Buying the first brand you find online is not always a good idea. It goes to every product you want to purchase and that includes the best shower valve. You need to dedicate some time and gather enough information about the product you are interested in buying including the manufacturer, materials used and a lot more.
Top 5 Best Shower Valve Reviews
Last update on 2024-04-23 at 17:18 PST - Details
Delta R10000 Shower Valve – Highly Recommended
The Delta R100000 is made in the United States and is one of my favorite shower valves. I am impressed with the exciting features that this thermostatic shower valve possesses. This valve is very versatile.
If you are looking for an advanced system that lets you alter the function, look, and style of your shower, the Delta R10000 is what you need. The best thing about this product is that you can make the changes without interfering with the plumbing behind the bathroom wall.
This shower valve accepts dual and single thermostatic cartridges. Because of its high level of versatility, it is very compatible with most plumbing. Thus, I considered this as one of the best shower valves in the market today.
The Delta R10000 has a brass body, the most durable materials for any bathroom accessories. This makes the valve very durable that will surely last longer. Even if the Delta is available only as a valve body, you will not have any difficulty finding compatible trims as most of the sponges and screws are available in hardware stores.
Other great features include back to back installation capability. It means that you can easily install it back to back, but you need to reverse the cartridge on one in order to prevent pipes from crossing.
If you need to repair your bathroom faucet, I highly recommend this Delta R10000-UNBX. Not to mention, this unit is easy on your pocket with a limited lifetime warranty.
We like
- Changing fixture is easy. It does not require behind-the-wall plumbing changes
- Back to back ability
- Brass construction
- Accepts dual, single, or dual thermostatic cartridge
We do not like
Cartridge not included in the package
KOHLER K-304-KS-NA Shower Valve – Second Best Shower Valve
The Kohler K-304 is the perfect fit for your back to back installation with unique look and impressive finish. This pressure balancing valve is temperature controlled and it works in various ways.
You can easily set an optimal comfort zone. Thus, it will work continuously without any issue. The valve has a special high-temp limiting feature that ensures you will never get scalded in the shower.
Its diaphragm design prevents freeze-ups that cause water contamination and debris. The plumber will thank you for picking this valve because it does not require them to install separate fittings. Also, its universal connections won’t require you to add more parts to install the valve.
The Kohler K-304 has a flow rate of 175 gpm. If you need to repair the shower valve, simply turn off the water supply using the integrated screwdriver stop assists. For better installation process it has mounting tabs located on the rough-in.
I considered this valve as my second best because of its temperature controlling feature. It gives me a peace of mind that nothing will happen to me in the shower room.
We like
- Easy to install
- Convenient temperature regulation
- With screwdriver stop assists for easy repair
- Body craft of reliable longevity
- Elegant design and finish
- Maintains water temp with +/-3 degrees Fahrenheit
We do not like
- No color options
- Valve trim sold separately
Moen 2570 Rough-In PosiTemp Pressure Balancing Shower Application
Moen is a brand popular for its plumbing supplies, showerheads, garbage disposal, faucets, and a lot more. It sets the standard for innovative design, exceptional beauty, and reliability. The Moen 2570 lets you make updates any time without the need of replacing the plumbing.
It has the PosiTemp technology to help maintain water temperature. This valve is equipped with Stops to deliver generous water flow. If the water reaches the maximum temperature, the valve has four-port, cycle valve that keeps the temperature from rising.
Its 1222 cartridge can accommodate back-to-back installation. The body is very durable since it is made of brass. The Moen 2570 valve complies with the ASSE performance and has a limited lifetime warranty against drips, finish defects, and leaks.
The valve is compatible with Moen M-PACT valve system. This system lets you upgrade the look of your faucet without the need of altering the plumbing. After installing the valve, you can easily change your trim kit any time. The changes can be done in front of the wall by just untwisting your current trim and lock the new trim into place.
The Moen 2570 is heat resistant because of its durable metal construction, so you are assured of many years of performance.
