Shower Control Perfected: Best Shower Valve – Plumber’s Top Choice

Here’s how to find the best shower valve for your bathroom. You’ll then be able to control the water pressure and temperature, along with other functions.

Trying to find the best for your bathroom can be a real pain. That’s because there are so many of them to choose from. It would have been nice if there’s a standard shower valve for everyone, but then again at least you’ll have lots of options.

The plain truth of the matter is that not all manufacturers offer the same kind of quality with their shower valves. Some are simply shoddy, while others work well for a long time. These shower valves may also have different features that make them stand out. There are even different types of shower valves, and one may suit your needs better than the others.

What are the Best Shower Valves?

Best for Pressure Balance: Moen 2510 Posi-Temp Pressure-Balancing Cycling Tub and Shower Valve

"The Monticello PosiTemp Pressure Balancing Shower Valve delivers generous water flow. Application: Non-Potable Water, Rough-In valve | Inlet Diameter: 1/2 in | Outlet Diameter: 1/2 in | Max. Pressure: 100 PSI | Max. Working Temperature: 160 F | Valve Type: Pressure Balance | Product Weight: 1.9lb | Compatible Pipe Material: Brass"

Best for Two Handle: KOHLER K-302-K-NA Ceramic Wall-Mount Two-Handle Valve System

"Yoke reversible for either top or bottom supplies. Inlet Diameter: 1/4 in | Outlet Diameter: 1/2 in | Flow Rate: 10 GPM | Water Consumption: 10 GPM | Max. Pressure: 0 PSI | Max. Working Temperature: 0F | Connection: Sweat | Compatible Pipe Material: Brass | Product Weight: 4.7 lbs"

Best for Universal Use: Delta Faucet R10000-UNBX MultiChoice Universal Tub and Shower Valve Body

"Valve Type: Diverter Valves | Application: Tub & Shower | Inlet Diameter: 1/2 in | Plumbing Part Type: Rough-In Kit | Maximum Deck Thickness: 2.75 in | Color/Finish Family: Brass | Inlet Connection Type: Cross Linked Polyethylene | Outlet Connection Type: PEX"

Best for Shut Off: SR SUN RISE Square Manual Bathroom SRSH-5044-K

"Valve Type: Concealed Shower Valve | Material: Plastic box and brass faucet body | Pattern: 2-Function Polished Chrome | Design: Wall mounted"

Best for Rough In Shower: Pfister 0X8310A OX8 Series Tub/Shower Rough Valve

"Inlet Diameter: 1/2 in | Outlet Diameter: 1/2 in | Application: Rough-In valve | Compatible Pipe Material: Multi-Purpose | Connection: Copper Sweat | Maximum Pressure: 125 PSI | Maximum Working Temperature: 150 F | Product Weight: 2.25 lbs | Valve Type: Pressure Balance"

Best for Low Pressure: American Standard R111 Universal Inlets/Outlets

"Cast brass valve body, Ceramic disc valve cartridge, 1/2 inch male NPT and sweat inlets/outlets"

Best for Thermostatic Shower: Hansgrohe iBox Universal Leak Preventing Valve HG01850181

"Application: Non-Potable Water | Compatible Pipe Material: Brass | Inlet Diameter: 1/2 in | Outlet Diameter: 1/2 in | Connection: Female Pipe Thread | Features: Mounting Bracket Included | Maximum Pressure: 65 PSI | Maximum Working Temperature: 150 F | Product Weight: 3.3 lbs | Valve Type: Thermostatic"

Best for Hard Water: Symmons S-46-1-BODY Temptrol Pressure Balancing Shower Valve

"Type: Pressure balancing valve | Application: Non-Potable Water,Potable Water | Inlet Thread Type: N/A | Inlet Size: 1/2 in | Inlet Diameter: 1/2 in | Outlet Diameter: 1/2 in | Material: Brass | Maximum Pressure: 125 PSI | Maximum Working Temperature: 180 F | Outlet Thread Type: Copper sweat"

Best for Pex: Kohler K-8304-K-NA Universal Rite-Temp Valve

"The package includes a valve body, pressure-balance cartridge, rough-in guide, and mudguard. Single lever design cycles from off through cold to hot. One-piece cartridge design simplifies installation and maintenance. Inlet & Outlet Diameter: 1/2 In. | Maximum Pressure: 45 psi | Maximum Working Temperature: 300 F"

