Best Shower Valve Reviews in 2023
Written by Wilfred WeiheBest shower valve is an essential part of the showering system. It can make or break your good showering experience. The shower valve is used for controlling the flow of water stream coming out through the shower head. Your showering experience depends heavily on the shower valve employed in the shower system. Therefore, we can deduce that a shower valve has a direct effect on the performance delivered by a shower system. This article provides every bit of essential information you need to have about shower valves.
The article features dedicated sections for shower valve buying guide and installation procedure of the same. Before divulging into them aforesaid sections, let's check the best shower valves comparison table:Best shower valve reviews in 2023
Delta Faucet R10000-UNBX MultiChoice Universal Tub and Shower Valve Body

The top-notch shower valve ensures best water flow performance to enhance the showering experience.
Delta Faucet R10000-UNBX is capable of accepting single, dual or dual thermostatic cartridge.
Moreover, the shower mixer valve offers back-to-back capability.
A mounting bracket comes with the shower valve for facilitating a sturdy installation and prevents rocking of the valve.
Delta Faucet R10000-UNBX features three connection types namely IPS, PEX, and Universal connection.
A square plaster guard is present around the shower valve, and it allows easy fitting in a 90 degrees cut.
The shower mixer valve comes with a heat-resistant pressure test cap for air and water testing before the user installs the valve cartridge.
The overall dimensions of this shower valve are 4.9 X 5.1 X 4.9 inches, and it weighs 1.4 pounds.
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Delta Faucet R10000-UNBX Review
Delta Faucet R10000-UNBX tub and shower valve offer high performance along with features such as heat-resistant pressure cap and square plaster guard.
Delta Faucet R10000-UNBX Pros
- Attractive brass finishing.
- Easy installation.
- Do not require alteration of plumbing behind the wall.
- Capable of working with single, dual and dual thermostatic cartridge.
- Offers 3 different connections, IPS, PEX and Universal connection.
- Comes with heat-resistant pressure test cap.
- A limited lifetime warranty backs faucet and finish.
Delta Faucet R10000-UNBX Cons
- The cartridge has to be bought separately.
- Low-volume of water.
Our Verdict
Delta Faucet R10000-UNBX is a good shower mixing valve in its price range, but you have to spend extra bucks for buying one of the best shower faucets.
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Pfister 00131XA 3-Handle Tub & Shower Rough-In Valve

This shower mixer valve offers 1/2" union inlets and 1/2" I.P. outlets.
The package of the Pfister 00131XA includes union nuts for easy installation.
Pfister 00131XA tub and shower valve have dimensions of 0.1 X 8 X 10.6 inches.
The lightweight shower mixing valve weighs only a single pound.
The size of the shower valve is 0.5 inch and offers 3-hole installation.
There are three different handles available with the shower mixing valve, and it is a certified frustration-free product.
Pfister ensures reliability among the customers by offering a lifetime Pforever Warranty on both the finish and functionality of the Pfister 00131XA shower valve.
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Pfister 00131XA Review
Pfister 00131XA tub and shower valve come with features such as 3-handles, easy installation and lightweight.
These features make it one of the best 3-handle shower valves.
Pfister 00131XA Pros
- Brass construction provides durability and long life to the shower rough-in valve.
- Easy 3-hole installation.
- Comes with union nuts.
- Lightweight.
- Inlets and outlets are both of ½ inches.
- Easy-to-operate with available three handles.
- Certified frustration-free.
- Backed by a lifetime Pforever warranty on both functioning and finish of the valve.
Pfister 00131XA Cons
- Hard to find a perfect trim kit for the shower valve.
Verdict
Pfister 00131XA tub and shower valve is an average shower valve regarding both performance and looks. The product is ideal for those looking to invest in a shower mixing valve with balanced looks and functionality with a justified price-tag.
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Pressure Balancing Valve Reviews
KOHLER K-304-KS-NA Rite-Temp Pressure Balancing Valve

