[NeedToVent]

I am installing a new walk in shower and want to install a rain head and a separate handheld shower head. I would like a diverter that would give me the choice of using one or the other or both at the same time. It seems that most diverters I see are 4 port diverters, if I I pluged two of these can you set the handle to only turn to the two useable heads? Or will it turn through all the non useable heads as well? I have also seen some 3 port diverters, but they don't mention if they can turn both on at once. Also where whould be the best place to shop for one / best brand. These are two I have found.

http://www.faucetdirect.com/grohe-19-221-single-handle-diverter/p38491

http://www.faucetdirect.com/kohler-k-t16178-4a-revival-single-handle-diverter-trim-with-metal-lever-handle-and-4-ports/p232918

Thanks

[KISS]

This one doesn't come cheap. I have the single port version. Leonard Valve Company - Product Details

Two independent flow adjustable ports are available.

[Milo Dolezal]

Hello NeedToVent... First, something about multi-port diverters...

Different brands use different terminology to specify # of outlets on diverters. For example: Some will say 4-port diverter meaning you have only 2 outlets for shower heads ( the other two are for hot and cold water inlets - or will ask you to plug one inlet and use only the other ) Others will say 4-port diverter and mean 1 inlet (h/c water already mixed) and 3 shower head outlets.

Almost all major faucet manufacturers make these diverters. We like to work with Grohe because Grohe is the inovator of multi-shower head showers. Also, Grohe makes all components, therefore you don't have to mix brands. But you can also go with HansGrohe, Danza, Price Pfister, Kohler, Delta, Moen, and others... Most compact are HansGrohe units. They incorporate volume knob and diverter into one. Therefore, no need for separate diverter valve on the wall.

Diverters are not overly expensive. You can purchase one for around $200.00. It is the installation - or fancy trim finish - that may be expensive.

You will not be able to run 2 heads at the same time. True, you can stop the diverter half way between 2 shower heads and you will have water coming out of two heads - but what you won't have is adequate volume in those heads.

You can solve this problem you rough-in 2 - hot/cold body valves, one for each shower head. That way you will get enough water in both heads.

I am enclosing photo of such shower installation we have completed recently. As you notice, we have total of 5 shower heads / 3 valves / and 2 diverters. On the left and right you have 1 valve and 1 diverter each. Diverter switches between fixed head and hand-held. The middle valve operates Rain Shower head only - therefore there is no need for diverter. In this shower, we can run 3 heads - full blast - at the same time. Important: to maintain good volume to all heads, it was roughed-in with 1" cold water line to each 3/4" valve and 3/4" line to hot water side. Shower head risers are also 3/4". Water pressure at valves is 55 psi. This shower uses one dedicated Rinnai hot water heater located directly behind the shower, to ensure user won't run out of hot water in few minutes. All fixtures are Grohe.

( FYI: the two small knobs on the front wall, towards the bottom, are steam shower outlets... )


Let me know if you have any other question. Milo