How to Install a Shower Diverter with PEX

If you want to add a handheld shower head or a tub spout to your existing shower, you will need to install a shower diverter. A shower diverter is a valve that allows you to switch the water flow between different outlets. For example, you can use a shower diverter to choose between a fixed shower head and a handheld shower head, or between a shower head and a tub spout.

Installing a shower diverter with PEX plumbing is not very difficult if you have some basic plumbing skills and tools. PEX is a flexible plastic tubing that is easy to cut, bend, and connect. It is also resistant to corrosion, freezing, and bursting.

In this blog post, we will show you how to install a shower diverter with PEX plumbing in six simple steps.

What You Will Need

Before you start installing your shower diverter with PEX, you will need some tools and materials. You will need:

• A PEX cutter
• A PEX crimping tool
• A PEX uncrimping tool
• PEX crimp rings
• PEX fittings
• A shower diverter valve
• A handheld shower head or a tub spout (optional)
• A drill
• A hole saw
• A screwdriver
• A wrench
• A tape measure
• A pencil
• A level
• Teflon tape
• Plumber’s putty

You can find these tools and materials at your local hardware store or online. Make sure that you buy the correct size and type of PEX tubing, fittings, and valve for your shower system.

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

The first step is to turn off the water supply to your shower system. This will prevent water from spraying out when you cut the pipes.

• Locate the main water shut-off valve for your house. It is usually located in the basement, garage, or utility room.
• Turn the valve clockwise until it stops. This will cut off the water supply to your entire house.
• Turn on your shower faucet to drain any remaining water from the pipes.

Alright, here are the rest of the steps.

Step 2: Cut the PEX Tubing

The next step is to cut the PEX tubing that connects your shower valve to your shower head. You will need to cut it at a point where you want to install your shower diverter.

• Use a tape measure and a pencil to mark the location where you want to cut the PEX tubing. Make sure that you have enough space to fit the shower diverter valve and the fittings.
• Use a PEX cutter to cut the PEX tubing at the marked location. Make sure that you cut it straight and clean.
• Repeat the same process for the other PEX tubing that connects your shower valve to your shower head.

Step 3: Install the Shower Diverter Valve

The third step is to install the shower diverter valve between the two cut ends of the PEX tubing. You will need to use PEX fittings and crimp rings to connect them.

• Choose the type of shower diverter valve that suits your needs. There are different types of shower diverter valves, such as three-way, four-way, or six-way valves. They have different numbers of outlets and configurations. For example, a three-way valve has one inlet and two outlets, and can be used to switch between a shower head and a handheld shower head. A four-way valve has one inlet and three outlets, and can be used to switch between a shower head, a handheld shower head, and a tub spout.
• Apply some Teflon tape on the threads of the shower diverter valve. This will help prevent leaks and make it easier to tighten.
• Attach a PEX fitting to each outlet of the shower diverter valve. Use a wrench to tighten them securely.
• Slide a PEX crimp ring over one end of the PEX tubing that connects to your shower valve. Insert the end of the tubing into the fitting on the inlet of the shower diverter valve. Make sure that it is fully inserted.
• Slide the crimp ring over the fitting and use a PEX crimping tool to crimp it in place. Make sure that it is properly crimped and secure.
• Repeat the same process for the other end of the PEX tubing that connects to your shower valve.
• Slide a PEX crimp ring over one end of the PEX tubing that connects to your shower head. Insert the end of the tubing into the fitting on one of the outlets of the shower diverter valve. Make sure that it is fully inserted.
• Slide the crimp ring over the fitting and use a PEX crimping tool to crimp it in place. Make sure that it is properly crimped and secure.
• Repeat the same process for any other PEX tubing that connects to your shower head, handheld shower head, or tub spout.

Step 4: Drill a Hole for the Shower Diverter Handle

The fourth step is to drill a hole in your shower wall for the shower diverter handle. You will need to use a drill and a hole saw for this.

• Use a tape measure and a level to mark the location where you want to drill the hole for the shower diverter handle. Make sure that it is aligned with the shower diverter valve and at a comfortable height for you to reach.
• Use a drill and a hole saw that matches the size of your shower diverter handle to drill a hole through your shower wall. Be careful not to damage any pipes or wires behind the wall.
• Clean up any debris or dust from the drilling process.

Step 5: Attach the Shower Diverter Handle

The fifth step is to attach the shower diverter handle to the shower diverter valve. You will need to use a screwdriver and some plumber’s putty for this.

• Apply some plumber’s putty around the hole that you drilled in your shower wall. This will help seal the gap and prevent water from leaking behind the wall.
• Insert the stem of the shower diverter handle through the hole and into the shower diverter valve. Make sure that it fits snugly and securely.
• Use a screwdriver to fasten the shower diverter handle to the shower diverter valve with the provided screw. Do not overtighten or under-tighten the screw.
• Wipe off any excess plumber’s putty with a damp cloth.

Step 6: Test Your Shower Diverter

The final step is to test your shower diverter and make sure that it works properly and safely.

• Turn on the main water supply valve and check for any leaks or drips. If you see any, turn off the water and tighten or adjust the fittings or valves as needed.
• Turn on your shower faucet and test your shower diverter. Switch between different outlets and check that the water flow and temperature are consistent and stable. If you notice any problems, turn off the water and troubleshoot the issue.
• Enjoy your new shower diverter and your enhanced shower experience.

Conclusion

We hope that this blog post has helped you learn how to install a shower diverter with PEX plumbing. By following these six simple steps, you can add a handheld shower head or a tub spout to your existing shower system. PEX plumbing is easy to work with and durable, making it a great choice for your shower project.