The shower valve offers back-to-back installation, which is suitable for high-volume jobs.
The flow rate and water consumption of this pressure balancing valve are restricted to 5 GPM (Gallons per Minute), which is an ideal flow rate.
It is easy to install KOHLER K-304-KS-NA shower valve, and mounting tabs are also provided on rough-in to ensure a secure installation.
An integrated screwdriver offered with the shower mixing valve assists in repairing the device.
This shower mixing valve is ideal for families with children, KOHLER K-304-KS-NA is capable of providing anti-scald protection and temperature regulation.
The shower valve is capable of maintaining water temperature with +/- 3 degrees Fahrenheit, thus minimizing chances of getting thermal shocks.
Overall dimensions of KOHLER K-304-KS-NA shower mixer valve are 7 X 7 X 6.5 inches with item size of 0.5 inches and weighs about 3.1 pounds.
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KOHLER K-304-KS-NA Review
KOHLER K-304-KS-NA shower valve is capable of providing complete safety to the users with its anti-scald and temperature regulation features.
KOHLER K-304-KS-NA Pros
- Stylish and elegant design.
- Capable of balancing the pressure of water.
- Secure installation with integrated mounting tabs.
- Protection from scald burns and thermal shocks.
- Back-to-back installation.
KOHLER K-304-KS-NA Cons
- No provision to control the volume of water.
- Valve trim needs to be bought separately.
Verdict
KOHLER K-304-KS-NA shower valve offers handy features at an affordable price, which makes it a worth buying product.
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Moen 2510 Monticello PosiTemp Pressure Balancing Shower Valve

The shower valve utilizes Moen M-PACT common valve system, which allows easy installation and eliminates the requirement of replacing plumbing for future style updates.
The 1222 cartridge allows back-to-back installation.
Connection type offered by Moen 2510 shower valve is 1/2 inch IPS connection.
To prevent users from getting thermal shocks during shower, the shower mixing valve has been equipped with PosiTemp technology, which helps in maintaining a constant temperature of water.
Moreover, Moen 2510 shower mixer valve offers adequate water flow for making shower enjoyable.
Brass construction makes the shower valve resistant to heat and adds durability.
Moen 2510 shower valve is backed by a limited lifetime warranty covering leaks, drips and finish defects.
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Moen 2510 Review
Moen 2510 shower valve comes with features such as Moen M-PACT common valve system and PosiTemp technology to deliver a better experience to the user.
Moen 2510 Pros
- Back-to-back installation.
- ½ inch IPS connection.
- M-PACT common valve system for easy style updates.
- Maintains water temperature with PosiTemp technology.
- Durable brass construction.
- Limited lifetime warranty on both performance and finish.
Moen 2510 Cons
- Expensive.
- Instructions given for installation are somewhat difficult to understand.
Verdict
Moen 2510 shower valve offers high performance and is excellent at maintaining the temperature of water for shower. However, you have to pay a little more for buying the high-quality shower valve.
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Danze D112000BT Shower Single Control Pressure Balance Mixing Valve

The shower valve offers back-to-back installation and uses ceramic disc valves for smooth handle control while preventing any dripping and leakage.
There are two separate ceramic discs namely upper disc and lower disc, which slide over each other and are responsible for controlling the temperature and flow of water.
Danze D112000BT shower valve supports two outlets and is a perfect option for tub-shower and shower-hand shower combinations.
The size of the shower mixer valve is 1/2 inch and have a maximum flow rate of 6 GPM at 45 PSI.
Danze D112000BT shower mixing valve has dimensions of 16 X 9 X 6 inches and weighs about 2 pounds.
The shower valve is durable with its construction using brass and looks stylish due to the fine copper finish.
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Danze D112000BT Review
Danze D112000BT Shower Single Control Pressure Balance Mixing Valve is capable of maintaining the temperature and pressure of water with high accuracy to ensure complete safety and convenience.
Danze D112000BT Pros
- Attractive looks with copper finishing.
- Comes with screwdriver stops.
- Offers mounting bracket and plaster guard.
- Backed up by a limited lifetime warranty.
Danze D112000BT Cons
- Requires professional installation.
- Complex instructions.
Verdict
Danze D112000BT shower valve offers many handy features at a reasonable price, and you should consider it if you are willing to buy a shower valve.
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Moen 2570 Rough-In PosiTemp Pressure Balancing Cycling Shower Valve

