The majority of the shower valves in residential homes are manufactured by Moen Incorporated. Moen is a faucet and fixtures brand owned by Fortune Brands Home & Security and is headquartered in North Olmsted, Ohio.
Moen produces a broad range of residential and commercial shower valves including single- and dual-handle control valves as well as shower mixing valves and tub spouts. Moen offers a lifetime warranty on all its faucets, fixtures and shower valves, guaranteeing dependable performance and customer satisfaction.
Which shower valve is the best?
As different valves may be better suited to different needs and preferences. However, some factors to consider when selecting a shower valve include ease of installation, quality of materials, and compatibility with your existing plumbing.
Additionally, you may want to consider the type of valve you’re looking for, such as volume control valves, pressure balance valves, or thermostatic mixers. Many people also look for valves that come with temperature memories or come with a variety of stylish finishes.
Ultimately, the best shower valve for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
How do I find the manufacturer of my shower valve?
If you would like to find out the manufacturer of your shower valve, there are a few steps you can take.
First, inspect the valve itself to check for any visible identification. Many shower valves will have a manufacturer name etched or stamped into the metal. If you are able to find that information, it should give you the name you need.
Secondly, if you can’t find any visible markings on the valve, you can try searching on the internet for the brand name. Many shower valves will have model numbers written on them, and you can enter that information into a search engine to narrow down your search results.
Thirdly, if you’re still unable to find the manufacturer of your shower valve, you can ask a local plumbing supply company or reach out to the store you bought the valve from. They should be able to help you identify the manufacturer.
Finally, you could also consult with a local plumber who should be able to identify the manufacturer. They may also be able to provide you with additional parts or advice on what kind of replacement valve would best suit your needs.
Are shower valves brand specific?
No, shower valves are not brand specific. Generally, modern shower valves are designed to be universal and fit most shower fittings and existing models. This means that you will typically be able to find shower valves compatible with your existing installation, even if you don’t have the same brand that was originally installed.
However, some types of more unique shower valves may be brand specific, so it’s always good to double check before you make your purchase. Additionally, when installing a new shower valve, it’s best to consult a professional plumber to ensure the valve is compatible and installed safely and properly.
What are good shower brands?
When it comes to choosing good shower brands, there are many to choose from. Some of the most popular brands include Moen, Delta, Kohler, American Standard, Grohe, Hansgrohe, and Hansa. Moen is known for its variety of styles, offering everything from contemporary and modern units to classic traditional designs.
They also provide an abundance of features such as temperature control and water-saving options. Delta showers are also known for their quality and stylish designs, featuring a range of finishes, flow rates, and shower heads.
Kohler is a popular choice for those looking for combinations of sophisticated looks and leading-edge technology. American Standard offers a variety of contemporary and traditional styles and features, while Grohe focuses more on modern styling.
Hansgrohe and Hansa also provide unique and contemporary designs that are perfect for any shower space. Each brand offers something unique, and there are numerous price points available to fit any budget.
What shower faucets do plumbers recommend?
Plumbers typically recommend shower faucets with a pressure balancing valve, such as those with a Moen Posi-Temp valve or Delta dillere. This will ensure consistent hot and cold temperatures, pressure and isolate the flow of water between two outlets.
Plumbers suggest installing shower faucets with ceramic disc cartridges or compression valves. Ceramic disc cartridges offer very slightly lower water emission performance, but provide long term reliability and consistent performance.
Compression valves are also long lasting, but they require you to replace the cylinder washer if it wears or breaks.
Choose a shower faucet with a finish that will stand up to the humidity of the bathroom and won’t tarnish. Popular finishes for shower faucets include brushed nickel, polished brass, oil-rubbed bronze and chrome.
Finally, check for ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant models that feature a single-lever handle. The single-lever handle makes it easier to change the water temperature, allowing you to keep the handle in one position.
It also helps to require less strength when turning it on and off. If you have children at home, a single-lever shower faucet is a great option for safety.
What is the most reliable water shut off valve?
When assessing the reliability of a water shut off valve, you should consider several factors. The materials used in its construction, such as brass or stainless steel, can affect its longevity. The handle design is also important, as it should be easy to use and sturdy.
Additionally, the sealability of the valve is also important; for maximum reliability, a valve should form an airtight seal on the pipe where it is installed, ensuring that no water can leak through.
One of the most reliable water shut off valves available is the Apollo 70-100 Series Water Pressure Reducing Valve. This valve is made of high-quality brass, and has a solid handle that is easy to turn.
Its double O-ring system provides an excellent seal, ensuring that no water is able to slip through. The valve is also designed to meet the requirements of ASSE 1001 safety rating. It is capable of withstanding temperatures ranging from 33 to 180 degrees Fahrenheit, making it an excellent choice for many applications.
Which is better pig valve or cow valve?
The choice between a pig valve or cow valve for a replacement heart valve will depend on the individual’s circumstances, lifestyle and preferences. While both valves offer a successful long-term option to replace a diseased or damaged heart valve, considerations should be made for both types of valves.
Pig valves, typically derived from the small intestine of a pig, have a high resistance to infection. Many people with pig valves will not require anti-coagulation therapy, and many do not typically require further treatment such as valve repairs in the future.
Furthermore, they are often preferred by the elderly or those with weakened immune systems.
Cow valves, typically derived from the pericardium of a cow, are generally more resistant to calcification, which can occur later in life with a pig valve. This can minimize the need for further valve replacement over time.
Furthermore, cow valves can be a great choice for younger people as they are more capable of adjusting to changes in blood pressure and flow.
