What is a two way shower valve?

A two way shower valve is a type of shower valve that allows you to control both the temperature and flow of water from a single handle or knob. It mixes hot and cold water before sending it to the shower head. Two way shower valves are very common in most modern showers.

How Does a Two Way Shower Valve Work?

A two way shower valve works by using a movable disk or cartridge inside the valve body to control both water temperature and volume. Here is a basic overview of how a two way shower valve functions:

• Hot and cold water enter the valve through two separate inlets.
• As the handle is turned side to side, the hot and cold water is mixed before exiting through a single outlet.
• Turning the handle clockwise increases the ratio of hot water, making the water warmer.
• Turning the handle counterclockwise increases the ratio of cold water, making the water cooler.
• The further the handle is turned in either direction, the greater the flow rate of water.

Inside the valve is a movable disk or cartridge with specially designed ports and channels. As the handle is turned, this disk redirects the incoming hot and cold water to mix it to the desired temperature before sending it through the outlet. The same disk also increases or decreases total water flow based on how far the handle is turned.

Types of Two Way Shower Valves

There are a few different types of two way shower valves available. The main types include:

• Ceramic disk valves – These use a rotating ceramic disk to control water flow and temperature. Ceramic disks provide very fine control over temperature and volume.
• Compression valves – Compression valves use rubber washers that get compressed against seats to control water flow. They provide reliable performance at a lower cost than ceramic disks.
• Ball valves – Ball valves use a rotating ball with holes and ports to control water. They tend to be less precise than ceramic disks but are still very common.
• Cartridge valves – These use a plastic or brass cartridge with holes and channels to mix and divert water. Cartridges provide good temperature/volume control.

The main differences come down to price, durability, and ease of operation. Ceramic disks and cartridges tend to provide the best balance of smooth control and long-term reliability.

Benefits of a Two Way Shower Valve

There are several benefits that make two way shower valves very popular in modern bathroom designs:

• Convenience – You can control both water flow and temperature from a single handle. This is more convenient than having separate hot and cold handles.
• Space saving – Only a single knob is needed instead of separate controls. This saves room in the shower enclosure area.
• Better temperature control – The mixing valve allows you to fine tune the perfect water temperature for showering. It provides a wider temperature range than just on/off hot or cold handles.
• Safety – Mixing the hot and cold water reduces the risk of scalding from very hot water straight from the hot water heater.
• Flexibility – You can choose from different styles and finishes to match your bathroom decor seamlessly.

Two way valves have become the norm for most modern showers because of their improved convenience and flexibility over older style separate hot and cold faucets.

How to Choose a Two Way Shower Valve

Here are some tips on selecting the best two way shower valve for your bathroom:

• Consider the valve construction (ceramic disk, cartridge, etc). Ceramic and cartridges tend to have the best performance.
• Pick a durable metal like brass, stainless steel, or copper if you want a very long lasting valve.
• Make sure the valve has anti-scald protection to prevent very hot water coming through.
• Look for a valve that includes volume limiters to help conserve water.
• Choose a style and finish that matches your bathroom’s decor – oil rubbed bronze, chrome, brushed nickel, etc.
• Buy from a reputable brand known for bathroom fixtures and plumbing products.
• Make sure the valve has adequate flow capacity for your shower head’s rating.

You should also measure your existing shower plumbing and buy a valve that fits properly. Pay attention to the hot and cold inlet spacing and outlet size.

How to Install a Two Way Shower Valve

Installing a new two way shower valve is an intermediate level DIY project. Here are the basic steps:

1. Turn off water supply lines and drain the pipes.
2. Remove existing valve and pipe fittings. Clean the wall surface thoroughly.
3. Place the new valve and fittings on the pipes and mark locations to drill holes.
4. Drill holes and insert anchors for the valve mounting screws.
5. Mount the new valve to the wall using the provided screws.
6. Solder copper pipes or use push-fit fittings to connect hot and cold supplies.
7. Connect the outlet pipe to the shower arm and head.
8. Apply plumbers putty or tape to seal all connections.
9. Turn water back on and test for leaks. Adjust temperature limit stop as needed.

The entire process takes 2-3 hours for most DIYers. Pay close attention to the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Having some plumbing experience is recommended before tackling a shower valve replacement job.

Maintenance Tips for Two Way Shower Valves

To keep your two way shower valve working properly for years, follow these maintenance tips:

• Check annually for leaks and immediately replace any worn washers or O-rings.
• Clean the valve exterior as needed with mild soap and water to remove limescale and debris buildup.
• Disassemble and inspect internal components every 2-3 years. Replace worn parts like washers, springs, cartridges, etc.
• Lubricate rubber seals and O-rings during disassembly using silicone grease.
• Flush debris from hot and cold inlet screens/filters once per year.
• Replace the valve every 5-10 years for optimal performance.

Following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule is highly recommended. Periodic inspection and part replacement will add years of reliable service from a high quality shower valve.

Troubleshooting Common Two Way Shower Valve Problems

Some common problems with two way shower valves include:

Problem	Possible Causes	Solutions
Leaking valve	Worn washers or O-rings, loose connections	Replace seals, tighten connections
Water too hot or cold	Incorrect temperature limit set, blocked flow	Adjust limit stops, check/clean inlet screens
Low water pressure	Partially blocked/clogged inlet screens or pipes	Remove and clean debris from inlet filters and pipes
Noisy valve operation	Worn/damaged internal parts	Disassemble and replace worn disks, cartridges, washers

Refer to the manufacturer’s troubleshooting guide for additional diagnostics and repairs. Contact a plumber for assistance if needed.

Conclusion

A two way shower valve is a convenient fixture that allows you to control both water temperature and volume from a single handle. Inside is a movable disk or cartridge that mixes hot and cold intake and diverts water to the shower outlet. Benefits include easier operation, better temperature regulation, and flexible styling. When selecting a new valve, look for durable internal parts and anti-scald protection. Installation is an intermediate DIY project requiring some plumbing skills. With periodic maintenance and repair of worn components, a quality two way shower valve will provide many years of reliable showering comfort.