The pressure balancing valve comes with 1/2 inch CC connections along with 1/4 turn stops.
Moen 2570 utilizes 1222 cartridge, which allows back-to-back installations.
Moen M-PACT common valve system lets users install updates without altering the plumbing.
The temperature of the water is maintained by the PosiTemp technology while the pressure is regulated using the PosiTemp pressure balancing technology.
The shower mixing valve uses metal construction to ensure proper strength and resistance against heat.
Moen 2570 has dimensions of 7 X 7 X 6 inches and weighs about 3 pounds.
This shower mixing valve is backed by a limited lifetime manufacturer warranty.
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Moen 2570 Review
Moen 2570 shower valve is highly functional and ensures accurate temperature and pressure control.
Moen 2570 Pros
- Full metal body ensures a durable performance.
- M-PACT common valve system for easy style updates.
- PosiTemp Pressure Balancing allows pressure and temperature control.
- Helps in preventing thermal shocks.
- Meets ASSE performance requirements.
- Back-to-back installations.
- Comes with installation instructions.
- Offers limited lifetime warranty against drips, leaks and finish defects.
Moen 2570 Cons
- No option for controlling the volume of water.
Verdict
Moen 2570 Rough-In PosiTemp Pressure Balancing Cycling Shower Valve offers many useful features and is very functional, which makes it a worth trying shower valve product.
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Grohe 35015000 Grohsafe Universal Pressure Balance Rough-In Valve

The shower valve is an ideal choice for protection against scalding and thermal shocks.
Grohe 35015000 offers easy and accurate temperature control for making the shower experience better.
The shower valve has dimensions of 7.48 X 6.50 X 6.30 inches and weighs only 3.2 pounds.
The metal construction of the valve makes it highly durable and offers a fairly long operation.
Additionally, Grohe 35015000 utilizes Grohe SilkMove technology, which ensures smooth and hassles free working.
Cartridge employed in the shower mixing valve is a diaphragm cartridge.
It is easy to install the shower mixing valve with the help of instructions manual that comes with it.
Apart from functionality, Grohe 35015000 shower valve has an appealing design along with a beautiful StarLight chrome finish.
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Grohe 35015000 Review
Grohe 35015000 Grohsafe shower valve assures complete safety against thermal shock and employs attractive design and finish.
Grohe 35015000 Pros
- Smooth and easy to operate.
- Fully metal construction ensures a longer life.
- Chrome finishing.
- Prevents thermal shocks and scald burns.
- Easy installation.
- Backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
Grohe 35015000 Cons
- Hot water limit is not mentioned in the instructional manual.
- No mounting brackets are available.
Verdict
Grohe 35015000 shower valve is among the best shower valves, but it is a bit overpriced as compared to the features catered by it. Features such as Grohe SilkMove and diaphragm cartridge makes it a healthy option especially for families with children and old.
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Thermostatic Valve Reviews
Kohler K-2972-KS-NA MasterShower Thermostatic Valve

