A shower arm diverter is a small and inexpensive valve that can be installed on your shower arm to provide versatility to clean with either a fixed or handheld showerhead.
This can be perfect for cleaning large areas or reaching difficult spots. Or if people of varying heights use the shower.
Today we’ll share a few tips when buying a shower arm diverter.
- Brass construction
- Lever control
- 1, 2 IPS male outlet"
- 1, 2 IPS female inlet"
- Faucet and Finish Lifetime Limited Warranty
Can Diverters Be Installed On Any Shower Arm?
Nearly all diverters are compatible with all standard shower arms as they feature a standard .5″ IPS (Iron Pipe Straight) connection.
However, it’s always best to check the manufacturer’s compatibility guide to ensure that your diverter will work with your shower arm.
Related: What is a Shower Arm
Will Water Pressure Be Lower When Using a Diverter?
No, there should be no noticeable difference in water pressure when using a diverter, as you are simply redirecting the flow of water from one showerhead to another.
However, if you don’t fully divert the water, there may be a slight decrease in water pressure as the water is now flowing through two showerheads instead of one.
Select a Solid Brass Diverter Over a Plastic One
A solid brass diverter will last longer and provide a better seal than a plastic diverter, which is important to prevent leaks. It will also feel much sturdier when switching between the showerheads.
Don’t Forget to Match The Finish of the Shower Arm and Shower Head
When choosing a diverter, make sure to match the finish of your shower arm and showerhead so that it blends in seamlessly with the rest of your bathroom fixtures. Common finishes include chrome, brushed nickel, and oil-rubbed bronze.
Do You Need a Plumber to Install a Shower Diverter?
In most cases, you will not need a plumber to install a shower diverter as they are relatively easy to install – just like like a shower arm. All you will need is the following:
- Wrench: This will be used to loosen the shower arm so you can screw on the diverter.
- Teflon Tape: This will create a watertight seal so your diverter doesn’t leak.
- Cloth: This will prevent the finish on your shower fixtures from getting scratched.
Common Questions
Do you need to shut off the water main to install a diverter?
No, you should not need to shut off the water main when installing a diverter. Simply turning off the shower faucet will be sufficient.
Can you install a shower diverter in an apartment?
Yes, you can install a shower diverter in an apartment as long as your lease allows for modifications to the unit.
We hope these tips help you select the perfect shower arm diverter for your bathroom.
