To replace a two handle shower valve, you will need to turn the water off to the shower valve. After the water is shutoff, you will need to unscrew the cap screws in the handle and remove the handle.
Then use a basin wrench to loosen the stem, so you can grab it with pliers and unscrew it from the faucet. Next, use a measuring tape, screwdrivers and a wrench to remove all the screws attaching the valve to the wall.
Finally, use new mounting hardware provided with the valve to affix the new valve, connect the water lines and install the handle. Make sure to reconnect the handles to the valve stem with the screws first and then place the handles onto the stem.
Then, once all your connections are secure and the hot and cold lines are connected properly, turn the water back on to the valve, check for leaks and turn the handles to make sure the water is running correctly.
Before replacing the handle screws, make sure everything is leak proof.
How do I know what two handle shower valve I have?
To determine what two handle shower valve you have, you will need to inspect the valve body. If your shower has a knob to turn the water on, but the knob has 2 separate handles and 2 separate faucets, then you have a two handle shower valve.
The two handles are for hot and cold water. If you look at the shower valve body, you should be able to identify the brand and model number. The brand and model number should be etched into the handle or printed on the valve body.
You can then use this information to determine which two handle shower valve you have. If you are unable to identify the brand and model, you may need to consult a plumber or shower valve manufacturer.
Can you replace shower valve without removing tile?
Yes, it is possible to replace a shower valve without removing tile. This can be done by first turning off the main water supply. Next, the old valve should be removed, starting by unscrewing the hot and cold water supply pipes.
The entire valve assembly will then separate from the tile. To install the new valve, insert the screws back into the new valve and secure them with the supplied screw cover. Line up the valve and secure it to the wall.
Replace any access plates, and attach the hot and cold water supply pipes with the supplied compression rings and nuts. Once the new valve is installed, turn the water supply back on and test the valve.
If everything works, it can then be caulked around the valve to secure it in place.
Can I replace a shower valve myself?
Yes, it is possible to replace a shower valve yourself, although it is generally recommended that you leave any plumbing project that requires major fixtures to be replaced to a professional. When replacing a shower valve, there are numerous types and styles available, so it is important to make sure that you buy the right one to fit your existing shower.
Additionally, it is quite complex to replace a shower valve as it involves turning off the water supply and disconnecting copper and plastic pipes from the valve. There is a risk of water leaks or other malfunctions, no matter how careful you are with the installation.
Therefore, it is strongly recommended that you seek help from a qualified professional for a shower valve installation job.
How much would a plumber charge to replace a shower valve?
The amount that a plumber will charge to replace a shower valve will vary depending on a few factors, including the type of valve being replaced, the geographic location of the job, the size of the job, and how labor-intensive it is.
Generally, a plumber will charge between $150 and $400 for replacing a shower valve, with higher end jobs and jobs that require more complex valves being more expensive. Additionally, the plumber will typically take into account any additional costs, including the cost of the new valve, the cost of materials, and their hourly rate when calculating the final cost.
It’s important to get an estimate from a plumber before the job is done so that there are no surprises once the job is complete.
When should a shower valve be replaced?
Shower valves should be replaced when they have become corroded over time, when the water pressure has become inconsistent or weak, if you are experiencing leaks or other water damage due to a fault in the valve, or if the handle or knobs of the shower valve are no longer working properly.
It is also important to replace a shower valve if it is no longer compatible with the rest of your shower fixtures (for example, if you are replacing the showerhead, but the existing shower valve is incompatible with it).
Ultimately, it is important to keep an eye out for any signs of wear and tear and make sure to replace the valve when needed to keep your shower downstream in good working order.
How often do you replace shower cartridge?
The frequency of replacing a shower cartridge depends on a few factors, including the condition of the cartridge, the frequency of use, and the age of the shower. Generally, you should replace a shower cartridge either every three to five years to protect from wear and tear, or when it becomes damaged.
Additionally, if you notice a leak coming from the cartridge, you should consider replacing it sooner rather than later in order to avoid any further damage to the shower.
How do you replace a shower faucet without the access panel?
It is possible to replace a shower faucet without the access panel, but it requires a bit of effort and know-how. The first step is to turn off the water supply to the shower completely. Then, use a wrench to loosen and remove the shower valve and its mounting hardware.
Once the valve has been removed, you can see the piping behind the wall. To access these pipes, you will need to cut an access hole in the wall behind the shower, large enough to reach the pipes.
Once the access hole is finished, all the old plumbing will be visible. Before removing any of the old parts, take photographs or make a diagram of how everything is connected, so you can easily reassemble it.
Unscrew the old faucet and pipe fittings, then clean out the area and replace with the new parts. Depending on the type of faucet, you may need to use special sealant when connecting the new parts.
