How to Install a 3 Way Shower Diverter: Step-by-Step Guide.

To install a 3-way shower diverter valve, first, turn off the water supply and remove the old showerhead. Then, attach the diverter valve to the existing shower arm and connect the showerhead and handheld shower to the other openings on the device.

Upgrading your shower system can provide you a whole new level of comfort and convenience. If you like to have options and flexibility while taking a shower, the installation of a 3-way shower diverter valve can be ideal for you.

A shower diverter valve will allow you to divert the water flow from the showerhead to a handheld shower and back. This means you can choose between a regular shower and a handheld shower, or use them both at the same time. In this article, you will learn how to install a 3-way shower diverter valve step by step, ensuring a successful installation and an enjoyable showering experience.

Credit: m.youtube.com

Tools And Materials Required

Installing a 3-way shower diverter valve may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and materials, it can be done with relative ease. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you with the installation process.

To install a 3-way shower diverter valve, you will need the following tools and materials:

Adjustable Wrench

An adjustable wrench will help you to remove and tighten pipes and fittings. It is an essential tool for any plumbing project.

Screwdriver

A screwdriver will be necessary for removing screws and other fasteners during the installation process.

Plumber’S Tape

Plumber’s tape or teflon tape is used to wrap around pipe threads to form a tight seal. This helps prevent leaks.

Pipe Cutter

A pipe cutter is used to cut pipes to the correct length. It makes clean, precise cuts, making it an essential tool for any plumbing project.

3-Way Shower Diverter Valve

A 3-way shower diverter valve is the main component of this project. It is what directs the water flow from the showerhead to the handheld showerhead and back.

Piping

You will need piping to carry water from the shower diverter valve to the showerhead and handheld showerhead. Make sure to get piping that matches the specifications of your existing plumbing.

Threaded Adapters

Threaded adapters are used to connect different types of piping. Make sure to get the right size and type of threaded adapters to fit your piping.

With all the tools and materials at your disposal, you’re now ready to begin the installation process.

Pre-Installation Preparation

Turning Off The Water Supply

Before starting the installation process, the first step is to turn off the water supply. It is crucial to avoid water wastage or any accidental water leakage while removing the old shower diverter. Follow the simple steps below to turn off the water supply:

• Locate the main water valve of your home and turn it off. If you cannot locate the valve, check the house plan or consult with a plumber.
• Turn on the shower, faucet, or any other water outlet to check if the water supply is off. If the water stops, you’re good to go.

Removing The Old Shower Diverter

Now that you have turned off the water supply let’s move on to the next step, which is removing the old shower diverter. It is essential to remove the old one to have a smooth installation process. Follow the simple steps below:

• Use pliers or a wrench to loosen the diverter nut, which is located below the handle.
• Once the nut is loose, take it out and take off the handle.
• Now you can access the diverter valve, which is usually screwed in or held in place with a clip. If it’s screwed in, use a wrench; if it’s held in place with a clip, use pliers to take it out.

Cleaning The Pipes

With the old shower diverter removed, it’s time to clean the pipes. Cleaning the pipes is crucial to prevent any debris or residue from clogging your new shower diverter. Follow the simple steps below:

• Use a pipe cleaner or any clean cloth to clean the pipes.
• Check for any hair or dried up soap residue when cleaning.

Preparing The Piping

The final step before installing the shower diverter is preparing the pipes. Follow the steps below to prepare the piping:

• Wrap underneath the threads of the new shower diverter with plumber’s tape. Do not wrap it too tightly; it should wrap around twice.
• Now insert the new shower diverter into the pipe and tighten it firmly with a wrench.
• Attach the handle to the new shower diverter and firmly tighten the nut.

Congratulations! You have successfully installed your new shower diverter. Turn on the water supply and test it by switching between showerheads. If water flows correctly without any leakage, you’re all set to enjoy your new shower diverter.

Installing The 3 Way Shower Diverter

Connecting the piping:

The first step in installing a 3-way shower diverter is connecting the pipes. Identify the hot and cold water pipes and connect them appropriately to the diverter valve. Ensure that the pipes are connected correctly and tightly to avoid any leaks.