The shower valve helps in preventing thermal shocks and scald burns.
Kohler K-2972-KS-NA has an innovative shuttle design that allows accurate temperature control.
Moreover, this shower thermostatic valve offers a generous water flow rate so that users can enjoy a shower without any interference.
Maximum flow rate of Kohler K-2972-KS-NA shower mixing valve is 7.2 GPM (Gallons per Minute).
The weight of the shower valve is 4.2 pounds and has dimensions of 10.2 X 7.8 X 6.8 inches.
To enhance the ruggedness of the shower valve, solid brass is used in its construction.
Kohler K-2972-KS-NA shower thermostatic valve is made reliable with a limited lifetime warranty offered by the manufacturer.
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Kohler K-2972-KS-NA Review
Kohler K-2972-KS-NA thermostatic valve offers many handy features such as precise temperature control, durable construction, and easy-to-operate that makes it a highly functional device.
Kohler K-2972-KS-NA Pros
- 1/2 inch size of the thermostatic valve.
- Ideal for operating master shower system.
- Shuttle design allows precise temperature control.
- Delivers a flow rate of 7.2 GPM.
- Solid brass construction ensures a long operation.
- Prevents thermal shocks.
- Protection against scald burns makes it suitable for homes with children.
- Limited lifetime warranty.
Kohler K-2972-KS-NA Cons
- Complex installation.
- Heavy weight.
- Very expensive.
Verdict
Kohler K-2972-KS-NA is a perfect shower valve option to add safety and comfort to the shower system.
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Danze D155000BT Single Handle Thermostatic Shower Valve

This shower thermostatic valve features 3/4 inch FPI inlets and outlets for easy connections.
Danze D155000BT allows precise temperature control and prevent users from getting thermal shocks.
The flow rate offered by the shower mixing valve is 16.6 GPM (Gallons per Minute) at 45 PSI (Pounds per Square Inch).
The shower valve is ideal for homes with children as it offers complete scald protection.
Danze D155000BT shower valve is durable and offers lifelong service with its solid brass construction.
The dimensions of the shower thermostatic valve are 4 X 5.5 X 7 inches (H X W X D) with a weight of about 5.17 pounds.
The shower valve is compliant with American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and Canadian Standards Association (CSA) standards.
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Danze D155000BT Review
Danze D155000BT is a single handle thermostatic shower valve with features such as scald protection, integrated check valves, and screwdriver stops.
Danze D155000BT Pros
- Attractive rough brass finish.
- Durable solid brass construction.
- Screwdriver stops for sturdy placement.
- Offers a good flow rate of 16.6 GPM.
- Easy to install with the help of detailed instructions manual.
- ASME and CSA compliant.
- Reliable product with limited lifetime warranty.
Danze D155000BT Cons
- Requires separate volume control.
- High pricing.
Verdict
The performance offered by Danze D155000BT shower valve is very good, but you need to spend a few extra bucks for buying it.
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Digital Thermostatic Valve Reviews
KOHLER K-682-K-NA DTV Six-port Thermostatic Valve

This high-end shower valve utilizes innovative technology to enhance the showering experience.
Temperature adjustment made in the shower mixing valve is through a digital control, which allows users to change temperature precisely.
Six outlets are available in the shower valve along with 3/4 inch supply lines.
The flow rate offered by KOHLER K-682-K-NA is 21 GPM at 45 PSI.
The shower valve measures 0.1 X 12 X 28.2 inches and weighs only 2 pounds.
Solid brass is used in the construction of the shower valve to increase durability and longevity.
Additionally, the shower valve is certified frustration free and is easy to install.
An instructional manual comes with the shower valve, which assists users in installing and operating the device.
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KOHLER K-682-K-NA Review
KOHLER K-682-K-NA thermostatic shower valve offer features such as lightweight, durable construction, longevity and digital temperature control that makes it one of the best digital control shower valve.
KOHLER K-682-K-NA Pros
- Employs intuitive technology to deliver better performance.
- Digital temperature control.
- Delivers a flow rate of 21 GPM.
- Six outlets along with 3/4-inch hot/cold supply lines.
- Certified frustration-free unit.
- Easy installation.
- Increased durability with solid brass as construction material.
KOHLER K-682-K-NA Cons
- Very expensive.
- Leakage problem occurs sometimes.
Verdict
KOHLER K-682-K-NA thermostatic valve is an ideal choice for people who are looking for a high-end shower valve that allows precise temperature control and delivers high-quality performance.
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Kohler K-528-K-NA DTV Digital Two-Port Thermostatic Valve