We like
- Maintains water temperature with its PosiTemp feature
- Upgrading the system is easy with its easy to twist valve system
- Middle price range
- Pressure balancing control
- Four ports and durable brass construction
- Back-to-back installation feature
- ASSE performance compliance
- ½ - inch CC connections with ¼ turn stops
We do not like
Replacement cartridge is expensive
Moen 8373HD Commercial Posi-Temp Valve
Moen 8373HD is a commercial PosiTemp made of brass that is reliable and very durable. Although it is much expensive compared to the plastic valve, it is worth because it possesses a lot of amazing features. Its PosiTemp valve maintains the pressure of the water flowing from the faucet. This means you will not get blasted with a strong flow of water or have a slow drip.
Just like the three products I mentioned earlier, this shower valve has an adjustable temperature that regulates the hotness and coldness of the water coming out of your faucet. It is made of metallic and stainless-steel materials for added durability.
This amazing valve conforms to the ASME requirements. The Moentrol valve with graphite composite spools and PosiTemp of this valve along with Moen Eco-performance showerheads complies the performance requirements of temperature and pressure variation of ASSE1016. This product includes a 5-year warranty on manufacturing defects and materials.
We like
- PosiTemp maintains the right flow of water
- Solid structure
- Very durable
- Conforms ASME requirements
- Eco-performance showerheads
- 5-year warranty
We do not like
Does not have a flat back
KES K1140B Shower Valve
This KES K1140B is a brass o valve designed for specialists. It has changed the way you take a shower for the appropriate motives. You might take a longer time in the shower and this user-friendly valve should be blamed because of its impressive features users really love.
This shower valve will provide a fun and enjoyable shower. This single-piece brass body can be utilized as water saver or turn off valve with the quarter-turn simple operation. You will not have a problem finding the right trims as this fits the majority shower arms and heads.
With KES K1140B top performance, you will appreciate a valve material of heavy duty brass which is known to last longer. This shower valve has ceramic disc cartridge with a polished chrome finish which makes it anti-corrosive. The 4.3 x 4.3-inch faceplate valve is perfect for your water system at any bathroom.
We like
- Easy to use for effortless flow and controlling the temperature
- Durable and high-quality faceplate
- Easy to install in your bathroom
- Rough-in faucet designed from high-quality brass
- Easy to install in your bathroom
We do not like
Does not include instructions for installation and basic plumbing
Buying Guide and Helpful Tips
I have listed down my top 5 best shower valves based on my experience and what my friends have told me about their experience with each shower valve. Just like on The Best Garage Heater review, I have conducted some research aside from personal experience and found out that they are the best in the industry in 2018. Some of you may not agree with my list, so I added this buying guide to help you out on selecting a shower valve.
Reasons for Buying a Shower Valve
Shower valves like pressure balancing models and thermostatic models function well particularly in controlling and maintaining the water temperature of a shower.
Some models are constructed to help transfer, direct or re-direct the water flow from the showerhead to the tub faucet. In the case of a handheld showerhead, the latter is likewise true.
Most of the time, you will require a shower valve to replace your shower faucet. Many people choose them since they provide better showering experience. It’s because it can control the temperature thus you are assured you will not get scalded while taking a shower. The valve can also control the flow of the shower water. As a result, a rejuvenating and refreshing shower.
Types of Shower Valves
There are three popular types of shower valve – the thermostatic mixing valve, pressure balancing valve or a diverter valve. Below are facts and info of each type:
Pressure Balancing Type
This is probably the most popular type of shower valves. Most US households have this type of shower valve. This valve maintains water temperature. It can keep the constant ratio between hot and cold water.
Pressure balancing type uses a diaphragm or a piston with ball-bearings. The bearings react to changes in the pressure of hot and cold-water pipes. If the pressure falls in a flushing toilet, the valve will still control the flow of hot water, so you do not get scald in the shower. To balance, the cold-water flow is reduced, and the overall pressure maintains the shower temperature.
