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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.

Frozen water doesn’t always cause a pipe to burst. Most of the time, a clog will simply prevent your sink from draining properly. Plastic and PVC pipes could warp to expand with the frozen water without rupturing. But as the cold weather progresses and more water or debris piles up in a frozen pipe, the risk of a burst pipe increases.

Bleach is generally not recommended for your shower drains. Although diluted bleach can technically help clean your drain, it will not unclog your pipes. In fact, bleach can harm your plumbing system because it’s so powerful. The bleach can change the color of your sink and even corrode metal pipes and fittings.

Often, people reach for bleach because it's already in their house. But it's worth getting a plunger or a drain snake for the job instead. It'll be a lot less money to buy a new plunger than to pay a plumber to repair or replace damaged pipes.

The cost to hire a plumber ranges from $175 to $450 for a simple job, with the average cost per hour ranging from $45 to $200. Depending on the job, some plumbers charge a flat rate or service fee of $300 on average. Expect to pay more for complex jobs and emergency plumbing repairs, but minor adjustments, diagnostics, and small repairs will cost less. 

Many plumbers offer pressure checks as a part of routine inspections, so if you’re already scheduling a plumbing service for another issue, it’s worth asking them to test your water pressure while they’re there.