The shower valve uses digital control that conveniently allows precise temperature control.
Kohler K-528-K-NA thermostatic shower valve is capable of delivering 13 GPM flow rate at 45 PSI and offers a maximum flow rate of 80 GPM from a single outlet.
Users can install the shower mixing valve up to a distance of 20 feet away from the main interface by using a standard RJ-11 phone extension cord.
The shower valve features 1/2 inch hot/cold supply lines.
Kohler K-528-K-NA shower valve is a bit heavy with weight about 6 pounds and has dimensions 0.1 X 13.3 X 18.5 inches.
Additionally, to ensure reliability among users, a limited lifetime warranty is offered on Kohler K-528-K-NA shower valve.
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Kohler K-528-K-NA Review
Kohler K-528-K-NA thermostatic shower valve is among the best digital shower valves and offers features such as precise temperature control, good flow rate and installation up to 20 feet away from the digital interface.
Kohler K-528-K-NA Pros
- Digital interface for precise control of temperature.
- Capable of connecting up to 2 digital prompt interfaces.
- Two ports and 1/2 inch hot/cold supply lines.
- The flow rate of 13 GPM at 45 PSI.
- Backed up by a limited lifetime warranty.
- Good customer support.
Kohler K-528-K-NA Cons
- Expensive.
- Heavyweight.
Verdict
Kohler K-528-K-NA thermostatic shower valve delivers excellent performance and is completely reliable, which makes this product worth buying.
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Moen S3384 iodigital Thermostatic Shower Valve

The high-end shower valve comes with push-fit connectors for both inlet and the outlet.
The connections offered by Moen S3384 digital shower valve are 3/4 inch CC connections.
With this shower mixing valve, users will be able to control temperature and flow water along with custom preset for a better showering experience.
The shower valve offers four separate ports and allows a user to set the temperature ranging from 60 degrees Fahrenheit to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
The maximum flow rate offered is 17.5 GPM at 45 PSI.
Dimensions of Moen S3384 digital shower valve are 30.1 X 18.3 X 6.9 inches and weighs about 20.5 pounds.
A 30-foot cable is provided with the main unit for connecting valve with the digital interface.
Additionally, Moen offers a 5-year warranty on all the digital components and a limited lifetime warranty against leaks, drips and finish defects.
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Moen S3384 Review
Moen S3384 digital thermostatic shower valve uses digital control for adjusting temperature precisely.
Push connectors, flow control and custom preset makes showering completely luxurious and enjoyable.
Moen S3384 Pros
- Metal construction for enhanced durability.
- Push connectors for hassle free connections.
- Smooth and reliable operation.
- 5-year warranty on digital components.
Moen S3384 Cons
- Heavyweight.
- Very expensive.
Verdict
Moen S3384 digital thermostatic valve ensures complete control over the temperature and flow of water and is thus a very reliable option as a high-performance shower valve.
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Moen S3102 Digital Shower Valve

The shower valve is available in two variants viz. 2-outlet and 4-outlet.
The shower mixing valve features an optional battery backup kit, which users can install to operate the device without AC power.
Moen S3102 digital shower valve has a compact design with dimensions 13.8 X 2.2 X 45.8 inches that allow easy and hassle free installation.
Moreover, a 30-foot data cable and an AC adapter come with the shower valve to offer flexibility in installations.
Filter screens of the showering valve block any debris and can be cleaned easily.
Precise control of temperature and water flow allows users to have an enhanced showering experience.
The shower control valve offers 12 personalized presets that have settings such as name, greeting, a number of outlets used, temperature, shower time and notifications.
Moen S3102 digital shower valve ensures complete reliability among users with 5-year warranty on digital components and a limited lifetime warranty against leaks, drips and finish defects.
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Moen S3102 Review
Moen S3102 digital shower valve offers features such as digital control of temperature and flow, 12 custom preset, optional battery backup and outlet options.
Moen S3102 Pros
- Lightweight with a weight of just 1.5 pounds.
- Precise temperature control.
- Two variants viz. 2-oulet and 4-outlet.
- Sleek design and easy installation.
- Optional battery kit is available.
- Digital components backed by a 5-year warranty.
Moen S3102 Cons
- Very expensive.
- Necessitates professional installation.
Verdict
Moen S3102 digital shower valve is among the best digital shower valves with a great functionality and control.
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Best Shower Valve Buying Guide

