Tub & Shower Valve Installation & Repair

Tub Shower Valve

Tub and Shower Valves - Importance and Types

Shower/tub valves are an important part of the plumbing system in any house. These valves regulate the temperature as well as the flow of water coming from shower heads and tub spouts. Many municipalities have made it mandatory for domestic plumbing systems to install tub/shower valves to prevent water temperature fluctuations.

The need for tub/shower valves

Various reasons can cause pressure fluctuations in cold/hot water supply. For instance, the flushing of a toilet can cause pressure fluctuation in the cold water supply of a shower. A flush tends to pull cold water towards refilling tank, which can cause a drop in cold water pressure in the other open valve, i.e. the shower. This can result in the shower providing very hot water that can even cause scalding. On the contrary, if someone opens a hot water valve, the shower may provide ice cold water.

Tub/shower valves have pistons, which react to cold/hot water pressure changes and compensate for them. The valves contain ball bearings that help them regulate forces. The valves can ensure constant water temperature within a small Fahrenheit range. This is essential to prevent injury, especially to sensitive or elderly individuals.

Types of tub/shower valves

The valves are usually located behind fiberglass or tiles in showers/tubs. They are controlled by handles present in showers/tubs. Based on the number of handles, the shower/tub valve setups are of three types: single, double or triple handle.

Single handle shower/tub valves are the simplest and the most popular variety. They can have ceramic, brass or plastic cartridges. The cartridges have many holes at back, which enable the mixing of hot and cold water.  Valves regulate the temperature as well as the flow of water. They are either left-right turn type or pull-push type. Having a simple design and functionality, these are much more durable and less problematic compared to other types. Often only the cartridges, rather than the whole valves, need to be replaced after long-term use. 

Three handle valves, although less common now, can still be found in many homes. These have three handles, two of which control the flow of hot and cold water, while the middle one diverts water to either shower head or tub spout as desired. These valves include screw in-out components called stems. The stems contain washers, which need replacement every few years. Two handle valves function similar to three handle ones, but they offer only shower head control. Tub/shower valves are an essential part of the plumbing system and proper installation by experts can ensure that they provide trouble free service for many years.