Common DIY Tub and Shower Valve Installation Issues and Fixes

Eventually, the time comes to change tub or shower valve, and while many people choose to go it alone, a DIY project can run into problems. There are common DIY tub and shower valve issues that many people experience, even after everything has been installed and all looks good, it is usually only after the water is turned back on that problems are noticed. At this point, there are possible solutions that can be attempted to rectify most common post-installation issues from a new tub or shower valve.

If you have completed a tub or shower valve installation, and a little water is coming out, or, no water is coming out of the valve, then there are few things you can try to fix it:

Check that the water supply shut-off is in the “on” position – most folks who complete a DIY plumbing project for the first time often forget to turn the main water supply back on, however, even when water pressured is restored water still may not flow.

Flush the valve before installation – by flushing tub and shower valves before installation should remove any built-up debris or sediment that may be preventing water flow or cause water pressure to decrease. Simply remove the valve, clear any obstruction you may find, and then run the water for a minute or two before re-installing the valve to clear out debris or sediment that may be further up the supply line.

Warning: Make sure that before you turn the water supply back on, after removing the valve, to close the shower and tub doors, as the water will shoot out with high, unregulated pressure.

Check the temperature stop or temperature limiter – if your new tub or shower valve has a temperature stop or limiter, and it is incorrectly adjusted or the hot and cold water is reversed, then it could be restricting water that is either too hot or too cold from flowing out. Check the installation instructions for examples of how to correctly adjust the temperature limiter for your tub or shower.

Hot and cold water reversed – it can happen, the hot and cold water supply can be reversed, all you need to do is rotate the valve stem around and then reconnect the hot and cold water supply.

If you have plans to install a new tub or shower valve, and you want to avoid the common problems people face while conducting a DIY plumbing project, contact a professional plumber instead. That way, you can make sure the job is done right the first time.

Unfortunately, it’s true, many property owners end-up paying more money and spending more time than they had expected when undertaking a DIY plumbing project, but you don’t have too.

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