Do you intend to remodel or build a shower? Shower valves are essential. It can be difficult to choose from the many shower valves that are available.
One, there are many types of shower valves. Each made by different manufacturers with different benefits.
Shower valves can be described as the heart of a shower. They regulate the temperature and flow of water to body sprays and tub spouts as well as the shower head. You can have the shower you desire and it won't cause plumbing problems in the future by choosing the right shower valve kit.
Different types of shower valves described
There are three types available: a pressure-balancing, thermostatic and diverter. This section will help to choose the best shower valve for you.
Pressure Balancing Shower Valve
Did you ever flush a toilet in the shower while someone else was using it? Then, were you yelled at and criticized for burning them with hot tap water?
This is because the pressure balancer on your shower valve was not available. Depending on your age, they may not have been available at the time. It is plumbing code now to have pressure balance within your home. It is one of the most essential types for shower valves.
Cold water was dragged from the shower to use the toilet. The water level dropped while the hot water was kept at the same level. Pressure balancing shower valves sense pressure differences between hot and cold lines and can close one side to maintain constant water temperature.
These valves need to be maintained more frequently because the cartridge that balances pressure has an inner spool. The scale and mineral deposits can cause the spool to become blocked. This can cause the valve not to produce consistent water temperatures until it is replaced with a pressure balance cartridge. The small price is well worth it.
Pressure balancing valves are notorious for not being able to regulate water volume. Your shower will turn on at full pressure and the lowest temperature when it turns on. There are certain valves that can provide volume control or temperature memory, but you need to know what to look for.
When choosing from the various types of shower valves, you need to determine how many showerheads you will be using. Pressure balancing valves can accommodate one to two shower heads because they have 1/2"-sized water inlets. For larger showers with more shower heads and body sprays, you will need a different valve.
Thermostatic Shower Valve
Thermostatic shower valves function in the same way as pressure balancing valves. They maintain constant water temperatures regardless of how other appliances use water.
What is the function of a thermostatic shower valve? The spool is used to regulate pressure changes. A pressure balancing valve works by using a spool. The thermostatic shower valves, however, use a thermostat for temperature control.
This allows you to control the water temperature more precisely as well as to control the temperature to within a degree. Pressure balancing valves require you to use your hands to adjust water temperature.
Once you have set the temperature, it will not be necessary to change it again. The thermostatic shower valves have a dial that controls the temperature, as well as the water volume. Most pressure balancing valves will lose their temperature "memory" when the water is turned off.
This makes thermostatic valves the best type of shower valve to use with large showers that have multiple sprays or shower heads. They usually have at least 3/4 inch water inlets, which allows for greater water flow to various devices.
Diverter Shower Valve
Diverter shower valves redirect water flow between multiple showerheads. You can skip the diverter valve if you are only using one showerhead.
You can also use diverter valves in conjunction with the main rough-in. The diverters will be located above the main shower valve. They have their own control. Because you can only use one diverter valve to balance pressure, you will only need one. Multiple diverters are possible to control body sprays or shower heads with thermostatic valves. Each shower head, or spray in thermostatic valves requires a diverter.
When shopping for diverter valves, be sure to look for 3-way diverter and 2-way diverter shower valves. A 2-way valve lets you divert water between two showerheads. A 3-way valve can run water to three showerheads at once, or it can be used to separate them. I prefer the 3-way valve. For thermostatic shower valves, you will usually need one diverter.
Is it really necessary to use a shower valve?
This is the most important question to ask before you waste too much time looking at different types of shower valves. It is important to make sure you get the right shower valves for your particular project. Two situations are where you might not normally need to.
The plumber intends to keep the same valve in its place. You should make sure that the valve does NOT have a pressure-balancing function.
The valve will be installed by the plumber. Some plumbers are more comfortable installing valves without consulting you. Although the best plumbers will tell this to you, we don't assume anything. You can order the compatible trim if you are comfortable with this.
Types and Connections for Shower Valve
You should know that there are many connections available for shower valve installation.
CC
Copper connection (CC) means that the plumber must solder copper pipe directly into the valve.
IPS
Iron Pipe Straight (IPS) connections are threaded connections which attach to the valve. Before soldering copper pipes into adapters, the plumber will attach an adapter.
PEX
PEX tubing, a flexible plastic tube, is stronger than copper. It's also corrosion-resistant and can be installed easily (no soldering).
When looking at different types of shower valves, there are many other things you should consider.
Many Valve Ports
Are you looking to install a combination shower/tub or a walk in tub? There are three- and four-port shower valves. A three-port valve will have one hot and one cold port, along with one that connects to the showerhead. A four-port valve will have a port that connects to the tub spout.
Check/Service Stops
Service stops for a shower valve are optional but essential, especially if you live at an apartment or condo.
Turn off the water supply and fix the valve yourself. If you live in an apartment complex, this could pose a problem. To fix the valve, turn off the water supply to your entire building. These check points can be used even if you live alone.
These are well-worth the additional expense of an upgrade. These upgrades can make the difference between getting your valve fixed in an hour or taking several days.
These are the top mistakes in trim kit and shower valve design
All trims may not have valves
There are many trim kits available for showers. You don't have to assume that you will receive a trim when you buy a valve.
Accessories are not available in all trims
These accessories are also necessary for your shower remodel.
Showerhead
Shower Arm and Flange
Tub Spout (If you have one in your tub/shower)
Additional items, such as body sprays and slide bars, may be desired. These items are not usually included in the sets. It is often cheaper to purchase all components in one set. This helps to avoid compatibility issues. You have fewer options if you purchase a complete set.
Valve-Trim Compatibility
Any type of shower trim cannot be used with any type of valve. Trim is the decorative handle and escutcheon that you attach to the valve. Trims and shower valves work in the same way as a car.
Find the best shower valve types for your project
To help you make your shower an unforgettable experience, we have compiled a list with the best shower valves, diverter and trims.
Ask your plumber for any suggestions or questions you may have about the best trimmer kit.
