Why Does My Shower Diverter Squeal?

You absolutely dread taking a shower. The warm water is great, and the chance to be alone with your thoughts is even better — but that nasty squealing noise your diverter makes when you pull up the pin to turn on the shower makes your skin crawl.

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While it may be alarming at first, the noise is most likely your shower diverter squealing due to a blockage in your tub spout or a faulty valve. Here are some helpful tips for DIY fixes and how to know when it's time to call a plumber.

Why Is My Shower Diverter Squealing?

Shower diverters can squeal for a number of reasons, ranging from damaged internal components to heavy sediment buildup in the diverter cartridge and around the push/pull knob.

When hard water builds up and hardens, the hardened minerals can work their way into the crevices of your shower spout and the diverter itself. When you run water, the blockages can create whistling or squealing noises.

In some cases, a broken shower valve can make it seem like your shower diverter is squealing when the noise may actually be coming from the valves behind the shower walls. When these valves wear out, it may result in whistling sounds when you run the water.

Certain shower models are equipped with shower cartridge valves in the faucet/spout that aid in controlling water flow and water temperature. Hard water sediment and soap scum can cause blockages in the valve holes, leading to squealing or whistling noises when the water is turned on.

How Do I Fix My Squealing Shower Diverter?

The materials and tools needed and the steps to fix your shower diverter will depend on the underlying cause of the issue. For example, if the diverter is squealing due to mineral buildup, removing the blockage might fix the problem. If a broken shower valve or cartridge is causing the issue, it may need to be replaced by a plumbing professional. Here are some DIY steps to follow based on different scenarios.

Removing Mineral Buildup

In many cases, removing hard water/mineral buildup on the spout and diverter is all you'll need to do to stop the squealing noises and get your shower back on track. The two most common DIY methods are wrapping your shower spout in a vinegar-filled bag or removing the shower spout and diverter gate and soaking them in vinegar. While results can vary, the acidity in the vinegar should naturally dissolve and break down hardened mineral deposits. Follow these steps to eliminate stubborn sediment buildup.

Tools and materials needed

• White vinegar

• Plastic bag and twist ties

• Screwdriver or hex key

• Metal dish

Steps

1. Fill a plastic bag with white vinegar.

2. Wrap the bag around the spout so the entire spout and diverter are submerged in the vinegar. You can also remove the spout from the wall and soak it in a bowl of vinegar.

3. Leave the vinegar-filled bag in place for three to four days.

4. After three to four days, remove the bag and wipe down the spout.

5. Test your results by running the shower. If the diverter still makes squealing noises, contact a professional plumber.

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Change Out the Shower Diverter

If the water diverter is loose or won't stay in place when you pull it up, replacing it may remedy the issue. Follow these steps to change the diverter.

Tools and materials needed

• New shower diverter

• Screwdriver or hex key

• Washer

Steps

1. Purchase a new water diverter that's compatible with your existing shower spout.

2. Remove the shower spout by twisting it counterclockwise or by using a screwdriver or hex key.

3. Disassemble the existing diverter.

4. Replace the washer or clean the existing washer.

5. Install a new diverter.

6. Replace shower spout.

Call a Plumber

While removing mineral deposits and replacing the external diverter can usually be completed in a DIY fashion, issues such as broken shower valves or clogged pipes should always be addressed by a professional. It's also important to note that it's not always easy to determine the underlying cause of a squealing shower diverter without prior plumbing knowledge. If you're unfamiliar with your home's plumbing system or uncomfortable removing your shower spout, it's best to schedule a service call with a reliable licensed plumber.