Thermostatic Mixing Shower Valves
This type of shower valve functions by controlling water temperature. Most of the time, the temperature is controlled at the pre-set level. The best feature of this kind is that you can easily turn on the shower and wait for the water temperature to achieve its pre-determined temp. This feature will eliminate the task of experimenting with hot and cold shower faucets.
You can choose between manual or electronic thermostatic mixing shower valves. Manual valves use a heat-sensitive material like wax to control water temp. The wax expands as the water temp increases and controls its flow.
On the other hand, in the automatic balancing form, the hot water makes its way in and the wax will start to shrink. This allows hot water to keep a steady balance.
Diverter Shower Valves
This is the least common among the three types of shower valves. The valve works by altering the water flow. Diverter valves can divert water in one direction. For example, you can divert the water from your bath faucet or showerhead. A transfer valve lets you run water from different outlets. The perfect diverter shower valves can run shower using a handheld head, horizontal sprayers or showerhead.
Tips for Choosing the Best Shower Valve
The things you can consider on buying a shower valve is not at all extensive unlike in choosing the best bathroom heaters. You can use your instincts in deciding. But I carried out my own research and come up with some factors that could help you in choosing.
Performance
The thermostatic model can switch the flow of hot water once the temperature hits a certain level. On the other hand, the manual valve will require you to experiment. Also, it is the solution for losing cold water when pressure drops.
The Number of Controls
Shower valve can be classified based on the number of controls they possess. It may range from one to three. A valve with different controls is better in maintaining and controlling shower water temp. This is due to the greater degree of fine controls. For example, a shower valve with a single control can regulate the amount of cold water, hot water, and pressure. The one with three controls have first control to manage temperature, the second control regulates pressure and the third changes the outlet used.
The Number of Outlets
This feature also matters when buying a shower valve. A model may have one to three outlets. The single outlet valve is very limiting when it comes to the scope of what it can do. The three-outlet valve is very versatile. You have the option to choose whether to use the handheld shower outlet or the fixed shower head or the body jets.
Design and Material
Choose a shower valve with solid, leak-proof structure. The capability of the valve to resist leak is the first determinant of its quality. Choose a valve that is well-sealed and has a solid structure. The material used in making the valve is yet another vital consideration. Most shower accessories are made of brass, plastic or soldered metal. In my opinion, brass is the best material. Make sure the material you choose will not tarnish, rust or corrode. It is a sign of durability and prevents water pollution.
Handle
Most shower valves are available as kits. The package includes the trim, valve body, handles, and other accessories. Handle matters a lot since it will determine the smoothness and ease with which you will use in turning the shower faucet. The handle should be able to complement the bathroom design. The valves come in different styles and colors. It’s for you to decide.
Final Thoughts
Hope this review will help you in deciding which product will provide the best features. For me, Delta R10000 is the best shower valve. It is made of brass which is a durable material that will assure longevity. This thermostatic shower valve possesses all the features every household owner is looking for. Finding the right trim is not hard to find at all since it will fit most of the screws and sponges. So, the next time you need to replace your shower valve, consider Delta R10000 and you will not regret it.I'm so excited to tackle all my home improvement projects! From plumbing to DIY and cleaning - I'm ready to get down to work! #homerepair #homecleaning #plumbing #diy #fixerupper #realestate #renovation #interiordesign #farmhouse #diy #homedecor #hgtv #home #farmhousedecor #modernfarmhouse #farmhousestyle #fixerupperstyle #fixandflip #homerenovation #realestateinvesting #beforeandafter #homesweethome #remodel #realestateinvestor #interior #realtor #joannagaines #flippinghouses #countryliving #design #homedesign #farmhouseinspired #investmentproperty #bhghome #renovationproject #farmhousekitchen #homeimprovement #farmhouseliving #cottagestyle #decor #realestateagent #magnoliahome #homeinspo #magnoliamarket #kitchendesign #dreamhome #shiplap #construction #houseflipping #investor #farmhousedesign #architecture #farmhousechic #homereno #rusticdecor #reno #kitchenremodel #webuyhouses #magnoliatable #rentalproperty #fixerupperinspired #newhome #interiors #homeremodel
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