Moreover, they give the user control over the water flow.
Shower valves are available in some builds for suiting different water flow requirements.
The way in which a shower control valve regulates the water flow may be different for different makes.
Therefore, it is important to identify the shower water flow requirements before buying one.
Because there are so many different makes and models of them, it is essential to know the key facts related to shower valves first.
This will help you in choosing and purchasing the best shower valve according to your needs.
There are just so many options that can match perfectly with your shower system.
The shower valve buying guide described in the upcoming section of the article will assist you in selecting the best shower valve among these options.
What is a Shower Valve

Whenever you are taking a hot shower, it is possible that a blast of cold water stream may fall over your body or a very hot stream might come out.
Either way, you will have to face thermal shock, and it can result in falls, which can cause some serious injuries.
The falls are more dangerous for older folks and people with physical disabilities.
Children are also vulnerable to scald burns due to hot water bursts as they have thinner skin than adults.
To avoid thermal shocks during the shower, a shower valve is installed within the shower system.
A shower valve regulates the water flow and minimizes fluctuations in water flow and temperature.
Hence, it helps in providing a constant soothing shower water flow.
Things to Consider While Buying the Best Shower Valve
A shower valve is that essential part of the shower system which helps in controlling the flow and temperature of the water.Owing to this fact, the shower valve is used very frequently and thus you need to buy one that meets all your requirements.
Before purchasing a particular shower valve, there are certain things that you need to consider first.
These are discussed as follows:
- Types of Shower Valves : The very first thing that you need to consider is the type of shower control valve.
Different shower valves are there to suit different set of requirements.
All these varieties of shower valves are explained as follows:a. Thermostatic shower valves – Thermostatic shower valves are the ideal water controlling units where shower water is required to come at a constant temperature. These shower valves are specifically designed to eliminate the fluctuations in water temperature, which can be caused by flushing of toilet and/or running taps. With a thermostatic shower control valve, you are saved from thermal shocks or scalding. A thermostatic shower valve consists of two or more handles. In a two-handle thermostatic shower valve, one handle is for controlling the water temperature while the other one is for turning the water on/off. You have to set the temperature valve to get the shower water at desired temperature and there is no need to change the position of the temperature handle daily. Once adjusted, the temperature setting will remain same for each day until changed. Most thermostatic shower valves feature an anti-scald device, which makes them the perfect option for families with children.
Thermostatic shower valve with 3 handles have one handle for temperature control and the rest of the 2 are meant for controlling 2 distinct outlets. Such shower valves are known as triple thermostatic valves. Such shower valves are ideal if you want to use a body jet along with the conventional shower head.
b. Pressure-Balance Shower Valves – As the name suggests, a pressure-balance shower mixing valve precisely controls and maintain the water pressure. These shower valves compensate for all the fluctuations in water pressure and provide a steady water pressure at the output. A pressure-balance shower valve supports a complex design. These shower valves are ideal for sites that features an unsteady water flow.
c. Manual Shower Valves – Manual shower valve is the most common type of shower valves. Such shower valves features a single handle for adjustments. The temperature and water flow is controlled by the same handle, just like a mixer tap. With a manual shower valve, you are bound to adjust the temperature each time you use it because there is no separate handle for turning on/off the water supply.
Note: - The manual shower valves do not compensate for the change in water temperature. There are many water taps open around the house. During such situations, the water coming out from the showerhead may become either too hot or too cold. As such, a manual shower valve puts forward a greater risk of getting thermal shocks. This is why manual shower valves are not suitable for households with children. - Design and Colour : Shower valves come in a vibrant variety of shades.
Also, the same are available in a wide variety of designs ranging from the basic no-frills to models supporting exotic builds.
Some of the shower valves are even tailor-made to fit with a particular bathroom décor.
