In this article, we will dive into the world of different types of shower valves. We’ve used showers all our lives and you may have come across some of them yourself! So let’s keep reading to see which of these cool types you’ve seen before and which ones are new to you. Are you ready to enjoy it? Then go ahead!
How do I know what kind of shower valve I have?
Your shower faucet and shower valve go hand in hand, so it’s essential to correctly determine the kind of valve and faucet you possess before fixing your shower system. While the best way to determine your shower valve type is to talk to a plumber, the next actions may provide you with hints and indications as to what type of shower valve you currently have.
1. Count the number of shower faucet handles.
Often the type of shower faucet and handles indicate which shower valve is behind it.
Zero knobs could mean a shower with buttons to control the flow and temperature of the water flow.
A single-handle shower controls flow and temperature with the unmarried handle, which stands as the numerous expected and comfortable usefulness alternatives.
A dual-handle faucet controls hot and cold water flow through each handle.
The 3-handle faucet controls both hot and cold water, while the diverter valve knob switches the water flow between the shower head, other shower heads, or the bathtub.
2. Determine how the shower faucet is connected
The installed shower head or fixed shower faucet heads are directly connected to the shower pipe in the wall. This is a stationary shower where you may or may not adjust the angle of the water flow.
A hand shower or hand shower head has a hose that runs from the shower heads to the shower pipe behind the faucet handle. They provide more flexibility in terms of being able to move the shower heads.
3. Identify the manufacturer
To determine the manufacturer of your valve, stem the center of the trim plate for the emblem or note meaning who made it: K for Kohler, M for Moen, although some labels include their complete title.
Also, some valves per trademark may need a certain finish, so it exists great to check the manufacturer and the kind of faucet you own want.
4. Check the shower cartridge.
You can determine the manufacturer of your shower valve by removing and checking the cartridge for a brand name.
Don’t try to mix and match with manufacturers when it comes to shower faucets and valve parts. Types and sizes of faucets and valves of different brands are not interchangeable.
What are the different types of shower valves?
Using a shower faucet design to identify a shower valve is not always accurate. You need to remove the shower faucet to access the shower valve inside it. So what are shower valve types.
Shower valve types. Shower mixing valve
Mixing shower valves are one of the older types of shower valves, and are designed to mix water from hot and cold taps before it enters the shower head.
Shower faucet valves are often found in older buildings and do not handle abrupt changes in the water pressure balancing valve. You can get burned if, for example, the cold water pressure drops when someone turns on a nearby faucet or flushes a toilet. This can be avoided by setting the hot water thermostat to a maximum temperature of 120 °F.
Shower valve types. Thermostatic valves
Thermostatic shower valves regulate the temperature and pressure of the water leaving the shower. The thermostatic valves (TS) have a temperature sensing element that regulates the flow of both hot and cold water depending on temperature changes.
You set the temperature of the water and the valve maintains it regardless of changes in the incoming hot and cold water. The thermostatic shower valve is one of the most expensive shower valves given its features.
Shower valve types. Shower diverter valve
Diverter valves control the flow of water to multiple outlets such as bath spouts, hand shower heads, etc. at the same time. With diverter valves, you can use more than one outlet at the same time, for example, both fixed and hand shower heads or shower heads with a faucet.
Shower valve types. Pressure balancing valves
The pressure balancing valves automatically suspend the water pressure in the cold and hot tubes within 2-3 °F of the set temperature.
Pressure equalizing also called pressure shower, mechanical, or anti-scald valves, are the numerous standard and practical shower valves. This stands as one of the finest shower temperature control valves given how accurate it is at controlling temperature.
Pressure balancing valves operate by means of a series of diaphragms or pistons that move to equalize water strain from cold and hot water pressure. They usually have one knob that changes the water temperature when turned right or left.
Shower valve types. Shower diverter valve
Shower bypass valves direct the water from the faucet into the bathtub to the showerhead, allowing you to install both shower and bathtub in the same place.
The main types of showers are as follows:
- Tee outlet: Uses a pull lever where water flows in the faucet and once a favorable temperature is reached, the lever is pulled to block the faucet, thereby directing the water into the shower.
- Dual Valve Diverter: Uses a rotary regulator for hot and cold water, with a second regulator to divert water between the tub and shower.
- Three Valve Diverter: Uses three handles, two for cold and hot water, and a third for diverting water between the tub and shower.
Knowing your shower valve type helps in easy repairs and replacements. You can distinguish most of these shower valves from the types of shower handles you have in your home.
Shower valve care
How to make your valve last?
Shower faucets produced by tasked manufacturers are designed for very long service life. To regularly keep them in perfect shape. A regularly operated shower is slightly possible to run wrong as fast as an infrequently utilized one.