Best for Shower Diverter: Grohe 35015000 Grohsafe Universal Pressure Balance Rough-In Valve

"Grohe SilkMove for a lifetime of smooth operation. Application: Rough-In valve | Compatible Pipe Material: Brass | Connection: With Screws | Features: Diverter on valve | Maximum Pressure: 6 PSI | Maximum Working Temperature: 180 F | Product Weight: 3.3 lbs | Valve Type: Pressure Balance"

Best Shower Valve Comparison & Reviews

So to help you find the best, we’ve taken the effort to start you off with the top 10 shower valves you can buy for your money. We’ve taken, the most important factors into account, and that includes price. We didn’t limit ourselves to just the cheap choices, but we made sure you’d get a lot of bang for your buck.

Best for Pressure Balance: Moen 2510 Posi-Temp Pressure-Balancing Cycling Tub and Shower Valve

Moen is well-known for the exceptional quality and durability of their shower valves. It’s not uncommon for owners to replace a Moen valve after more than 2 decades of use with another Moen.

With Moen 2510, you can change the look of your bathroom that has never been faster and easier. Moen's M-PACT Common Valve System is to help you upgrade the trim style. With this valve system, you can even swap out finishes on your fixtures without replacing the valves. So once you place Moen 2510 valve in your bathroom, you can change your decor any time you want.

This is made of full brass metal, and it’s easy to install as it comes with installation manual. Its 1222 & 179107 cartridge also accommodates back to back installations. All it takes is a few minutes. Best of all, the M-PACT Common Valve System is as easy to install as a standard valve.

This also has the Rough-In Posi-Temp Pressure-Balancing Cycling Tub and Shower Valve that helps maintain both water pressure and water temperature in the shower. That’s due to the adjustable temperature control for the valve so you can control the maximum hot water temperature of the shower to avoid thermal shock.

As this is a Moen, it’s designed to last for a very long time. In fact, it even comes with a limited lifetime warranty. So you won’t have to immediately buy another one if you have a problem with it dripping, leaking, or having defects in the finish.

This is a valve that’s installed behind the scenes. Many like it as the shower faucet valve that’s especially made for a Kohler faucet. This is extremely durable because it’s made of brass metal, and you can expect it to last for many years to come. Unlike other valves with too much plastic, this is all brass and ceramic.

Its water flow Rate is 10 GPM that is good enough for a classic shower.

You won’t have to repair it all that often either. You won’t have to worry about debris as it is built up with ceramic valve. That’s very reassuring, as it can handle hard water issues with no fuss.

This also features 1-piece ceramic valves. The handles are ergonomically shaped so they’re more comfortable to turn. In addition, you can turn the water on and off with just a quarter turn of the valve. When you’ve turned the valve, it stays where you set it.

Just make sure you’re buying from the right seller. You may end up getting used valves instead.

Best for Universal Use: Delta Faucet R10000-UNBX MultiChoice

Best delta shower valve

It’s not snobbish when you prefer things made in the good ol’ US of A. That’s because you can trust the quality control standards here. That’s not always the case in some countries, especially the ones where the labor rate is so low. With this Delta shower valve, you get a product that’s made right here in the USA. This universal single box model is complied with ASME A112.18.1 / CSA B125.1.

But it’s not just its manufacturing origin that makes this a high-value shower accessory. It’s because it’s a truly innovative system that lets you make fixture changes to the shower head or tub faucet without changing the plumbing system in the walls. That saves you a lot of trouble, time, and effort. So now you can change the functions of the valves and handles, or make changes to the look of the shower, without any fuss.

You can also test this valve with water pressure of 300 PSI without using supplied test cap.

The versatility allows for single, dual, or dual thermostatic cartridges. Along with the appropriate cartridge you also get the screws and sponges you need for easy installation (at least for a plumber). It’s also capable of back-to-back installation. It’s made of brass, so durability isn’t an issue at all.

Just so you know, the installation process is explained quite well in the instructions that come with the valve. However, it may require soldering and that’s not easy for everyone. So get a plumber, who’ll find this easy to install.

Moen 8373HD Commercial 1/2-Inch PEX Posi-Temp Valve

Best Moen Shower Valve

This is made from brass and not plastic, so it’s much more reliable and more durable too. Yet it only costs a few dollars more than a plastic valve, and that means it offers a lot for your money.

