Kyle TuckerThe odds are that either Moen or Delta manufactured your shower valve. These two companies are the two most popular choices when it comes to shower-related products such as showerheads, cartridges, and valves.
Perhaps you are remodeling your bathroom or upgrading your shower system. You might be wondering, are shower valves interchangeable? Could I use a Moen valve with Delta products or vice versa?
The valve is usually not given the consideration it deserves as the faucet, showerhead, and handles receive the most attention. But without the proper valve, none of these other parts would work.
This article will answer some of your questions regarding which shower valves should be used with Moen or Delta products. With a deeper understanding of which shower valves are compatible, you can create a shower system that performs better and lasts longer while avoiding mixups that can waste money and time.
Are Shower Valves Interchangeable?
Shower valves are not interchangeable. When you buy a shower valve kit, everything is compatible and made by the same manufacturer. They are sold this way because many shower valves made by the same manufacturer are not compatible, let alone another company’s valve.
So you cannot use a Moen valve with Delta products. To use the other companies valve, you’d have to replace the entire system with compatible products, including the shower cartridge. And unless your valve is very old, damaged, or otherwise malfunctioning, it is usually not worth it to replace your entire shower system.
Although, there is the Delta universal valve. You can upgrade or change your shower to any other type of Delta shower trim or product with the universal valve. But the Delta universal valve does not work with Moen products due to the kinds of fittings each company uses. So instead, Moen has a somewhat similar product called the M-Pact common valve system that allows you to upgrade your system with other Moen M-Pact products.
What Shower Valves Are Compatible With Delta?
Unless you are going with one of Delta’s universal valves, you should be mindful of the valve kit you choose as it will determine the shower trim pieces available to you. Below are a few of Delta’s best shower valves.
This shower valve is universal and is one of Delta’s top sellers. There are many versions of this model, including the PX, which works with PEX plumbing, and the UNBXHF which is for showers that lack bathtub faucets. This valve is known for its easy installation while being a high-quality yet low-cost item and is compatible with most Delta trim kits.
The R22000 is considered a universal valve, yet it is only compatible with three of Delta’s trim packages. While these three trim kits are quite popular, you have many more options with the R10000. But the R22000 has some additional features and is made of brass instead of copper, and costs more than the R10000. Yet if the trim you desire is compatible with this valve, it is a great choice.
What Shower Valves Are Compatible With Moen?
While Moen’s M-Pact system does not give you as many options as Delta’s universal valve, Moen products are known to be a bit more durable and long-lasting when compared to Delta. Ultimately, you will get a better product with Moen but will be limited in your trim choices as each valve is only compatible with certain trim pieces.
Moen’s Posi-Temp series covers many different valve models that accommodate many different needs, from PEX or copper plumbing to different bathroom setups. Posi-Temp Valves are made of brass and are quite durable and easy to install. There are even Posi-Temp M-Pact valves that allow you to upgrade your shower system, giving you some flexibility.
One of the most popular valves in the M-Pact series is the 3510 model. This valve uses the Moentrol feature that allows you to control the volume and temperature of the water. You get a durable brass valve like the Posi-Temp but with a few additional features at a comparable price. With this valve being part of the M-Pact series, you can upgrade to any compatible M-Pact trim.
FAQ
No, these two companies’ faucet sizes and connections are different and would not fit one another. On the other hand, showerheads are universal as they all use the same size connection.
Moen and Delta may be the most popular brands, but they do not possess a monopoly over shower products. Kohler is a brand giving Delta and Moen a run for their money, with Grohsafe and Mixet being other viable options.
