screw or mixer axle box.

To find out the type of breakdown, unscrew the switch handle and turn on the water supply. Where the water will flow from is where the repair work should be done.

If liquid leakage is observed at the place where a special screw or axlebox is attached to the housing, then a sealing gasket element made of a rubber base will need to be installed for the axlebox, and a sealing type will need to be wound for the screw.

If leakage is observed at the outlet of the rotary rod from the screw or axlebox, then you need to completely remove them using wrenches or gas-type wrenches. Then the rubber sealing elements in the rotary rod are replaced.

Leaking from under the faucet lever

This malfunction occurs due to a broken cartridge. It is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• spontaneous change in water temperature;
• lack of supply of cold or hot liquid;
• changing the stroke of the lever;
• incomplete shutdown of the tap.

In these cases, the cartridge is replaced.

The faucet is leaking.

Push button switch

Typically, devices of this type fail for two reasons:

• loss of elasticity or spring breakage. To check, you need to turn off the water; if the button does not return from the shower position to the spout, it means the spring has broken. You need to remove the spring and install a new one. You can put a rubber gasket under the screw, then the properties of the spring will be restored;
• wear of valve rings - leaks can occur due to wear of the rubber sealing rings. To do this, you need to turn off the spout and insert a screwdriver into the adapter area. Next, the adapter is carefully removed and the valve is pushed out with the rod. The aged rings are replaced with new ones, and everything is put back together.

How to assemble a button after repair

At the stage of disassembling the button, it was necessary to remember, photograph or write down the order of the parts. Now you need to put everything back together in reverse order. First the rod with the parts, and then the fasteners (if any) and install the button itself.

Plug type switch

The main malfunction of this type of device is poor fit of the plug to the switch. To eliminate the malfunction, the switch is completely disassembled, so it is important to know how to disassemble the mixer:

• First, the screw is unscrewed;
• the handle is removed;
• the cap handle is unscrewed;
• the lock washer is removed;
• the plug is pulled out.

Nowadays, cork switches can be found in retro-styled plumbing fixtures.
Then the cork can be wiped with gasoline, kerosene, and the inside of the case can also be wiped with the same substances. If the plugs are damaged, you can use an abrasive paste. Troubleshooting shower switches in faucets is a rather complicated process that requires care and experience.
It’s better to start by fully learning how to repair a faucet depending on the type, and only then can you begin further repairs. If you have never had to repair switches, then it is better to use the help of professionals.

Necessary tool

Before you begin the “treatment”, you will need to assemble and prepare the instrument. You will probably need a screwdriver or even several, pliers, keys, a wallpaper knife with a thin blade, as well as special hex bits. This is the minimum kit required to restore a faucet or shower switch in a bathroom.

Flat head screwdriver

Using a flat-head screwdriver, the components are disassembled (the screws are unscrewed). It can also be used to clean minor deposits of dirt and salts, and to pick up the decorative plug that covers the inside of the mixer or switch.

Pliers

Pliers are convenient for unscrewing stuck bolts and hexagons. They are also used if you need to hold a part on one side and tighten (unscrew) it on the other. The grooved notch on the jaws firmly presses against the surface, preventing it from slipping out.

Wallpaper knife

A special knife with a narrow retractable blade is suitable for cleaning threads, and it also cuts the gasket. During operation, the cutting part moves out of the body and is fixed. After finishing, he hides again. This knife is as safe as possible.

adjustable wrench

A wrench with a variable distance between the jaws (adjustable) is convenient because it works over a wide range. Control is carried out by rotating the thumb: this is much more convenient than constantly holding keys of different sizes, depending on the specific size of the switch shank being unscrewed, the bolt head.

Gas key

Additional gripping force is created by bringing the handles of the gas wrench together. The principle of operation is similar to that of an adjustable one. With a certain amount of skill, you can twist (hold) smooth, cylindrical parts with it. But there will inevitably be jagged marks on their surface. Therefore, working with soft brass with an adjustable wrench is not recommended, only as a last resort!

Hexagons

In modern faucets, in addition to standardized screws with a Phillips or flat slot, they use fasteners with a recessed hexagonal recess. Such a bolt requires a specific wrench; it cannot be unscrewed with a regular one.

Principles of repair work

As a rule, a malfunction of the faucet is indicated by water leakage .

Repair begins with identifying the cause of this unpleasant phenomenon. The breakdown of the mixer switch is considered difficult , since it is located between the drain valve and the hose .

This is a complex mechanism that blocks the flow of water. When the “ spout ” mode is turned on, the “ shower ” mode is disabled.

Such a device has two positions : flow redirection and stop mode . When the “ gander ” is turned on, the “shower” mode is immediately blocked . the opposite effect also occurs . violates this concept .

Attention! The main enemy of plumbing products is tap water , which is not always of high quality. It contains impurities that can render any faucet unusable .

Varieties

Modern faucets, for various reasons, differ in design features. Traditional, reliable, budget models of mixers are produced - for every taste and budget. The following types are distinguished:

• with spool;
• suberic;
• with cartridge;
• exhaust

Accordingly, an individual approach, a specific “treatment method,” is applied to each type of switch.

Spool

Citizens primarily dealt with such switches in the Soviet years; now they have been practically replaced. The unit is located in the middle between the cold and hot water supply valves. Still sometimes found in budget options, with thin-walled cases. Not highly reliable.

Suberic

Cork switches fall into the obsolete category: you won’t find them on new faucets. The principle of operation is based on combining a cutout in a rotating unit, a plug, with mating pipes in the mixer. The dimensions exceed spool valves, but they are not compact.

Cartridge

One of the most reliable switches. It contains a ready-made, non-separable unit for mixing, supplying water to a shower or faucet, and a cartridge. The advantages of the design are offset by the fact that this type cannot be restored. Replacement only.