Replacing a Bathroom Valve can be a challenging project, especially for first-timers. Thankfully, changing faucets is far easier than replacing a valve. Just make sure you research the brand of the valve you are replacing. You'll also need to make sure the new faucet you install works with the existing valve. Listed below are steps for replacing a Bathroom Valve. Using the right tools and following manufacturer guidelines will make the process as simple as possible.
Shower Valves - These are a common problem in multi-family apartment complexes, condominiums, and duplexes. A leaky shower in a large apartment complex will result in a scalding shower. If you're not able to fix the problem yourself, you may need the services of a plumber. However, this may not be a good option in most cases. In that case, you may want to call the manufacturer of the valve to see if they offer a replacement part.
Diverter Valves - If your faucet is leaking, the diverter valve is probably the culprit. It allows water to divert between your showerhead and your bathtub faucet. Despite its simplicity, diverters can develop malfunctions and need replacement. Best Plumbing can help you understand all the options available for a shower diverter valve. When this happens, the water will pour out of your lower bathtub spout. Most likely, this is a failure of the inner stopper, which does not fully block the flow of water. Diverters also suffer from worn rubber stoppers, which can accumulate calcium deposits due to hard water or age.
A rough-in valve is an integral part of a shower. While many people are unaware of its importance, it serves a vital purpose. It mixes cold and hot water, and has 4 ports. In most cases, this valve has two inlets and two outlets - one for the tub spout, and one for the showerhead. If you're installing a shower-only faucet, the rough-in valve is plugged.
Where Should You Install a Shower Shut-Off Valve? A bathroom shut-off valve is usually located behind the access panel for the shower plumbing tree. An access panel is another great way to gain access to the valve. Many bathroom remodeling projects involve building an access panel to the shower shut-off valve. If you're planning on replacing your bathroom's water supply valve, consider putting it in a convenient location such as a basement or crawl space.
There are several types of shower valves available. You can select a pressure-balancing or flow-control valve. Some shower valves are designed to allow you to control the temperature of water in different parts of the shower. A pressure-balancing valve, for example, is ideal for preventing scalding, and a thermostatic valve offers an anti-scald seal. A pressure-balancing valve can be installed in a bathroom that's both comfortable and up to code.
While there are many options for shower valves, it is important to select one that offers the best level of functionality. One of the biggest red flags for replacing a shower valve is a slow reaction time. You might notice a sudden difference in temperature or water pressure while taking a shower. To avoid this, you may need to replace your entire shower. Generally, this will cost you about $40. So make sure to buy a new shower valve if you're not satisfied with your current one.