How To Upgrade to a Pressure Balanced Shower Valve

Upgrading your shower with a pressure-balanced valve is a smart investment for both safety and comfort. These modern plumbing fixtures prevent sudden temperature changes that can lead to scalding and give a more consistent shower experience. In this article, we’ll explore the process of installing a pressure-balanced shower valve. In the above video, This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey completes a shower valve upgrade in a 1940s Salt Lake City home.

How Pressure-Balanced Valves Work

Pressure-balanced shower valves keep a consistent water temperature even when there’s a change in water pressure. These simple mechanisms use a balancing spool that adjusts the flow of hot and cold water for temperature stability. For example, if someone flushes a toilet or turns on a faucet, the valve automatically adjusts the flow of hot and cold water to prevent a sudden blast of hot water.

Benefits of Upgrading Your Shower Valve

Upgrading to a pressure-balanced shower valve offers several benefits that make it a worthwhile investment for homeowners. Here are some of the key advantages:

Enhanced Safety

The primary advantage of a pressure-balanced valve is its ability to prevent scalding. This is particularly important for households with children or older individuals, as they may be more susceptible to burns.

Improved Comfort

By maintaining a consistent water temperature and pressure, these valves provide a more enjoyable and reliable shower experience. No more unexpected blasts of hot or cold water when someone uses water elsewhere in the house. You can relax and enjoy your shower without any surprises.

Water Conservation

By maintaining a stable flow of water, pressure-balanced valves can help you use water more efficiently. You won’t need to constantly adjust the temperature, potentially wasting water.

Long-Term Reliability

Pressure-balanced valves are designed to last, offering long-term reliability and peace of mind. A high-quality valve can offer years of reliable performance, making it a sound long-term investment. Regularly check and maintain the valve to keep it operating effectively.

Shower Valve Upgrade Preparation

Take the following steps to prepare for your shower value upgrade. 

Tools and Materials Needed

You need the below supplies for your upgrade: 

• Adjustable wrench
• Blowtorch
• Copper pipes and fittings (1/2-inch)
• Drill driver
• Oscillating saw
• Pipe cutters
• Pipe hangers
• Pressure-balanced shower valve
• Retrofit cover plate
• Safety gloves and goggles
• Screwdriver set
• Solder and flux

Accessing the Shower Valve

Sometimes, accessing the shower valve requires a bit of creative problem-solving. In the video, Trethewey removes a kitchen cabinet to create an access panel that provides a clear path to the plumbing without extensive demolition. This approach can save time and reduce the level of disruption to the surrounding area.

Think carefully about the least invasive way to get to the plumbing—doing so can save you time and reduce the mess.

Installation Process of a Pressure Balanced Shower Valve

Installing a pressure-balanced shower valve involves several steps, from removing the old valve to connecting the new one. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

Remove the Old Valve

Start by shutting off the water supply at the main valve, then follow this process: 

1. Trace the outline of the retrofit cover plate over the hole from the old valve. Allow yourself about an inch all the way around for a margin of error.
2. Cut the fiberglass along the outline of the shower valve using an oscillating saw.
3. Cut out the old shower valve and remove the old plumbing. This may involve using an oscillating saw or pipe cutters.
4. If the existing piping is old or corroded, replace any affected sections to secure the connection for the new valve.

Install the New Valve

Now, it’s time to connect the hot and cold water lines to the new valve with these steps:

1. Construct as much of the valve body as possible outside the wall, including attaching the inlet and outlet pipes to it.
2. Solder the connections to create a watertight seal. Use flux to clean the pipe joints and prevent oxidation.
3. Position the new valve assembly in the wall, aligning it with the center of the access hole.
4. Connect the valve to the existing hot and cold water lines, checking that the connections are tight and secure.

Connect the Shower Components

Here’s the step-by-step process to install the shower components:

1. Install the tub spout and shower arm, checking for fit and alignment. Check that the tub spout is positioned correctly to avoid any leaks.
2. Secure all pipes to the structure using pipe hangers to prevent movement and noise. Properly secure the pipes to make sure they remain stable during use.
3. If needed, add additional structure in between the joists. This will prevent the pipes from banging around inside the wall.
4. Before closing the wall, test the connections for leaks. Turn on the water supply and check for any signs of leakage. 

Install the Trim Kit

After confirming that the valve works properly, install the trim kit:

1. Apply the retrofit cover plate, which includes a built-in gasket for a watertight seal.
2. Attach the diverter dial and temperature control handle. Make sure the handle operates smoothly and adjusts the temperature correctly.
3. Secure the trim kit with the provided screws. Use the screwdriver set to tighten the screws and hold the trim kit firmly in place.

Adjust the Shower Head Height

If you want to adjust the height of the shower head, here’s how:

1. Plug the old shower armhole with a sinkhole cover.
2. Drill a new hole higher up on the wall for the shower arm. Use a drill/driver to create a clean hole in your desired location.
3. Install the new shower arm and head at the desired height. Check that the new shower head is attached securely and aligned properly.

Troubleshooting Shower Valve Installation Issues

Here are common issues that could occur during installation, along with the best solutions:

• Leaks: If you notice leaks after installation, make sure that all connections are tight and properly sealed. Recheck the solder joints and pipe fittings.
• Temperature fluctuations: If the water temperature fluctuates, make sure that you installed the pressure-balanced valve correctly and that the balancing spool functions properly. Check for any obstructions in the valve or pipes that might affect water flow.
• Low water pressure: If you experience low water pressure, the valve might be clogged with debris. Disassemble the valve and clean any sediment or buildup. Check that the main water supply to your home is at adequate pressure and that there are no issues with the household plumbing system.
• Installation Issues: Align the valve and shower components carefully. Misalignment can lead to issues with water flow and temperature control. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional assistance if you encounter installation challenges you cannot resolve.

Maintenance Tips for Your New Shower Valve

Use these maintenance tips to keep your valve working properly: 

• Regular inspections: Regularly inspect the valve and surrounding plumbing for leaks. Address any issues quickly to prevent water damage.
• Cleaning: Clean the valve to remove any sediment or mineral buildup that might affect performance. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning procedures. Use a soft cloth to wipe down visible parts of the valve and trim kit to maintain a clean appearance.
• Test temperatures: Test the temperature control to confirm that the valve maintains a consistent water temperature.
• Professional check-up: Schedule a professional inspection every few years to be sure the valve is functioning correctly and to address any potential issues before they escalate.

Resources:

Trethewey installs a Temptrol Pressure Balanced Tub/Shower Valve manufactured by Symmons. Symmons also manufactures the retrofit cover plate Trethewey uses to conceal the hole left behind from the old valve.

The cover Trethewey uses to seal the hole from the old shower head is manufactured by Danco and can be found at home centers.

The other materials Trethewey uses to complete the valve replacement, including the copper pipes, copper fittings, solder and flux, can all be found at home centers and plumbing supply houses.

Shopping List:

• 2-by-4 dimensional lumber
• 1/2-inch copper pipe and fittings
• Flux
• Pipe hangers
• Pressure-balanced shower valve
• Retrofit cover plate for valve
• Shower head
• Solder
• Tub spout

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