The mixer does not switch to the shower. types of shower switch in the mixer and repair of each of them

How to repair yourself

If the shower switch on the faucet has gone awry, has stopped working normally, do not rush to panic. With a high degree of probability, it is possible to restore it, instead of buying a new one. But first, the diagnosis: the type of switch, the "symptomatology of the disease", the search for a solution.

Replacing the shower switch cartridge

Everything is good in a cartridge mixer or a switch for a shower: it works smoothly, provides maximum comfort during use, and is durable. But in the event of a breakdown, it will not be possible to repair it. Replacement only. Symptoms of a malfunction are leaks from under the lever, a tight switch.

First, remove the plug covering the hole for access to the lever mounting bolt. This is done with a wallpaper knife, a screwdriver. Then, lifting the lever to the upper position (after blocking the water to the mixer), unscrew the bolt with a hexagon until it is possible to remove the handle from the shank of the cartridge. Next, the decorative skirt and the nut holding the switch assembly are removed. The old cartridge is removed, and a new one is put in its place in the same way. The assembly takes place in the reverse order.

Replacing the shower switch O-rings

Often the cause of leaks, poor performance of the shower is the wear of the seal. In plumbing, rubber rings are still used; no alternative has been found to them. To restore, you will need a set of new rubber bands, as well as a clear understanding of what exactly needs to be disassembled for this. Carefully acting with keys, they get to the damaged unit and perform a replacement

At the same time, it is important not to exceed the recovery volumes, not to damage anything.

How to replace a switch

Before replacing the shower switch, two important conditions must be met:

• find out the type of node;
• buy a new one.

Next, you need to remove the old switch, being careful not to damage anything. In some cases, the entire mixer is replaced, especially for outdated designs (spool or cork). The mating threaded transitions must match in diameter, it will not work to hammer them with a hammer.

What to do if the aerator gets dirty

The aerator is a sleeve with a set of nets through which water passes. Over time, they clog, which affects the pressure. To clean the aerator, it must be carefully unscrewed, rinsed, and, if necessary, cleaned with a toothpick, a thin awl.

Replacing gaskets

Gaskets are not used in modern mixers, only in outdated, spool designs. All decorative plugs, levers or thumbs must be removed to gain access to the unit being restored. Then the switch cover is removed. And already under it is installed (screwed in) a spool with a gasket.

Removing the handle

Dismantling begins with an inspection: how exactly the handle is attached to the switch. Usually the screw holding it is hidden under a special cover. It is screwed in or snapped into place. Using a tool, it is removed to get to the bolt. Then it remains to unscrew it and remove the handle.

Replacing gaskets

A spool is installed in the switch housing. It is carefully unscrewed, the gasket is replaced (it must match in diameter and thickness with the old one), then assembled in reverse order.

Mixer assembly

When the mixer spool is screwed in, they try not to leave the factory settings. Too deep installation reduces the number of revolutions when opening the valve to full, superficial - on the contrary, increases them. Then the cover is installed, all nuts are tightened.At the very end, the switch lever is mounted, fixed with a screw.

Unstable operation of the switch assembly, sudden "pop-out" indicates wear of the spring or o-rings

To disassemble the assembly and then remove the spring, you must operate with confidence and care. You will need to completely remove the button together with the stem, install a new spring to replace the old one, and then assemble the assembly in the same sequence

Repair manual for shower switch button for mixer

Button Switch Repair

The shower button can stop cutting off the water in extreme positions or start spontaneously dumping from the “shower” mode to the gander when the water pressure is insufficient.

The reason for the first malfunction is the failure of the rubber seal. In this case, it needs to be replaced.

For this you need:

1. Shut off the water supply;
2. Unscrew the gander using an adjustable wrench;
3. Disconnect (unscrew) the decorative cap of the button;
4. Remove the stem with the spring from the body;
5. Unscrew and remove the valve;
6. Remove the old O-rings from the valve;
7. Install new rings of the same shape and size (sold in the plumbing department);
8. Collect everything in reverse order.

If the shower faucet button stops returning to its original position when the water is turned off, then the cause of the breakdown is the wear of the spring or its damage. In this case, the spring must be replaced.

Spool switch repair

If the mixer is equipped with this type of switch, over time, water may start to flow from under the handle.

The main reasons for the leak in this case:

• damaged / worn rubber O-rings on the crank rotary rod;
• the rubber gasket on the switch box is worn out or missing;
• the crank screw is loose or the mixer axle is not tightly fixed.

If water seeps out at the point where the axle box is attached to the mixer body, it is necessary to disassemble it with a wrench or gas wrench and install a new gasket.

If water leaks in one of the switch positions, it is most likely that the seal gaskets on the spool have become unusable. In this case, unscrew the spool, replace the gaskets and clean all working surfaces from limestone.

