How to Install Shower Valves?

A shower valve is a device that controls the flow of water in your shower. It can be controlled from both inside and outside the bathroom. There are many different styles, but they all function similarly – by turning on or off the hot and cold water. When installing one of these valves, there are some things you should know first.

First, take a look at the existing valve currently in place on your shower and see how it works – what type of handle does it have? What are all the markings etched onto its surface? These facts will come into play when selecting the new one shower valve for replacement. Also, take note of how many holes are in the wall. In most cases, there will be three – one for cold water and two for hot water (one of which is usually larger than another).

Suppose your existing shower valve has a round handle that twists to control it. In that case, you can either choose an exact replacement or change out with something completely different. Shower valves come in different styles, so you can choose a style that suits you.

If your shower is a single-control valve, you can choose to replace it with either a single control or double handle. If replacing an existing unit with two separate valves (one for the hot water and one for cold), you are not restricted by what type of handles.

Steps to Installing Your Shower Valve

You can install your shower valve in the following few steps:

• Step One: Turn off the water supply. You can do this by shutting down the hot and cold valves that lead into your shower, or you could turn on both taps in your sink to release pressure from the pipes if they are not shutoff valves.
• Step Two: Remove everything around where the shower valve is installed. This means you will need to remove tiles and soap dishes if necessary.
• Step Three: Remove the old valve. This is usually done by unscrewing the nuts around it with a wrench, or you could also use pliers to grip onto them and turn counterclockwise until they are free from their holder.
• Step Four: Prepare where your new shower valve will be installed by cleaning off any rust or dirt present. Ensure you do this step thoroughly to prevent future problems from occurring.
• Step Five: Screw on the nuts around your new shower valve in a clockwise direction, ensuring they are fully tightened.
• Step Six: Attach the water line to your shower valve by screwing it into place and then sealing it with Teflon tape or plumbers putty for maximum leak protection.
• Step Seven: Turn on the water to test for leakage. After that, reattach the trim plate and the shower handle.
• Step Eight: Repeat steps one through seven for the remaining two valves.

After installation, you should be able to turn on your shower and enjoy a nice hot bath or an invigorating cold shower!