Yes, it is a good idea to turn off the water before attempting to replace a shower diverter. This will prevent water from spraying out from the pipes as you work, which could result in potential flooding and water damage.
Shutting off the water supply is quite easy. In most cases, the water shutoff valve is situated near the wall where the faucet is installed. Generally, it takes the form of a small handle or knob. You will need to turn the handle or knob clockwise if you want to shut off the water supply.
It is also a good idea to make sure that no one uses the shower while you are working. Once the water has been shut off, you can then begin the process of replacing the shower diverter.
How do you replace a shower diverter?
Replacing a shower diverter valve can be a relatively easy task for a person who is comfortable with plumbing and has the proper tools. Here is a general outline for replacing a shower diverter valve:
1. Turn off the water supply to the shower. Make sure that the water is completely turned off before proceeding.
2. Remove the existing diverter valve from the plumbing by loosening the mounting bolts and pulling it out.
3. Obtain the correct replacement diverter valve for your shower and make necessary connections. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
4. Secure the new valve in place by tightening the mounting bolts.
5. Turn the water back on and check for leaks.
6. Test the diverter valve to make sure it is functioning properly.
If you are not comfortable with the work outlined above, please contact a professional plumber to help with the shower diverter replacement.
What is a 2 way shower diverter?
A 2 way shower diverter is a plumbing fitting that controls and directs the flow of water in a shower. It has two outlets, each of which can be individually managed and adjusted, as opposed to a single outlet shower diverter.
By adjusting the two outlets, a two way shower diverter allows for water to be directed to two different showerhead outlets at the same time, giving the user additional control over their shower. This type of fitting is often found in more modern showers and is becoming increasingly popular as it offers a more convenient and efficient shower experience.
The two outlets are normally located in the wall, either side of the showerhead, giving the user a more personalised shower experience.
What is the difference between a 2 way diverter & a 3 way diverter?
A 2 way diverter is a valve that can be used to distribute a source of water through two separate outlets. It is usually used when two items, such as a showerhead and a hand-held shower, share the same water source.
When the diverter is opened, it allows the water to flow freely through one outlet. When closed, it blocks the flow of water to that outlet and instead sends the water through the other.
Meanwhile, a 3 way diverter is a valve with three outlets and is mainly used to distribute the source of water through three separate outlets. It has the same general function as a 2 way diverter but is capable of allowing water to flow through more than two outlets at the same time.
Depending on how the diverter is opened, the water can flow through one, two or all of the outlets. This is useful in situations where three showerheads are being used at the same time.
How do two handle shower valves work?
Two handle shower valves work by controlling the flow of water and the temperature of the water. Each handle regulates a different factor—the left handle typically control the flow and the right handle controls the temperature.
When both handles are turned on, pressure is created that allows a continuous flow of water to the showerhead. By turning the handles in either direction, you can turn the water on or off and adjust the temperature of the water accordingly.
The higher the temperature of the water, the farther right you need to turn the right handle. Additionally, some models have a third handle in the middle which works as an anti-scalding device. This handle needs to be turned in order to have the right and left handles work properly.