Doesn't matter what kind of bathroom or bathroom décor you are having, there is always suitable shower control valve options available to fit perfectly as per your bathroom styling. - Size : Shower valves are available in a wide array of sizes.
As luxury shower systems come in many different sizes, different shower valves are available to perfectly match the size configuration.
You need to choose the right sized shower control valve that can suit perfectly in your bathroom space as well as the shower system you've employed. - Budget : Budget is a very important factor that helps in narrowing down your search for the perfect shower valve as per your needs.
There are several shower valve makes, which vary according to the price-tag.
The price of a shower mixing valve depends on several factors, such as functionality, build and appearance.
Shower valves with extended warranties feature a price-tag somewhat a bit more expensive than the ones covered with basic warranties.
But, shower valves with extended warranties are best for getting peace of mind when it comes to their operation.
Moreover, there are several low-quality shower control valves available that cost merely a fraction of a good shower valve price.
These shower valves could get broken easily and might even be faulty to use.
Hence, it's better to avoid purchasing shower valves with super-cheap price-tags.
How to Mount or Replace a Shower Valve
The process of installing a shower valve or replacing an old shower mixing valve with a new one isn't much complicated, especially if the pipes are made from copper or plastic.However, if your house have galvanized steel pipes that are too old, then you should seek professional help for installing the shower valve.
The process of replacing a shower valve consists of 2 separate phases: (1) Removing the shower valve and (2) Installing the new one. Each of these steps, that will help you to accomplish the task of replacing a shower valve or installing a new on, are elaborated below:
a. Removing the old shower valve
For removing the old shower valve, you need to follow some simple steps.
Following is a step by step instruction on how to remove your old shower valve:
- Remove the Handle – The first step in uninstalling the old shower valve is to remove its handle. In most of the shower control valve units, a screw is present beneath the cap of the shower valve handle. You simply need a screwdriver to remove the screw from its place. An Allen wrench may be required by some shower valve makes, in order to remove the screw. Once the screw is remove, then the handle of the shower valve can be easily removed.
- Remove the Escutcheon Trim Plate – After removing the handle of the shower mixing valve, you will see a couple of screws holding the trim plate. Use a screwdriver for unscrewing them. Once these are removed, you will be able to remove the escutcheon trim plate by simply pulling it off. In the case where there is a caulk present around the plate, you need to remove it so that the trim plate can be removed. You can use a utility knife for removing the bead of the caulk.
- Make a Hole for Accessing the Shower Valve – In the third step, you need to make a hole for removing the shower control valve. Expand the size of hole only if the shower valve isn't able to come out of it, otherwise keep it as small as possible.
- Remove the Old Shower Valve – Depending upon the shower valve model, the last step in removing the shower valve might vary. You have to determine the way with which the shower valve needs to be removed. In one instance, you may have to cut the old shower valve out. For doing so, you can use a copper tubing cutter or a mini-hacksaw. Make sure that the water supply is completely turned off before removing the shower control valve from its place.
b. Installing the New Shower Valve
After you're finished with removing the old shower valve, use a sand paper to clean off solder and burs from the copper pipes.
Afterwards, follow these steps to install the new shower valve:
- Separate the Shower Valve – First of all, you need to remove the housing and plastic cartridge enclosing the shower valve. This is done in the aim of preventing these units from getting damaged during the soldering process. Once you're done installing the new shower valve, you need to put the cartridge back to its original location.
- Make Necessary Adjustments – Depending on the model of your shower valve, adjustments may or may not be required. If adjustments are to be made with the shower mixing valve, then do it before putting it in the wall. Make sure that capping is done properly. Follow instructions mentioned in the shower valve manual for soldering copper.
- Put the Shower Valve in its Position – Positioning the shower control valve inside the wall may become difficult sometimes due to the restrictions imposed by the shower valve space. So, it is advised to do the positioning carefully so that you do not drop the shower valve inside the wall. You can tie a thread or wire with the valve. This will help to recover the shower valve in case it falls down inside the wall space.