If you are renovating or substituting your water heater, installing a water conditioner will also extend the life of your shower valves explained by cushioning the water that gives via them, so scale and hard water will build up less.
You may also be interested in: How to define a standard tub spout height above the tub?
When to replace the shower cartridge?
Both mixing valves and pressure balancing (PB) valve have internal cartridges that can wear out over time. In PB valves, the spool inside the cartridge can also begin to stick due to the accumulation of hard water and scale.
One indication that you need to substitute your PB valve cartridge is that you reach mainly hot or cold water, which is an indication that the mixing tool is not functioning correctly. Another indication that the cartridge is bad exists when the water arrests rushing.
Thermostatic valve cartridges may also need to be replaced after a while.
Due to their structure, TS valves are inclined to the accumulation of debris or dirt in the check valves that control the flow of water from hot and cold water faucets. If the water temperature or volume is uneven or imbalanced, check and clean the check valves according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If this does not help, replace the cartridge.
Keep the plant instructions, so you still understand where to find troubleshooting information.
Read also about Shower making loud humming noise: reasons and methods to get rid of it.
How to remove the shower faucet handle?
In order to access the shower valve, the handle of the shower faucet must be removed as follows:
1. Turn off the water supply
Locate the mains shutoff valve, then turn off the water before working on the shower valve.
2. Remove the tap handle
Use a screwdriver set (or hex wrenches) to remove the handle. For single-lever handles, locate the mounting washer in the handle, then use a hex wrench to unscrew it. For crystal handles, remove the plastic cover with a flathead screwdriver, then unscrew the handle with a screwdriver.
3. Remove the handle
Once the screw is out, remove the shower faucet from the wall to expose the shower valve. You can then use the guide above to determine your shower valve type.
What is the difference between a shower faucet and a shower diverter?
A shower diverter is a device that allows you to divert water from your shower head to another fixture, such as a hand shower or bath filler. This can be useful if you want to use the shower for more than one purpose. However, diverter valves can be more difficult to install than other shower valves.
What type of shower valve is best for you?
The best type of shower valve for you depends on your needs and preferences. If you need a thermostatic valve that is easy to install, a universal shower valve may be your best bet. If you need precise control over your water temperature, a thermostatic shower valve might be the best option. A flow control shower valve may be the best option if you have low water pressure.
How do shower valves work?
Shower valves work by controlling the flow of water through a pipe. Most valves have a handle used to open or close the thermostatic valve, which contains the amount of water flowing through the line. Some valves also have a mechanism that allows you to adjust the pressure or temperature of the water.
How long does a shower faucet last?
A shower faucet can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. However, it is important to note that all valves will eventually need to be replaced. If you have a hidden valve, it may be more difficult to replace than an open valve.
What are the most common shower faucet problems?
The most common problems with shower valves are leaks and damage. If you notice a leak, the valve must be repaired or replaced as soon as possible. If the valve is damaged, it may need to be replaced.
Read also Shower won’t stop running: Do away with it!
What is a mixing valve in a shower?
These types of shower pressure valves are the successors of pressure valves and thermostatic shower valve. These are those old valves that consisted of two separate valves that could be turned to regulate cold and hot water to regulate the pressure and temperature of the water.
They were used in the old days and are not popular these days. Mixing valves were also among the cheapest types of shower valve on the market and were suitable for those who were building a house on a budget.
Conclusion
The numerous standard finishes are brushed nickel and chrome, while you can locate valves with different finishes such as brass and oiled bronze.
When selecting a finish, it is important that the finish of the valve matches the finish of your different fixtures. For instance, if your faucet is chrome and shower head, you should opt for a chrome shower valve. The right finish for your spout’s intention gives your bathroom a cohesive glance.
Are all shower valves compatible?
No, shower valves are not all compatible. They come in different types and sizes, and are designed to work with specific plumbing systems and shower fixtures. It’s important to match the valve with the type of shower system you have, and to ensure that the valve is compatible with the type of showerhead and other fixtures you plan to use.
Where do i find my shower model number?
The model number for a shower can typically be found on a label or tag located on the shower unit itself, often on the inside of the shower door or on the back of the showerhead. If the label is not easily visible, it may be located on the manufacturer’s website or in the instruction manual that came with the shower.
Can you replace shower valve without removing tile?
It is possible, but it can be more difficult and time-consuming than if the tile was removed. The installation process may involve cutting a hole in the tile to access the valve, and then patching the hole with a new piece of tile or a patch kit after the valve has been replaced. It is recommended to hire a professional plumber to do this job.