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A shower diverter and a shower valve serve different functions, though some modern models combine them into a single unit. A shower diverter is a specific type of valve that directs the flow of water between different fixtures, such as from a tub spout to a showerhead or handheld sprayer. In contrast, a shower valve (often called a mixing valve) controls the water temperature and turns the shower on and off. A shower system can have both a diverter valve and a mixing valve to manage its functions.

Shower valve replacement costs an average of $350, and most homeowners pay between $150 and $550. The price will depend on labor costs in your area, as well as the type of diverter valve you choose. A simple diverter valve could cost just $20 in materials, while a high-end mixing valve for better temperature control can cost $350.

Anything you drop down your sink runs the risk of damaging and clogging your pipes. Hair, bits of food, and other debris can catch on the item and build up over time, causing a clog. Even if it’s not valuable, it’s definitely worth trying to retrieve the item, or at the very least, asking a pro for specific advice.

Pipes most often burst during winter and early spring because those seasons experience the coldest temperatures that can freeze pipes. Pipes typically begin to freeze when the outside temperature falls below 20 degrees Fahrenheit—but it’s not a hard and fast rule.

The largest risk is any period of time when outdoor temperatures fall below freezing for six hours or more. That’s an average winter night in many areas of the United States, so it’s best to take precautions before winter begins, like insulating your pipes.