What Are Shower Diverters And Why Should You Have A Plumbing Company Install One | Newark, IL
Only a few things in this life can be as relaxing as having a hot, nice shower. This is why homeowners go the extra mile to purchase and install water heaters at their homes and ensure they are serviced. But have you ever wondered how water makes its way from the water heater to the showerhead? That happens thanks to a shower diverter, a particularly uncommon plumbing component. Knowing how the shower diverter is more than just fun trivia. It could help you identify the signs. It is time to call a plumbing company in Newark, IL for repair before its malfunctioning impacts your showers. This article will educate you on this plumbing component.
What Is a Shower Diverter?
So, are you asking yourself this question? It is a device or valve that diverts water flow to the showerhead or your bathtub. Do you have a combo shower and a bathtub? You might have noticed that the handle of your faucet has a way of adjusting the water flow from the showerhead to the tub spout. Turning the faucet handle means activating the diverter valve. If this component is damaged, you could have a problem redirecting the water flow, prompting you to call a plumbing company for repair or replacement.
How Do Shower Diverters Work?
It is commonly said that the first step towards knowing that an appliance has a problem is to know how it works when in perfect condition. The same can be said about your shower diverter valve. To begin with, you should know that a water pipe sends water to the tub faucet. However, you might need to learn that this pipe extends to the showerhead. Whenever the shower diverter valve is turned, it diverts the water to your showerhead. In contrast, closing the diverter valves makes the water flow to the tub spout. If this doesn’t happen when you turn the handle, your diverter could have a problem. Enlist a plumbing company in Newark, IL for an inspection and subsequent repair.
Types of Shower Diverter Valves
Two-Valve Diverter
These water diverters are usually installed for homes with single-handle faucets. The larger handle in this assembly controls the water temperatures, while the smaller one controls the directional flow of water.
Three-Valve Diverter
Are there separate knobs for the cold and hot water in your plumbing? Then you most likely have a three-valve diverter. After you determine the right combination of cold and hot water, turn the faucet handle clockwise, sending water to your showerhead. After you’re done, you’ll turn the same handle opposite to close the water flow into the showerhead. However, issues arise to prevent the closing of the water, meaning that the shower doesn’t close. Are you experiencing such? Have the valve inspected by a reliable plumbing company near you.
Single-Valve Diverter
Also called a T-diverter, this is among the most common water diverters. Do you have handles that pull straight up from your tub faucet? Then you likely have this type of diverter. Whenever you push your handle down, it will open the water flow from into the bathtub spout.
Common Problems with Shower Diverter Valves
The shower diverters will wear out from frequent use, particularly rubber washers. If this happens, you might notice changes or leaks in your shower. Common signs that you need to call a plumbing company to inspect and fix or replace the shower diverter include leaks below your bathtub, reduced showerhead pressure, difficulty switching water from the showerhead to the tub, and vice versa.
Signs You Need to Change Your Showerhead
Knowing when to call a plumbing company to replace the showerhead is critical. Below are the signs to watch out for:
Low Water Flow
Have you noticed that the pressure of the water flowing from the shower head has recently reduced? That could mean that your showerhead has a problem or you have low water pressure issues at your home. The main showerhead issues that result in low water pressure are those related to leaks, such as worn-out rubber or plastic parts. Hence, you should hire a plumbing company for a deeper look.
Leaks and Drips
Are you constantly dealing with leaks and water drips from the showerhead? Do you see water pooling on the floor or your bathroom while nobody uses it? It might be time to have a plumbing company in Newark, IL replace it. The professional will determine the cause of the leak, and if it’s because of high pressure, they will fix it first.
Surface Staining
Have you noticed that there is staining or discoloration on your showerhead? That is usually caused by corrosion or mineral accumulation on the showerhead. While these may be washed or peeled off, at times, the deposition of minerals is so protracted that the professional might recommend replacing the fixture. This is common in homes that receive hard water.
Shower Diverter Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Benefits of Installing a Shower Diverter?
There are several benefits of having a plumbing company install a shower diverter in your bathroom. To begin with, it allows homeowners to choose between using a handheld shower or a showerhead based on their needs. It can also help you conserve water by simultaneously sending water to a single fixture. Further, a diverter can help reduce water utility bills by preventing water from flowing simultaneously to both fixtures.
Does Installing a Shower Diverter Have Any Drawbacks?
Although there are several advantages to installing a shower diverter, there are potential drawbacks. To begin with, if the professional doesn’t install a diverter properly, it could result in leaks. Additionally, if it becomes clogged, it could block or reduce water flow to the fixtures. Finally, homes with multiple showers require separate diverter valves.
Do you want a shower diverter installed in your bathroom? Are you experiencing any showerhead issues? Contact us at Just In Time for any plumbing service.
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