Bathtub shower diverter

Types of Bathtub shower diverter

A bathtub shower diverter is a small valve that controls water flow. It has a single knob that directs water to either the bathtub or the shower. The diverter has three main types, as explained below.

• Tub spout diverter

  The diverter is easy to find and affordable. It is located at the front of the bathtub. The spout has a knob that is pulled up to switch the water to the shower head. The water will continue flowing to the shower head until the knob is pulled down again. The spout diverter is mostly found in guest bathrooms and older homes.

• Valve diverter

  This diverter is more advanced and located on the tub's faucet. It has a pull-up knob that switches the water to the shower. The valve diverter is more common in modern bathrooms. It provides a consistent water flow and has a more complicated installation process.

• Showerhead diverter:

  This diverter is installed on the showerhead. It has a knob or lever that can be turned to switch the water to the bathtub. The showerhead diverter is less common and mostly found in small bathrooms. It has a unique look and design.

Function and features of bathtub shower diverter

• Shower to Bathtub Diverters

  These diverters are designed to switch water flow from the bathtub faucet to the showerhead. The water will flow through the showerhead when the diverter is pulled or turned. It is ideal for taking a shower. The water will return to the tub faucet when the diverter is turned back or pushed down. This feature allows for water-saving since it is not necessary to fill the bathtub to take a shower. It is also beneficial for homes with limited bathroom space.

• Bathtub to Shower Diverters

  This diverter is specifically designed to redirect water from the showerhead to the bathtub faucet. The diverter knob is turned to switch the water flow to the bathtub. It is ideal for filling the tub quickly, as the water will flow straight to the tub. This diverter is great for users looking to enjoy a relaxing soak after a quick shower.

• Triple Switch Diverters

  These diverters come with a three-way design that allows users to enjoy both the shower and bathtub simultaneously or each function independently. The diverter is a great addition to luxury bathrooms. It is ideal for filling the tub while taking a shower. This feature is beneficial for users with mobility issues. It also allows for an invigorating shower while relaxing in the tub.

• Wall-Mounted Diverters

  These diverters are installed on the wall and have a separate control for the shower and bathtub. It is a great addition to modern bathrooms. The diverter allows for individual or simultaneous use of the shower and bathtub. It is suitable for luxury bathroom setups. This diverter allows for mobility-challenged individuals to enjoy the convenience of showering and bathing together.

• Mounted Diverters

  This diverter is mounted directly on the bathtub faucet. It usually has a pull or turn mechanism. The diverter is easy to install and provides a cost-effective solution. It allows for the quick and easy conversion of bathtub to shower. It is great for small bathrooms. This feature is convenient for quick showers without filling the tub.

Scenarios of Bathtub shower diverter

There are various application scenarios for a bathtub shower diverter, including:

• Combined Bathtub and Shower

  The combined bathtub and shower diverter is a common scenario where the diverter is used to switch water flow between the bathtub and the showerhead. Usually, the diverter is a pull-up lever on the tub spout or a switch on the shower faucet. This setup offers flexibility, allowing users to take quick showers or relaxing baths.

• Remodeling Projects

  Diverters are often installed during remodeling projects to upgrade an old bathtub or shower system. The diverter provides a modern and convenient way to use the bathtub and shower. When choosing a diverter for remodeling, it is important to consider factors like ease of use, reliability, and compatibility with existing plumbing.

• Space-Saving Bathroom Designs

  The diverter is a great solution for space-saving bathroom designs, especially in small apartments or guest suites. The combined bathtub and shower saves space and offers two functionalities. The diverter allows users to switch between the two without taking up additional space.

• Accessibility Solutions

  Accessibility solutions incorporate diverters in their bathtubs and showers to make them easy to use for people with disabilities or limited mobility. The diverters are usually placed at a wheelchair-accessible height. They have easy-to-use controls that enable users to switch water flow without assistance.

• Family Bathrooms

  In family bathrooms, diverters offer a versatile bathing solution for both adults and children. Parents can use the shower for quick morning routines while children enjoy bathing in the tub. The diverters are easy to use, making them suitable for children and elderly people.

• Relaxation Features

  Some bathtubs and showers are fitted with diverters that have relaxation features. For instance, an air jetted tub has a diverter that produces relaxing bubbles, and a shower may have massage jets or a rain showerhead. These relaxation features transform the bathroom into a spa-like experience.

• Water-Saving Solutions

  Diverters are used in water-saving solutions to conserve water during baths and showers. They are installed on low-flow showerheads and tub spouts that use less water without compromising performance. Users can save water when taking showers if they remember to switch off the bathtub.

How to Choose Bathtub Shower Diverter

Choosing the right diverter for a bathtub involves consideration of several factors. These are some of them.

• Consider the Type of Diverter

  Depending on the installation process, it is important to choose a diverter type. The shower diverter valve for tub can be used to switch water flow to the shower head or the tub. A three-valve diverter has separate controls for hot water, cold water, and the diverter. This design allows for more precise water temperature control. A two-valve diverter combines the tub spout and the diverter valve into one control. This configuration is simpler but offers less temperature control precision. Knowing the type helps in choosing the diverter that fits the existing plumbing system.

• Material and Durability

  The material used in making diverter valves affects their longevity and performance. Brass and chrome-plated brass are popular choices due to their strength and resistance to corrosion. Stainless steel diverter valves are also strong and resistant to rust. They are suitable for use in areas with hard water. Plastic valves are lightweight and resistant to corrosion. They are usually used in budget-friendly plumbing setups. It is important to consider the material of the diverter valve in order to ensure its longevity.

• Water Flow Rate

  The water flow rate of the diverter shows how quickly it can supply water to the tub and shower. This rate is measured in gallons per minute (GPM). A higher flow rate means the tub or shower fills up faster. A diverter with a high flow rate is good for meeting the needs of people with high water demand. For instance, those who have large shower heads or jetted tubs. When purchasing a diverter, it is important to check the flow rate. This ensures that the diverter is capable of meeting the needs of the homeowner.

• Compatibility

  It is important to consider the compatibility of the diverter with the existing plumbing setup. This ensures a smooth installation process. Different diverters have different installation techniques. For instance, some diverters are installed on the wall, while others on the tub deck. It is also important to consider the size of the pipes. Ensure that the diverter chosen is compatible with the size of the existing plumbing pipes.

bathtub shower diverter Q&A

Q1: What are the signs that my diverter needs to be replaced?

A1: Water leakage from the diverter or a constant drip, as well as difficulty in switching water from the tub to the shower, are signs that the diverter should be replaced.

Q2: What are the signs of a leaky diverter?

A2: The signs of a leaky diverter include water running continuously from the shower head or water dripping from the shower head when the shower is turned off.

Q3: What are the signs that a shower diverter valve is bad?

A3: If the shower only produces lukewarm water or no water at all, this indicates that the diverter valve is defective. When the diverter is switched to the shower mode, this should only send water to the shower head and not the tub faucet.

Q4: Do diverter valves control temperature?

A4: No, diverter valves do not control temperature. They are used to divert water between the tub spout and the showerhead. The pressure balance valve is responsible for controlling water temperature.

Q5: Can a shower diverter be repaired?

A5: Yes, a shower diverter can be repaired. The process involves identifying the problem and replacing any faulty parts. A professional plumber can handle the repair process, which is less costly than replacing the diverter.