Ball switch problems are rare and are usually caused by excessively hard water when limescale deposits form on the surface of the operating elements.

If the mixer itself is inexpensive, then the metal from which the ball mechanism is made can be coated with a layer of oxide.

In both the first and second cases, you can solve the problem by disassembling the mixer and cleaning the mechanism from plaque, as shown in the video:

1 Types of stop valves and their common problems

Over the past decades, the design of switches has undergone significant changes. Many of the Soviet types of switches have been replaced by more modern counterparts. Let's take a closer look at new and outdated models to understand what we have to deal with. Let's start with the older types of shower switches - spool and cork. They have a lever that can be rotated 90 and 120 degrees. The spool switch is practically not found on the market today, however, if you have an old Soviet-style mixer installed, most likely you are dealing with this particular design. A spool is installed inside the switch, which consists of a barrel and an eccentric. The mechanism is driven by rotation of a stem with a projection offset from the center. The stem adjusts the movement of the keg up or down. An external feature of this type of switch is the presence of a plastic or metal handle in the form of a flag.Frequent problems of the spool system are breakage of the eccentric protrusion, failure of the barrel, sensitivity to liming, as a result of rotting of the bolts and destruction of the gaskets.

Spring type shower switch

The plug switch is an improved version of the spool valve. A distinctive feature of the cork system is the presence of a slotted brass cork inside and a switch handle 7–10 cm long. This type of switch ceased to be mass produced in the 90s of the last century. However, there are those who still use the mixer with this type of switch. Common reasons that can await the owners of the plug switch are an overtightened nut that interferes with the smooth rotation of the handle, leakage along the stem due to partial wear of the plug.

Modern bath-shower switches are available in push / pull, ball and cartridge types. The pushbutton switch is externally a drawer plug with a spring-loaded stem that drives the check valve. When moving down, he blocks the water to the spout (gander), switches it to the shower. When the rubber valve is worn out, the work of the shut-off system is disrupted, water flows simultaneously from the spout and shower head. The wear of the exhaust switch fittings also leads to the spontaneous return of the button after being pressed at a minimum water pressure. In such a situation, we advise you to carefully bite off a couple of coils of the spring with tools and the system will work properly again.

It is easy to recognize the ball switch by the presence of a brass ball with perpendicular holes inside, which is clamped between two plates, and the free rotation of the handle 360 ​​degrees. When you turn the switch, the ball takes a certain position. It blocks one of the holes, and through the second, water enters the spout or shower. The intermediate position of the lever completely blocks water access. Such a system is considered to be durable. The only thing she is afraid of is the ingress of particles of sand, lime. As a result of adhesion, deposits and rust are formed on the surface, which impede smooth shifting, and the lever begins to stick. If you do nothing, the system completely breaks down and fails. Therefore, we advise you to clean the internal fittings of the ball switch from limestone deposits at least every six months.

The ceramic cartridge is a durable check valve found in most modern faucets. But like the ball type, it is sensitive to sand particles, scale. Therefore, we recommend installing a coarse water filter in advance. If the switch handle starts to wedge, do not make sudden movements. Disassemble and clean the system. Otherwise, you will break one of the ceramic plates or the plastic retainer and the cartridge will have to be completely replaced.

Switch types

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

• spool;
• suberic;
• cartridge;
• exhaust or push-button.

The 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 valves of the crane.

The cork device is considered old, it is practically not made anymore. The liquid switching device is located in the middle. It is longer in size compared to the spool switch. The main part is a cut-out cork.During its rotation, the process of aligning the cutout with the area of ​​the water inlet and outlet holes is observed, and liquid enters the tap area.

The cartridge type of the switch is available in the mixers of Russian manufacturers. It is difficult to make this switch because it is difficult to find the necessary items for it. In the event of a breakdown of these elements, a complete replacement of the entire mixer is usually required.

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

• automatic type - used for modern cartridge-type products. Placed in the area of ​​a separate block or on the surface of a swivel spout. The unique feature of the element is that when the water is cut off, it does not change the position of the spout or returns from the position of the shower. The button performs the functions of regulation: if you take it out, the liquid will come out of the watering can, if you put it back in, then the outlet of the liquid will go to the pouring position;
• simple type - this type is used on inexpensive mixer models. But in appearance it also looks like an automatic type switch. The difference between this type of device lies in its principle of operation. 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;
• switch of the Soviet type - an element of this type can be found only on devices of the Soviet type, which are not currently produced.

Types of bath-shower switches

Zolotnikovy

It was quite common during the Soviet era and now many mixers are produced with this type of switch. Today this type is found in thin-walled valve-type mixers. The characteristic feature of a spool-type switch is a plastic or metal handle, which is placed between the valve valves.