Finally, once everything is connected, reattach the shower valve to the wall, turn on the water supply, then reattach the shower head and handle. Check for leaks and make sure everything is secure. If done properly, this will give you a working shower faucet without the need of an access panel.
What are the different types of shower valves?
There are four common types of shower valves, each with a different application.
The first type is the compression valve. This valve has a handle and is used to turn off the hot and cold water. When turning the handle, compression is applied to the valve stem which closes the valve and shuts off the water flow.
The second type of shower valve is the ball valve. This valve has an exterior handle and a lever connected to a ball inside the valve. The ball is surrounded by springs, allowing it to close and open the water flow when the lever is turned.
The third type of shower valve is the cartridge valve. This valve has two or three cartridges which can be rotated to regulate the temperature and flow of water.
The fourth type of shower valve is the thermostatic valve. This valve has a knob or lever which controls the temperature of the water. It is often used to make sure that the water is kept at a certain temperature.
Each type of shower valve has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to consider your needs before deciding which type is best for you.
What type of shower valve do I have?
The type of shower valve you have likely depends on when your home or bathroom was constructed. The most common types of shower valves are compression valves, cartridge valves, and ceramic disc valves.
Compression valves are the oldest type of shower valves still used today. They use two handles, each connected to a rubber gasket and brass washers, which are compressed together to stop or release the flow of water.
These valves are often easy to identify because of their two handles and their tendency to drip or leak after frequent use.
Cartridge valves are the most popular option for newer and remodeled bathrooms. These valves only require one handle that must be turned left to increase the temperature and right to reduce the temperature and adjust the water flow.
Unlike compression valves, they are designed to self-regulate if the pressure of the water system fluctuates.
Ceramic disc valves are the most modern type of shower valve. Unlike other types of valves, they are equipped with two ceramic disc pieces connected by a spindle. Turning the spindle allows the user to change the temperature without having to adjust the water flow.
While more expensive than the other types of valves, they are known to be the most reliable and are increasingly becoming the go-to choice for new builds.
To identify the type of shower valve you have, you can take a closer look at how it is installed. Compression valves will have two handles, cartridge valves will have a single handle, and ceramic disc valves are recognizable by their two ceramic discs.
If you are still unable to identify the type of valve you have, you can contact a professional plumber for assistance.
How do you install a Moen shower faucet?
Installing a Moen shower faucet is a relatively straightforward task that can be done by most homeowners. The instructions should always be followed exactly, as diverging from these instructions could lead to an incomplete installation, which could result in water leakage and other problems.
Here are the recommended steps for a successful shower faucet installation:
1. Shut off the water. Before beginning any plumbing project, make sure water is turned off and the pipes are drained of water.
2. Prepare the pipes. Unscrew the old faucet and joints, and carefully clean the piping. Rust, debris, and mineral deposits should be completely removed.
3. Install the valve seat. Secure the valve seat securely inside the wall using the anchors provided. Connect the plumbing lines with water supply tubing to the shower faucet.
4. Secure the supports. Attach the provided support brackets to the wall and attach the shower valve escutcheon plate to cover up the pipes and mounting brackets.
5. Connect the shower valve. Follow the installation instructions to properly attach the valve to the support brackets.
6. Mount the escutcheon plate. Attach the provided escutcheon plate to the wall to cover up any exposed parts.
7. Connect the handles. Attach the handles to the stem of the shower faucet using the screws and nuts that came with the kit.
8. Turn on the water. Turn on the water and check for leaks before using the faucet.
Following these steps should result in a successful installation of your Moen shower faucet.
Are all Moen shower valves the same?
No, not all Moen shower valves are the same. Moen offers a wide range of valve models that come in many sizes and shapes, as well as a variety of finishes and styles. Each type of Moen valve is designed to work differently and has its own specific features.
For example, the Posi-Temp valve is designed to allow you to adjust the water flow and temperature quickly and easily. The M-PACT valve is designed to make it easier to replace components without having to access the plumbing behind the wall.
Additionally, Moen valves come in many forms, including the True Thermostatic Valve which features an anti-scald technology, and the ExactTemp Valve which features a digital screen that allows you to control the exact temperature of the water.
No matter which type of Moen valve you choose, you can rest assured that it will provide you with years of reliable operation.
How do I adjust the water temperature on a double handle shower valve?
Adjusting the water temperature on a double handle shower valve is relatively simple, but you’ll want to make sure the valves are turned off before you start. Locate the handles of the shower valve and identify which is for the hot water and which is for the cold.
To adjust the temperature, rotate the handle for the hot water in a clockwise direction to increase the water temperature and rotate counter-clockwise to decrease it. Depending on the type of valve, you may simply need to rotate it a few notches, or you may need to turn it several times in either direction.
Once you have reached your desired temperature, you can turn the valves back on and enjoy your perfect, warm shower!.