- Soldering the Shower Valve – You need to be alert while completing this step to avoid starting a fire. It is advised to keep a water spray bottle or fire extinguisher with you while you solder, especially if this is your first time with soldering. While soldering, focus your mind only on one joint at a time and avoid doing it in flurry. Make sure that the solder is done properly around the joint. Use a mirror to inspect whether the back portion of the joint is done correctly or not.
- Let Solder Cool down – Let the solder and pipes cooldown properly before reinstalling the cartridge. Turn on the water supply and check if there are any leaks present in the shower valve. Also, check the shower riser for leaks.
- Finish up – Screw the trim plate and install the handle back to its place. Make sure all the screws are secured tightly in their respective places.
Thermostatic Shower Valves Explained
Were you ever thinking about how nice it would be when you wake up in the morning and you can get a relaxing hot shower?There are many different valves existing on the market and before you choose the type of the shower mixing valve you want, you first need to know what even exists on the market and what features do you want for yourself.
You have many different combinations available from simple and basic shower slider rail kits to fixed shower heads, body jets, massaging jets etc.
Twin Shower Valve
When it comes to twin shower valves we are talking about controls for a single shower function.You can get an overhead shower or small slider rail kit. You can only get one and not both at the same time.
If you want both at the same time, this model is not for you.
If you decide for twin shower valve you will get 2 handles and the first one is for controlling the temperature and the second one is for controlling the flow of the water.
Twin Shower Valve With Diverter
IF you decide to get a twin shower control valve with diverter you will get a device which enables to switch water from one shower function to another.For example you can switch from overhead shower to smaller slider rail kit.
You have two handles included. The first one is for controlling the temperature and the next, the second one, is for controlling the diverter and that means you switch the water between two shower functions.
Triple Shower Valve
Triple shower valve is made to supply two shower functions like overhead shower or smaller slider rail kit and important is that both showers can be turned on and working at the same time.We have three handles; the first one is for temperature controlling and the las two handles are flow controls.
Triple Shower Valve With Diverter
You can also get a triple shower control valve with diverter.Triple means that valve can supply three shower functions (overhead shower, small slider rail kit and body jets).
You have three handles included; one is for controlling the flow, second is a diverter which is able to switch water flow between two functions and the last one is for controlling the temperature.
Concealed Or Exposed?
You have two options you can have your valve concealed or exposed.Having it concealed means that your valve has all the working parts hidden so you are not able to see them.
They are usually hidden behind the wall. If your valve is hidden you can easily achieve a clean and fresh look.
Other option is to have your valve exposed and that means you have all the working parts of the valve visible and that can also make a really nice feature.
The decision is all yours, it depends on what you prefer.
The Benefits Of Thermostatic Valves
There are a few things which are very beneficial if you are having a thermostatic shower valve like they allow you to set the temperature by yourself, the valve is maintaining the flow, it is great if you are having smaller children or older people in your family etc.Now that you know what does even a specific valve do, and you have already chosen the shower you want, it is time to buy the valve too. When it comes to valves I would say it is better to invest a little bit more money and get little bit more high quality valve, because in that case the valve will last longer. I would highly recommend the purchase of thermostatic valves because they have so many benefits which are great for all the family.
On a final note, we can say that shower valves enhances shower quality and offers protection against thermal shocks and scald burns. Moreover, these shower system accessories are highly functional and are available in a wide variety of makes and models. It is necessary to buy a shower valve that best meets all your needs and requirements of controlling the shower water. By keeping all the important factors mentioned in the guide in your mind, it will become convenient for you to choose and buy the ideal shower control valve. Replacing and installing a shower valve is an easy task for most of the shower valve makes. Follow all the steps and instructions mentioned in the guide carefully to avoid hassles and; have a great showering time!