What are the different types of shower valves?

  • Mixing Valves. A traditional type of shower valve is the mixing valve, designed to draw water to the shower head from the hot and cold taps. …
  • Pressure Balancing Valves. …
  • Thermostatic Valves. …
  • Diverter Valves. …
  • Transfer Valves.

How do I know what type of shower valve I have?

Often, the type of shower faucet and handle(s) will indicate what kind of shower valve is behind it. Zero handles may imply a shower panel faucet with buttons to control water flow and temperature. A single-handle shower faucet controls both flow and temperature with one handle, the most common and easy-to-use option.

What is the difference between a shower valve and a shower cartridge?

Turning a conventional stem valve’s handle causes a rubber washer to compress against, or release from, a hole that supplies water to a spout or showerhead. Faucet cartridges replace the metal stems with a lightweight plastic body that turns smoothly and doesn’t require excessive turning to close.

What is a 3 way shower valve?

The three-way diverter allows you to alternate between any of your selected shower outputs by directing the water from the shower head to each additional accessory, one at a time. The diverter will not adjust the water temperature or turn the water off or on.

How much does a plumber charge to replace a shower valve?

Plumbers charge $100 to $300 for labor alone to replace a shower valve or $225 to $575 for the valve with installation. Replacing a shower valve takes 1.5 to 3 hours on average, depending on type and accessibility. Replacing a shower cartridge takes 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Can I replace a shower valve myself?

To replace a shower valve, you really need to be an experienced home improvement DIYer. To replace a shower valve is a far more complicated task than changing a showerhead. A good knowledge of plumbing is absolutely necessary to do this job successfully.

What is a 4 way shower diverter?

Four-way Diverter Valve

For instance, you could have a shower with a tub faucet, a rain showerhead, a regular showerhead, and a handheld. Using a four-way diverter, any two of these can run simultaneously, such as the rain showerhead and the handheld.

What is a dual function shower valve?

Dual function shower valves are designed to be used with two separate accessories, there are quite a few different types of dual function valves to choose from, some are fitted with a diverter that allows you to select which accessory you want to use and some are fitted with independent controls that allow both …

What is a shower diverter valve?

A shower diverter, also known as a diverter valve, is a valve that diverts the flow of water from the bathtub faucet to the shower head. Thus, a diverter valve allows you to have a shower and a bathtub in the same space.

How do I identify my faucet cartridge?

Are Moen and Delta shower valves interchangeable?

Delta and Moen valves are not interchangeable because they use different types of fittings.

How do I identify my Moen shower cartridge?

Which is better Moen or Delta?

When it comes to Delta vs. Moen faucet quality, we feel Delta offer the highest quality of the two brands. However, Delta provides their customers a lifetime limited warranty and 5-year limited warranty for the electronic parts and batteries whereas Moen offers their customers lifetime limited warranty.

Can you replace a shower valve with a different brand?

Showerhead threading is pretty much universal, you can swap one for most any other. Shower valve trim kits are the exact opposite…you may have luck by staying within a certain manufacturer, but for the most part trying to swap a trim kit onto an existing valve may or may not work.

What brand of faucets do plumbers recommend?

Sticking with Moen, Delta, and Kohler brand faucets will give you peace of mind that you have purchased a quality, long-lasting product with easily obtainable replacement parts for any needed repairs down the line.

How long do Delta shower valves last?

A properly installed shower valve should serve you well for a long time. Even if you live in an area with hard water that causes limescale build-up in your appliances, you can expect to have a shower valve work well for about four or five years.

What is better Pfister or Delta?

Pfister and Delta are two of the biggest brands in the business. Both companies offer a range of high-end faucets at not so high-end prices. Pfister faucets have a simple installation process and professional-grade faucets, while Delta provides you with a sleek, modern design.

Which is better Moen or Delta or Kohler?

Kohler is a good option if you are looking for quality and high-end features. Moen is a great choice if you want budget-friendly yet stylish products. Lastly, delta is the perfect option if you prefer modern and innovative designs.

What is the number one faucet brand?

In fact, Moen has received the Lifestory Research® America’s Most Trusted® award as America’s most trusted faucet brand for the past six consecutive years. Moen offers a variety of faucets at several price points while continuing to provide elegant design.