Using a bathtub diverter is simple; it's the mechanism that directs water flow from the tub spout up to the showerhead. The method depends on the specific type of diverter installed in your tub.
Understanding the Bathtub Diverter
A bathtub diverter is a valve that lets you switch water flow between the bathtub spout and the showerhead. Without it, water would only come out of the tub spout.
There are several common types of diverters, but the operation is always about redirecting water upwards.
Using a Three-Valve Diverter
According to the provided information, tubs with separate hot and cold handles often feature a three-valve diverter. This diverter is typically located between the hot and cold faucet handles.
Here's how to use this type of diverter:
- Initiate Water Flow: Turn on the hot and cold handles to start water flowing from the tub spout, mixing the water to your desired temperature.
- Activate the Shower: Locate the third handle, which is the diverter. Turning its third handle clockwise 180 degrees will do that job, meaning it will redirect the hot and cold water directly to the showerhead.
- Return to Tub Spout: To stop water from flowing to the showerhead and restore the flow from the tub spout, simply turn the handle the opposite way.
This specific type of diverter gives you separate controls for hot water, cold water, and the water path (tub or shower).
While other diverter types exist (like lift-gate knobs on the tub spout or single-handle systems with integrated diverters), the three-valve system operates using its dedicated, third handle as described above.