Attaching the 3-way shower diverter valve:

After successfully connecting the piping, the next step is to attach the 3-way shower diverter valve to the showerhead. Ensure you connect the valve correctly, as it plays a crucial role in controlling the water flow.

Tightening the connections:

Now that you’ve attached the diverter valve, the next step is to tighten the connections. Using a wrench, tighten all the connections to ensure they’re all secure and there are no leaks. Make sure you don’t over tighten the connections as this could cause damage to the plumbing.

Testing the installation:

The final step is to test the installation to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Turn on the shower and test all three settings; the showerhead only, the handheld showerhead only and both showerheads on together. Ensure that the water pressure and temperature are stable and that there are no leaks or drips.

If there are any issues, turn the water off and check all connections before testing again.

With these simple steps, you can easily install a 3-way shower diverter and enjoy the convenience of switching between a showerhead and handheld showerhead or using them both simultaneously.

Potential Issues And Troubleshooting

Installing a 3-way shower diverter may seem straightforward, but potential issues can arise. Here are some potential problems and troubleshooting solutions to ensure a smooth installation process.

Leaks

One issue that can arise during installation is leaks. Leaks can occur due to faulty or damaged parts, incorrect installation, or missing sealant. Here are some tips to fix leaks:

• Tighten any loose connections with a wrench.
• Replace any damaged or worn-out seals.
• Apply plumber’s tape or sealant to any connections that may be missing it.

Drips

Another potential issue is drips. Drips can occur due to a faulty valve or improper installation. Here are some solutions to fix drips:

• Tighten any loose connections with a wrench.
• Check the valve for any debris or damage, and clean or replace it if necessary.
• Adjust the valve to ensure it is fully closed when not in use.

Inaccurate Water Temperature

If your water temperature is not accurate after installing a 3-way shower diverter, there may be an issue with the mixer valve. Here are some solutions to fix inaccurate water temperature:

• Adjust the valve to ensure proper flow of hot and cold water.
• Check for any debris or damage in the mixer valve and clean or replace it if necessary.
• Consider upgrading to a thermostatic mixing valve to ensure accurate water temperature.

Remember, if you encounter any issues during installation and are unsure how to fix them, consider contacting a professional plumber for assistance. By troubleshooting any potential issues, you can ensure a successful installation of a 3-way shower diverter in your bathroom.

Frequently Asked Questions For How To Install A 3 Way Shower Diverter Valve

What Is A 3 Way Shower Diverter Valve?

A 3 way shower diverter valve is a plumbing fixture that directs the flow of water between your showerhead, handheld shower or bathtub. It allows you to switch the water flow between two or three outlets.

Why Do I Need To Install A 3 Way Shower Diverter Valve?

If you want the convenience of being able to switch between different shower outlets, such as a showerhead and handheld shower, you will need to install a 3 way shower diverter valve. This will allow you to easily control the flow of water between the different outlets.

How Do I Install A 3 Way Shower Diverter Valve?

To install a 3 way shower diverter valve, you will need to shut off the water supply, remove the old diverter valve, fit the new valve in place, and then connect it to the water supply using the appropriate fittings.

You may find it easier to hire a professional plumber to do this for you.

Can I Install A 3 Way Shower Diverter Valve Myself?

If you have some plumbing experience and the right tools, you can install a 3 way shower diverter valve yourself. However, if you are not confident in your skills, it’s best to hire a professional plumber to do the job for you.

Where Can I Buy A 3 Way Shower Diverter Valve?

You can buy a 3 way shower diverter valve at your local hardware or home improvement store, or online through various retailers. Just make sure to choose a high-quality, durable valve that is designed to meet your specific needs.

Conclusion

After reading this article, you should now have a solid grasp of how to install a 3-way shower diverter valve. Remember to turn off the water supply before starting the installation process and to follow all manufacturer instructions carefully. A diverter valve can greatly enhance your showering experience by allowing you to switch from your showerhead to a handheld shower or even a body spray system.

With the knowledge gained from this article, you can confidently install your own 3-way shower diverter valve and customize your showering experience to your liking. Always remember to take safety precautions, such as wearing eye protection, when working with tools or plumbing equipment.

Enjoy your newly upgraded shower setup!