Leak started after city outage

Tub spout leak that began after a city water outage or service work.

Quick Answer:

After a city water outage, loose sediment can shift in the pipes and lodge in the tub spout diverter or valve. First flush nearby faucets to clear grit, then remove and rinse the spout/diverter cavity if you can access it, and retest the shower. If the leak continues or you see corrosion or hidden damage, call a plumber.

Why This Happens

When a municipal system shuts down or pressure drops, sediment and small mineral particles that had settled in the mains can be stirred up. When service returns, that grit travels into branch lines and fixtures. A tub spout diverter or the cartridge behind the valve can trap those particles, preventing a tight seal and letting water leak from the spout during a shower.

Step-by-Step What to Do

1. Flush nearby faucets for sediment

  • Open cold and hot faucets closest to the incoming water (outdoor hose bib, laundry sink, bathroom sink) and let them run for several minutes until the water runs clear.
  • Start with lower-pressure fixtures first, then move to higher ones. This clears loose grit before it reaches the tub valve.
  • Catch any excess water with a bucket or towel if you’re concerned about soiling floors or finishes.

2. Remove and rinse the spout/diverter cavity if accessible

  • Turn the shower off. If you’re unsure what to do, stop and call a pro rather than forcing parts.
  • If the tub spout is a removable type, support it, loosen the retaining screw or twist-off the spout per its style, and pull it straight off. Have a towel and small container to catch water and debris.
  • Inspect the diverter area and rinse any visible grit with clean water. Use a soft cloth or an old toothbrush to remove stubborn particles—don’t use aggressive scraping that could nick metal or seals.
  • Reinstall the spout carefully, ensuring it seats properly.

3. Retest diversion

  • Run the shower and watch the tub spout while switching the diverter several times. The flow should divert fully without a steady stream from the spout.
  • If the leak is much reduced or gone, the flushing and rinsing fixed the problem. If there’s still a steady leak, the valve cartridge or diverter seal may be damaged or clogged deeper in the valve body.

What Not to Do

  • Don’t keep cycling the diverter repeatedly right after an outage without first flushing nearby faucets—grit can be forced deeper and score seals, making the leak worse.
  • Don’t jam tools or metal picks into seals to try to scrape out grit; that can damage seats and O-rings.
  • Don’t rely on temporary sealants as a long-term fix if the diverter or cartridge is damaged—replace the worn part or call a professional.
  • If the issue persists after basic flushing and rinsing, a plumber is the appropriate next step rather than continued DIY attempts that could cause more damage.

When to Call a Professional

  • If flushing and rinsing do not stop the leak or if you see water damage behind finishes, contact a plumber.
  • If you cannot remove the spout without risking damage, or if the valve cartridge looks corroded or stuck, a pro can handle the replacement safely.
  • If the problem follows a winter shutdown or you suspect frozen/ruptured lines, see Leak after winterization for related issues and get professional help if pipes or hidden fittings are involved.
  • If you suspect the leak is inside the wall rather than from the spout itself, check guidance on Tub spout leaks behind wall and involve a plumber to avoid hidden water damage.

Safety Notes

  • Avoid working on plumbing when electrical appliances nearby are plugged in or wet. Shut off power to affected areas if needed.
  • If you need to shut off water at a local valve or the main, know where the shutoff is and how it operates; turn valves slowly to avoid pressure spikes.
  • Wear eye protection when flushing or rinsing debris and use towels to protect finishes from splashes.
  • If you smell gas, see significant flooding, or discover major corrosion, stop and call a professional immediately.

Common Homeowner Questions

  • Q: Will running the shower clear sediment on its own?
    A: Running the shower helps move sediment, but you should flush nearby faucets first and inspect the spout/diverter if leaking continues.
  • Q: Can I replace the cartridge myself?
    A: If you’re comfortable with basic plumbing and have the right replacement part, yes; otherwise call a plumber to avoid damaging the valve body.
  • Q: How long after an outage should I expect problems?
    A: Issues usually show immediately after service returns; clearing lines and rinsing the spout typically resolves them within a short troubleshooting session.

For more related articles, see the Tub Spout Leaks When Shower Is On hub.

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