Suberic

The plug type switch is now obsolete and rarely used in production. The handle for switching water is located in the middle and is longer than that of the spool type. The main part is considered to be a cork with a cutout. When it rotates, the cutout is aligned with the water inlet and outlet holes, and water enters the tap

It is worth noting that some modern mixers, which are made in a classic style, have a handle like a cork switch, but only a spool valve is used in the core.

Cartridge

The cartridge switch is usually found in Russian-made faucets. It is quite difficult to fix this type of switch, because it is very difficult to find spare parts or a new cartridge. In the event of a breakdown, it is better to purchase a new mixer.

Pull-out / Push-button

An exhaust or push-button switch is designed for mixing cold and hot water, which is supplied through the centralized water supply system. There are several varieties on the plumbing market:

• automatic switch
  used for cartridge mixers of famous brands. It can be in a separate block or on top of a swivel spout. The main feature of this switch is that if you turn off the water, it will remain in the "spout" position or return from the "shower" position. The button is responsible for switching: if you pull it out, then water will flow from the shower head; if you press it, switch the water supply to the "spout" position;
• simple switch
  used mainly on inexpensive mixer models. The appearance is the same as that of the automatic switch. To determine the type of a push-button switch, it is enough to pull out the button and shut off the water, if it remains in place, then this is a simple type of an exhaust switch;
• soviet switch
  for a shower can be found only in old models of Soviet mixers, which are not relevant today.

Required tool

Before proceeding with the "treatment", you will need to assemble and prepare the instrument. Surely, you will need a screwdriver or even several, pliers, keys, a knife for cutting wallpaper with a thin blade, as well as special hexagonal nozzles. This is the minimum kit needed to refurbish a faucet or shower switch in a bathroom.

Flat screwdriver

Using a flat-head screwdriver, the assemblies are disassembled (screws are unscrewed). It can also clean up minor deposits of dirt, salts, pick up a decorative plug that covers the insides of the mixer, switch.

Pliers

It is convenient to unscrew stuck bolts and hexagons with pliers. They are also used if you want to hold the part on one side, and tighten (unscrew) on the other. The corrugated notch on the jaws is firmly pressed against the surface, preventing it from slipping out.

Wallpaper knife

A special knife with a narrow retractable blade is suitable for cleaning threads, it also trims the gasket. During operation, the cutting part extends from the body and is fixed. After the end, it hides again. Such a knife is as safe as possible.

Adjustable wrench

A wrench with a variable distance between the jaws (adjustable) is convenient because it works in a wide range. The control is carried out by rotating the lamb: it is much more convenient than constantly holding keys of various standard sizes, depending on the specific size of the switch shank to be unscrewed, the bolt head.

Gas wrench

Additional gripping force is created by bringing the handles of the gas wrench together. By the principle of action, it is similar to a wrench. With a certain amount of skill, they can twist (hold) smooth, cylindrical parts. But jags will inevitably remain on their surface. Therefore, working with soft brass with an adjustable wrench is not recommended, only as a last resort!

Hexagons

In modern mixers, in addition to unified screws, with a Phillips or flat head screws, they use fasteners with a recessed hexagonal recess. For such a bolt, a specific wrench is needed, it is usually not unscrewed to unscrew it.

Step-by-step instructions for disassembling a plug switch

The plug switch is also subdivided into the following subtypes:

1. Manual. It switches the leka-gander mode only by pressing the hand;
2. Auto. After a certain time, the plug will return to the closed position;
3. Soviet. Here the plug is adjusted by a swivel mechanism. Now this design is very rare.

First you need to shut off the water in the apartment to avoid flooding or other unpleasant surprises during the renovation. After that, the decorative panel is removed from the mixer, which indicates the change in temperature during the movement of the mixer handle. There is a threaded connection under the panel. Using a screwdriver, carefully unscrew the bolt and remove the upper part of the handle.

Video: step-by-step repair of the shower switch

After that, depending on the type of locking mechanism, the sequence of actions may differ:

1. The decorative nut is removed from the mixer first. Often it is not even bolted to the base of the mixer, so you can even remove it with your hands. Experts do not recommend using an adjustable wrench to remove it, since it can damage the outer surface of the part;

Removing the decorative plate on the mixer surface

There is a fastening nut under the decorative nut. She holds the locking mechanism itself. If your valve is of a cartridge type, then due to this lock, the ceramic cartridge is held, if it is a ball valve, then a shut-off ball. Using an adjustable wrench, this nut is unscrewed from the tap;
After the switch is removed.Depending on the design, it can be cork (connected to the handle by means of a spring, when stretched, the water flow switches into the hose) and with a diffuser. At the same time, the location is possible both from the side of the mixer and from the bottom of the tap;
The switch is carefully unscrewed from the mixer using an adjustable wrench. When the mechanism rotates freely inside the mixer body, it must be carefully unscrewed from it without damaging the spring and gaskets;

Removing the switch cap

A spring or push button switch consists of a stem, a spring, a closing element and seals. To disassemble it, you need to unscrew the nut, which helps to switch the water from the spout to the "rain". The spring must be checked for both bending and flexibility - it must be mobile enough to adjust the constipation normally;

Spring type switch

After removing the thrust nut, you need to remove the plastic washer that holds the stem. It is under it that the spring is located. It is carefully removed. Do not twist or bend the part, since then it will become unusable;
After replacing or repairing the mechanism, the assembly is carried out in the reverse order.

