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Turn Off the Water Supply — Turn Off the Shower Water Supply

Beginner3 hours

Part of project

Shower Diverter Installation: Switch Water Between Tub & Showerhead · Step 1 of 5

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Before beginning the repair, you must shut off the water to the shower. Locate the shut-off valves, which are often under a nearby sink or in the basement, and turn them clockwise to close them. If you cannot find local shut-off valves, you will need to turn off the main water supply to the entire house. Once the water is off, turn on the shower faucet to release any remaining pressure and drain the water left in the pipes.

Goal: Turn Off Water Supply

  • Turning on the faucet after shutting off the water confirms the water is off and relieves pressure, preventing splashes during disassembly.
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FAQs

Beyond a screwdriver and Teflon tape, what other tools or materials might I unexpectedly need for this shower diverter installation?

While a multi-screwdriver and Teflon tape are essential, it's wise to have an adjustable wrench or pliers on hand for securely tightening the new diverter. You might also find a utility knife useful for cutting away old caulk, and a flashlight to better see into tight spaces.

What should I do if I can't find the shut-off valves for my shower or entire house?

If you can't locate local shut-off valves for your shower, you'll need to turn off the main water supply to your entire house. This is typically found near your water meter or where the main water line enters your home. Always ensure the water is completely off before starting work to prevent flooding.

I've installed the new diverter, but it's leaking when I turn the water back on. What's the most common reason for this?

The most common cause for leaks after installation is insufficient tightening or improper application of Teflon tape. Ensure you've wrapped the Teflon tape clockwise around the threads 3-5 times, and gently but firmly tighten the diverter valve with a wrench or pliers until snug, without over-tightening.

Is this really a beginner-friendly project, and can I realistically complete it in 3 hours?

Yes, this project is generally beginner-friendly as it primarily involves unscrewing and screwing parts. The 3-hour estimate is reasonable for someone with basic DIY skills, but prepare for potential delays if old parts are stuck or if you need to locate a main water shut-off.

Transcript
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An adjustable wrench, needle nose pliers, plumber's grease, a towel, or rack, a bucket. Before we do anything, we need to turn off the water supply to the shower. Look for the shut-off valves that are usually under the sink or in the basement, turn them clockwise to shut off the water. If you can't find the valves, you may need to turn off the main water supply to your house. Once the water is off, go ahead and turn on the shower to release any pressure and drain the remaining water. This will prevent any surprises when we remove the cartridge.

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.