This Posi-Temp valve is all about maintaining the pressure of the water constant. That’s so you’re not blasted with a harsh jet or suffer a weak drip when other people in the house use the toilet or the laundry machine.

It can also help with the temperature as well. It allows you to adjust a temperature control so that you don’t inadvertently turn the temperature too hot for your liking. Shower burns aren’t all that fun.

This is quite durable, despite the 5-year warranty for material or manufacturing details. Basically, if it doesn’t break down in the next 5 years, it means it’ll last for a good long while even after the warranty period.

This is a dual function shower valve with a wall-mounted design so that you can have a nice modern-looking bathroom. While the shower body is made of brass for total reliability and long-lasting durability, the outside box is plastic. The box protects the valve body to extend its lifespan.

That makes it much better in withstanding the moisture as there’s no corrosion issue. You won’t worry about rust with the brass material either. The bass also doesn’t pollute the water, so you don’t pollute the environment. It’s good news for your skin as well.

The dual function of the valve lets you supply and mix hot and cold water to your shower head, whether it’s fixed or handheld. The valve is also made from high quality ceramic, which makes it highly resistant to high temperatures and to regular wear.

This also comes with a shower cartridge that contains a pressure balancer. This will help keep the water from getting hot enough to scald you.

You’ll find that the valve operates very easily and smoothly. Turning the valve is no problem, and even those with arthritis issues won’t find it difficult. This may surprise you, considering how solid and seemingly heavy the valve may feel when you hold it.

Pfister claims this model as their best in-wall valve so far, and it’s truly impressive. It comes with a Plaster Guard cap that you attach before the installation. This cap will make sure that you’ll have a big enough opening after the installation.

It features a new brass that’s more durable. The install depth is much more flexible, as now you can do a shallow wall installation instead. It also has a high precision spool balancing unit. There’s a plug for shower only too.

As for the durability, it’s not a concern. It comes with a lifetime “Pforever” warranty for both the function and the finish of the valve.

Having trouble with hard water? Then you need to check out this product we are about to review. This valve body won't let any mineral deposits to form. Therefore, you will have wonderful water flow. Also, it comes with an effective diaphragm system so that there's no crossflow.

I loved the model's cartridge. If you cannot stand any dripping, this is the type of cartridge you want in your valve. Also, when it comes to temperature tuning, it will do an excellent job. Moreover, the unit comes with great versatility. You will find it compatible with CPVC adapters as well as iron pipes.

Now, what about its durability? Well, a brass body isn't known to mess around, is it? Yes, this valve will pass the test of time dealing with constant water flow. Moreover, it offers a consistent water temperature even when there's a change in the supply pressure.

What's more, the unit will be resistant to scalding. And it will balance the pressure as it should. Besides, the brand has a good reputation in making those valves. You can rely on it, even if the price of the product seems quite low.

Pros

• Allows no mineral deposits from hard water
• The cartridge prevents any dripping
• Compatible with multiple types of pipes
• Consistent water temperature with no scalding

Cons

• None to mention

Let's look at another excellent product. You will find it awesomely compatible with various shower trims. Therefore, if versatility is what you want, this is the unit for you. You will also have to appreciate the low noise this unit offers. Thanks to the rubber seals introduced in it, you will find the vibration to be less.

I was also impressed with the pipe inlets of this model. They seem to be perfect for 65 psi max pressure. So, you will have an impressive regulation of water temperature with this valve body.

Moreover, it comes with a pair of inlets and a pair of outlets. Therefore, if you are looking for more than one shower function, you are game. Also, the way this unit prevents leakage is brilliant. It will seal a finished wall like nothing else.

Now, installing this valve isn't that complicated if you know the basics. However, it will be nice to seek help from a professional. You will find the unit getting along with various walls with different depths.

I was also impressed with the water flow it provides. No matter how many outlets you have in your bathroom, the valve head will provide sufficient water for all of them. Therefore, if you have a modern bath with all sorts of outlets, it's time you purchased this excellent valve.

Pros

• Compatibility with multiple shower trims
• Brilliant in sealing walls and preventing leakage
• Sufficient water flow for numerous outlets
• Easy installation of the valve

Cons

• The Service Stops come open

This pressure balancing valve comes with a cast brass body, so that should assure you of its quality and durability. Actually, its construction uses brass, bronze, and stainless steel. Its design allows it to be prefabricated without the need to disassemble the valve, so there’s less room for error.