In conclusion, the best valve for an individual’s unique needs and preferences should be considered carefully. Both pig and cow valves present long-term advantages, with potential limitations, and should be discussed with a cardiologist.
Which is better thermostatic or pressure balanced?
The better option between thermostatic and pressure balanced valves depends on your needs and preferences.
Pressure balanced valves maintain a consistent temperature by keeping an even ratio between hot and cold water. This means that water temperatures remain consistent, even when other fixtures in the house are flushed or the supply pressure to the shower fluctuates.
Pressure balanced valves are more affordable than thermostatic valves and are often easier to install.
Thermostatic valves are more complex than pressure balanced valves, and they come with a higher price tag. They maintain even water temperature by adjusting both the hot and the cold water inputs while you shower, which means that you don’t have to worry about the temperature dropping when someone in the house flushes the toilet or when there are changes in water pressure.
If you’re looking for an option that is reliable and easy to install, then a pressure balanced valve might be the better choice for you. However, for a more luxurious shower experience with a more consistent temperature, then thermostatic vales could be the best option.
Ultimately, it depends on your specific needs and budget.
Where do I find my shower valve model number?
When trying to locate your shower valve model number, it is important to first try and locate the manufacturer. Many modern showers often have the name of the brand on the valve itself, or listed on the inside of the shower instruction manual.
If this is not the case for your shower valve, you can often locate a model number or serial number on the valve casing. This may include a barcode or an alphanumeric code. If none of these can be found, it is possible to locate some manufacturer information from the manufacturer’s website.
It is possible to supply the manufacturer with any relevant images to help them identify the product.
How do you know which shower cartridge to buy?
When shopping for a shower cartridge, it is important to know the make and model number of your shower in order to purchase the right part. This can usually be found on the manufacturer’s label inside the cabinet door, or on the back of the control valve.
Once you know the make and model number of your shower, you can purchase the correct shower cartridge from your local hardware store or online from a website that specializes in plumbing parts. Most cartridges are threaded and should match the threading of your existing shower, so it’s important to make sure that the one you buy has the correct threading.
Additionally, some shower heads are integrated with a single cartridge, while others have separate valves for hot and cold water. If you have separate valves for hot and cold you will need to purchase a cartridge for each.
It is also important to check whether your shower was manufactured before or after the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as shower valves manufactured before that time might be incompatible with cartridges purchased after that date.
Finally, check the warranty of the cartridge you are buying to make sure it is compatible with manufacturer or store warranties.
How do I identify my faucet manufacturer?
Identifying your faucet manufacturer can be done in a few different ways. First, take a close look at the faucet itself, as it should have some type of manufacturer’s mark or logo. This is usually stamped into the metal or shown somewhere on the handle.
If you are unable to find any type of manufacturer’s mark or logo, then you can use the model number of the faucet to research who made it.
Most faucets have a model number stamped or printed on them. This can usually be found either in or near the valve box, or on the underside of the handles. If you are unable to find the model number, you can usually look it up in the installation instructions that came with the faucet.
Once you have the model number, try searching for it online. This should provide a result that indicates who manufactured the faucet.
If online searches yield no results, call a local plumbing supply store or the manufacturer’s customer service number to get more information. Make sure you have the model number handy, as they will need it to provide you with any details about the faucet.
Are shower valve cartridges universal?
No, shower valve cartridges are not universal. Each shower valve is unique and has their own specific cartridges that will be compatible. This is why it is important to make sure that you get the correct cartridge for your specific shower valve.
Generally, most valves will offer at least two types of cartridges, a single handle cartridge and a dual-handle cartridge. The single handle cartridge will be used for single handle faucets, while the dual-handle cartridge will be used for two-handle faucets.
Additionally, even within a certain brand of shower valve, there can be small variations from model to model. Therefore, it is important to determine the correct model of shower valve you have before purchasing a cartridge.
To do this, you can usually locate the manufacturer’s label nearby the valve, or look up the cartridge number found on the existing cartridge. This will help you to ensure that you find the correct replacement cartridge.
What are the three types of shower valves?
The three main types of shower valves are compression valves, cartridge valves, and ceramic disc valves.
Compression valves are the most common type of shower valves, and they consist of two handles that control water flow and temperature. They’re typically found in lower-priced showers and tubs.
Cartridge valves are a bit more sophisticated than compression valves and are more expensive. They have a single handle but are capable of controlling multiple functions, such as turning the shower on, adjusting the temperature, and controlling the water’s flow rate.
The third type of shower valves are ceramic disc valves. They’re the most expensive and sophisticated option, and they provide precise temperature control, instantaneous response time, and effective water flow management.
They’re usually found in high-end showers and tubs.
How do you replace an old shower valve?
Replacing an old shower valve requires some specific tools and a basic understanding of plumbing. To start, shut off the water to your shower and then open the shower valve to relieve any pressure. Next, remove the existing valve to access the plumbing connections.
This may require removing the tub surround or tile. Once the old valve is removed, bring it to the hardware store to purchase an exact replacement, as the new valve must fit perfectly into the existing fittings.
You’ll need the following tools:
-Socket and ratchet
-Adjustable wrenches
-Teflon tape
-Putty knife
-Screwdriver
Install the new valve by wrapping threaded connections with Teflon tape and securing them with adjustable wrenches. When the new valve is in place, reconnect the hot and cold plumbing lines to the valve and wrap the connections with Teflon tape.
Then, quickly turn the water back on to test whether the connections are tight.
Following the manufacturer’s instructions, attach the trim, handle, and escutcheon plate to complete the installation. If necessary, clean up the area by removing any caulk, grout, or putty. Lastly, check all the connections to make sure they are adequately sealed, and turn the water back on to test your new valve.