Kitchener Handyman Services: Should You Replace Your Shower Valves?

One of the most important features of your bathroom is your shower. Whether you’re maintaining your bathroom or planning a major remodel, be sure you have a steady stream of warm water always at hand. Discover how an old shower valve can affect your entire bathroom and where to turn for prompt plumbing services in Kitchener.

What Are Shower Valves?

Most shower valves are made of brass and located directly behind the handle of your shower or bathtub. This essential component opens and closes the hot and cold water lines headed to the shower head or tub faucet.

Some showers have a single valve that handles both hot and cold water. Others have two valves, one for each line. All types of valves can become damaged or clogged over time. You don’t have to deal with irregular water flow or other issues, but you can restore your shower and bathtub with a single call to Handyman Connection.

What Are the Different Types of Shower Valves?

The type of valve you have varies, but all of them allow you to turn on and off the water. Here are the most common types of valves for showers:

• Mixer valve
• Pressure-balancing valve
• Diverter valve
• Thermostatic valve

A mixer valve used to be the most popular, but now is typically only found in older homes. This style of valve draws in water from both water lines to create a specific temperature. The amount of hot or cold water depends on the positioning of the handle. These valves aren’t used in modern showers because they are susceptible to temperature swings as water is drawn to other fixtures in your home.

Pressure-balancing valves are the new most common type. These are designed to keep moderate both the temperature and pressure, keeping the water flowing at the exact temperature you set it with the handle.

Diverter valves are found in combination bathtub/showers. They include a lever that allows you to switch between the tub faucet and the shower head.

Finally, thermostatic valves are another design that moderates both temperature and pressure. Some are even more convenient than pressure-balancing valves, since they can include anti-cold water and anti-scald features.

What Are the Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Valve?

There are several reasons why you should keep your shower valve updated. Schedule a professional inspection to look for one or more of these signs that it’s time to swap out a damaged or clogged valve in your home:

• Leaking water
• Low water pressure
• Irregular temperatures
• Difficulty turning the water on or off

A damaged valve may be leaking behind your shower wall. This sign is difficult to see without removing the faceplate. You may also notice mold, mildew or damp areas around the shower, which are all signs that there’s a leak.

Valves can become clogged over time, blocking some or most of the water flow to the shower head. Low pressure can also be caused by a leak or other issues, so work with a professional plumber to identify the cause of your pressure issues.

Sudden temperature swings in the shower aren’t enjoyable. If you’ve ever been shocked by scalding or cold water, then it may be time to swap out that mixer valve for a pressure-balancing or thermostatic alternative.

An old or damaged valve may also stick, making it difficult to turn the water on or off. A local plumber can make quick work of this task and help you find the right replacement component for a hassle-free project.

Where Can You Find Reliable Plumbing Services in Kitchener

Enjoy a refreshingly comfortable shower without worrying about temperature swings or leaking lines. Contact us to request an estimate in Kitchener to inspect and replace your shower valve.