If that’s not enough, then it should be reassuring to know that it’s made in the USA, right here in Braintree, Massachusetts. That should convince you that’s it’s made to high standards. If even that’s insufficient to assure you of the quality, there’s also the limited lifetime warranty for residential use.

This is safe to use for water-conserving shower heads, so those who want to limit their shower water use will like it. It also prevents the dangerous change in temperature that can happen to your shower water when someone flushes a toilet. The temperature limit stop can be fine-tuned to fractions of a temperature degree.

However, this is just the valve. It doesn’t have the outside trim. You’d have to buy that separately.

This is a Kohler valve with the matching trim for all Kohler faucet lines. So if you have a Kohler faucet line, then when it comes to fit this will be the best Kohler shower valve for you. 

The new KOHLER K-8304-K-NA sets new standards for ease of installation and application versatility. For simplifying your plumbing project, Kohler is really selling the most superior bath hardware.

This is a temperature control valve, and it works in several ways. This allows you to set an optimal comfort zone, so you can have it working constantly to maintain the water temperature you like. Also, you have a hard high-temp limit stop that makes sure you never get scalded in the shower.

The latest pressure-balancing technology delivers accurate and reliable temperature regulation and automatic anti-scald protection for enhanced showering comfort. The diaphragm design on this valve also keeps freeze-ups from ever happening, which can result from water debris and contamination.

The plumber will thank you for choosing this, as the fittings on the valve inlets let you crimp the tubing directly on to the valve with no need to install separate fittings. Its compact design provides maximum flexibility in tight applications, such as a back-to-back installation. It is also flexible for future changes or upgrades. The universal connections also won’t require additional parts to install this valve.

The Germans sure know all about engineering and manufacturing don’t they? The quality of this valve is undeniable, as it showcases Teutonic attention to perfection. This valve comes with the unique “SilkMove” design that ensures smooth valve operations for a lifetime of use.

What this is, is a way to guarantee that you won’t ever have to get the shock of your life when the water temperature changes while you’re taking a shower. Now you can’t be punked by someone flushing the toilet when you’re in the shower.

This gives you a wide comfort zone that lets you to regulate the water temperature gradually and precisely. No more sudden water temperature changes, in other words.

Proflo PF3001CLS Pressure Balancing Tub and Shower Valve with Stops

This is a cast bronze valve that lets you adjust the water pressure as well as the temperature. It meets (or exceeds) the anti-scalding ASSE 1016-P standards so you know for a fact that the water won’t ever get too hot for you.

Plumbers will also love the fact that it comes with a plaster guard that can be removed quickly, while the brackets are easy to mount. The 1-piece cartridge design also makes it easy to maintain. With its brass and ceramic construction, this will last you for a very long time.

So what’s the catch? Well, it does seem like ProFlo made the mistake of making too few of these and the demand for it was too great. That’s why it’s not easy to find, even online. It’s often unavailable.

Shower valves haves several different functions, depending on the type of valve you get. Its main function is to regulate the amount of water that comes out of the shower head. You can then open the valve at a level to dictate how much water flows out. Some valves can even make sure the water pressure is constant no matter what.

Some valves have the added function of also regulating the temperature of the water that comes out. This valve mixes the hot and cold water, and the mix will determine how hot or cold the water will be when you shower.

Of course, you can’t ignore the aesthetic value of these valves. If you get a nice-looking valve, then your bathroom looks much nicer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a rough-in valve?

It's the component of a shower that connects it with the cold and hot water lines. And it usually has four ports: two inlets and two outlets.

What is the standard height for a rough-in valve?

It should be 28 inches high for a bathtub shower and 48 inches tall for a shower stall.

What are the types of rough-in valves?

There are pressure building valves and thermostatic valves we see most commonly. Also, there are diverter valves and transfer valves available on the market.

Can you use a particular type of valve in any shower system?

No, you can't do that. The shower system and the valve need to be suitable for each other. Therefore, it's preferred that the valve and shower system are of the same brand.

What is the role of a diverter valve?

There are two types of diverters. These are plate diverters and diverter valves. It directs the water flow to either the showerhead or the bathtub spout. So, with such a valve in place, you can have the water flow in either of the outlets, never in both of them at the same time.

Conclusion