When working with a Soviet type plug switch, first unscrew the control knob and then remove the switch.

How to disassemble the shower ball switch

Ball shut-off switches are most commonly installed in two-valve mixers. A feature of such devices is that the pressure of the water and its temperature are regulated by a ball installed in the switch. It is connected to the valve stem and valves. When the handles are rotated, the ball changes its position and sets the required jet pressure, and also switches the gander-shower spout mode.

Fully disassembled two-valve mixer with spare parts

Step-by-step instructions on how to disassemble the shower ball switch (gander - watering can):

1. The first is to remove the clamping nut at the top of the mixer, which is responsible for attaching the hose from the shower to the faucet body. It can be easily removed using a flat screwdriver or a utility knife;

The decorative plate removed on the mixer

After removing the shower and the nut, there will be a free hole in the mixer for the bushing, in which the hexagonal plate is located, which holds the locking ball. To remove the switch, you need to unscrew the fluoroplastic plate with a hexagon and pull it out. You cannot press hard, so as not to break the mount;

Bushing hole

Only after that is the handle unscrewed, with which the position of the ball is adjusted. The decorative plate is removed first. There is a bolt under it, it must be screwed in with a curly screwdriver, preferably with a stop. If the thread is difficult to untwist, then you can try to apply a small amount of oil. Excessive force should not be applied so as not to disrupt the mount;
The handle can be easily removed without keys, it is not attached to the thread (marked 1 in the photo). Please note that almost always the handle is made of silumin, which is very fragile. Therefore, if it is difficult to "move away" from the body, you do not need to beat or twist it hard;

Switch handle to be removed

There is a switch rod under the handle, it must be unscrewed like a standard thread. After that, it can be easily removed from the base and can be repaired or inspected.

When you assemble the mixer and the switch to its original position, it is recommended to screw the FUM tape onto all threaded connections, and also replace the gaskets and rings. Preventive inspection should be carried out once every six months, this will prevent the wear of the seals.

The faucet in the bathroom is a very important element due to which the main purpose of this room is provided, it is washing

Therefore, it is important that this element is in good condition and performs all its functions. Another important component of the mixer device is the shower.

For many, shower is the main method of washing in the morning and evening. But sometimes there are problems with the shower switch in the mixer. Therefore, it is important to know how to repair the shower switch in the mixer, because it depends on the type of malfunction of this device.

Features of repairing the shower switch in the mixer

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

Replacing a defective cartridge

If the bathrooms have a simple single-lever mixer, the internal cartridge may be the cause of the switch breakage. Due to this element, mixing of water currents is ensured during the working process of the device. But it is worth remembering that it cannot be restored, so if it breaks down, then it must be replaced with a new one.

The repair process consists of stages:

• the first step is to remove the plug;
• the fixing screw is unscrewed with a screwdriver;
• 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 that, the structure is assembled with special accuracy.

The slots on the shower switch turned (it just spun like a propeller), the first thought of course was to buy a new handle, but they simply were not on sale, so I decided to repair this one.

We make markings for the hole.

First, we plan with a drill for 1.5 and then drill for 2.5.

Then we take a stepped drill, and drill a hole for 6.

We mark the center on the mixer.

We drill with a drill 2.5.

And we fasten the handle.

Everything is ready, from straight angles the screw cap is not visible at all.

Thank you all, maybe someone will come in handy.

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Varieties

Modern mixers, for various reasons, differ in design features. Traditional, reliable, budget mixers are available for every taste and budget. The following types are distinguished:

• with a spool;
• suberic;
• with cartridge;
• exhaust.

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

Zolotnikovy

Citizens mainly dealt with such switches in the Soviet years, now they are practically ousted. The unit is located in the middle between the cold and hot water supply valves. It is still sometimes found in budget variants, with thin-walled cases. It is not highly reliable.

Suberic

Cork switches fall into the category of obsolete: you will not find them on new mixers. The principle of operation is based on the alignment of the cutout in the rotating assembly, the plug, with the counterpipes in the mixer. In terms of dimensions it exceeds the spool valves, it does not differ in compactness.

Cartridge

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

Exhaust

The device of a push-button or pull-off switch is no different in complexity: it acts in direct accordance with its name. When the taps are open, the button is pulled back, which is then held by the pressure of the water, and you can use the shower.When the tap is closed, the spring returns the switch rod to its original position, the shower head is turned off again.