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There are three main types of shower valves: pressure-balancing, thermostatic, and diverter. Pressure-balancing and thermostatic valves are both considered mixing valves because they regulate water flow and temperature, but they do so in different ways. A pressure-balancing valve senses changes in water pressure, such as from a flushing toilet, and adjusts the incoming hot and cold water to maintain a consistent temperature; these typically use a single knob. A thermostatic valve uses a thermostat to precisely control the water temperature and requires a separate control to adjust the water volume. A diverter valve directs the flow of water from one fixture to another, such as switching from a tub faucet to a showerhead in a tub-shower combination.

There are nearly as many handles for your outdoor faucet as there are for your indoor faucets. Just a few include:

• Hose bibb tee handle: about $8–$30

• Better grip outdoor faucet handle: $20 on average

• Round wheel handle: $6–$22

• Turn hose bibb handle: about $15

• Decorative handle: range from $15 to over $100

Pipes are connected in a bathroom by a 3/4-inch to 1-inch line running from your water meter into your home. The line then splits, with the hot water line going to your water heater and the cold water line running into your home. The cold water line leads to the 1/2-inch water supply lines for your home’s toilet, tub, and sink. The hot water line runs from the water heater to all sinks and baths.

It is generally recommended to schedule a professional plumbing inspection annually, though an inspection every two years may be sufficient for newer homes. The ideal frequency depends on several factors, including the age of your plumbing system, water quality (such as hardness), and any previous plumbing issues. More frequent checks are advisable for older homes or those with a history of problems. Additionally, if your property has mature trees with extensive root systems, more frequent inspections are beneficial as roots can crack sewer and water lines. Regular maintenance helps identify potential issues early, preventing costly repairs, and can include checking for leaks, inspecting connections, and ensuring pipes and fixtures are in good working condition to prolong the life of your plumbing system.