I always had some issues with my regular shower valve because, most of the time, I find myself struggling to get a relaxing shower. Sometimes the water becomes too hot, and sometimes it’s just bland and cold.
The decision to get one of the best thermostatic shower valves is something that made my bathing regimen blissful. Not only the flow of water remains steady, but also the temperature remains constant, and it doesn’t require me to struggle with the knob.
Do you also hate juggling with your regular shower valve because it is not doing what you want? Well, you can go through these thermostatic shower valve reviews to bid goodbye to all the hassles you have been facing since now.
Here is a comparison table as well, so you can spot the exact differences between these thermostatic shower valves to make a better purchase.
Thermostatic Shower Valves Comparison Table [2023]
Best Thermostatic Shower Valve Reviews
1. Delta R10000-UNBXHF
With Delta R10000, you can eliminate the hassles of plumbing. The square plaster guard makes it easy to install the thermostatic shower valve. You will get the ultimate flexibility of upgrading the style of your bathroom at any time as you can use any cartridge and trim with the valve.
The high-quality brass will reward you with a decent lifespan, and there is no need to worry about corrosion. With Delta R10000, you can expect a steady flow of water with constant temperature, and that is what you can expect from a quality thermostatic shower valve.
What I liked the most about this thermostatic shower valve is the ease of upgrading with the newly launched trims. You can replace the trim at any time to make sure that you are up with the modern designs, without plumbing again and again.
The package only contains a shower valve, and there is no knob available with it, so you have to purchase it separately. Moreover, Delta offers a range of single-function and dual function thermostatic handle controls, and you can choose the one as per your requirements.
This thermostatic shower valve is what your bathroom needs if durability and reliability are your priorities. Delta offers a Limited Lifetime Warranty* with the shower valve so you can rest assured that you are backed up by satisfactory customer service provided by a brand like Delta.
- Square plaster guard makes installation easier
- High-quality brass body
- Versatile
- Compatible with a range of Delta thermostatic handles
- No trim and cartridge available in the box
2. MOEN 2510 Brass Posi-Temp Valve
MOEN 2510 is a popular choice among homeowners that need a durable and long-lasting thermostatic shower valve. You can use any faucet with the valve, so you can get a stylish one to complement the décor of your bathroom. The body of the valve is made using brass to eliminate the chances of corrosion and rust.
This is a one-time fitting thermostatic shower valve with a diverter, and then you can rest assured that it will deliver you with considerable longevity. Also, the shower valve comes with a balancing valve that will keep the pressure steady, no matter what.
There are multiple faucets available in the market, which are compatible with MOEN 2510, and you will not get limited options. Installing this thermostatic valve can be a bit tedious, but it is equally rewarding as you will get the best mix of flow and temperature while bathing.
Moen offers a limited lifetime warranty* with this valve, which means excellent customer assistance whenever required. Moreover, the shower valve comes equipped with a 1222 cartridge that easily accommodates the faucet, and you will get a leak-free installation.
Lastly, the shower valve complies with the criteria of ASSE performance requirements, which makes it ideal to use with hot and cold water supply.
Overall, Moen 2510 is a viable option if you want to eradicate the hassles of leaking and dripping from the valve. There are no accessories available with the valve, so you have to spend some more money to get the faucet that works with it.
- Durable brass body
- Works with the faucet of your choice
- Balancing valve keeps the pressure steady
- Allows to predetermine hottest water setting during installation
- Installation is a bit challenging
- No accessories available
3. Hansgrohe 15763001 Thermostatic Trim
Here is an exposed thermostat shower valve from Hansgrohe that looks stunning and is easy to use. The smart control knob will help you in adjusting the temperature on the go. Also, there are two buttons available, and you can turn on/off the dedicated showers whenever you need them.
The manufacturer has used high-quality plastic to manufacture the plate trim, so you will get an excellent experience with this shower valve. Also, it is easy to clean, and a wet wipe is enough to remove all the dust and stains.
You can remove the trim plate anytime to access the service stops for timely maintenance. The best part about this Hansgrohe thermostatic shower valve is the availability of the anti-scald button. If you choose Hansgrohe 15763001, then you can be rest assured that there will be no issues of scalding from now.
The control knob is handy, and you can even control the temperature while bathing. I was amazed by the durability of the trim plate. Though it is made using plastic, it can resist dents, mineral accumulation, and any type of vibration while you are showering.
There is no need to get a separate trim or valve as the plate comes with a control knob and shower control buttons along with an anti-scald button.
To sum up, Hansgrohe 15763001 is what you need in your modern bathroom to make it even more stylish. Your kids and parents can also learn to use it, as it involves no rocket science at all. Additionally, the product comes backed up by a limited lifetime warranty*, so getting it for your bathroom would be a fair deal.
- Premium looks
- Anti-scald button
- Easy temperature adjustments
- Available in two finishes
- A metal trim plate would be better
- Expensive
4. Grohe 34150003
I am a huge fan of minimalism, and this thermostatic shower valve is what you need in your bathroom if you adore minimalism too. This is a thermostatic bar valve, and it is evident by its looks. The metal grip handle allows you to adjust the temperature as per your requirements.
This shower valve will protect you against scalding as it comes with a SafeStop feature that gets active as soon as the water temperature reaches 100 degrees F or 38 degrees C. You can save gallons of water with Grohtherm 1000 with the help of the eco button.
Moreover, the Grohe thermostatic shower valve comes with backflow protection, and the pressure will remain steady even if someone is using hot water in any part of your house.
This shower valve is perfect for bathrooms of all sizes. There is no need to get a separate trim as your valve comes with two handles required to adjust the flow and temperature of the water. Grohtherm 1000 doesn’t require you to install it inside the wall, and that makes the installation process even easier.
In a nutshell, if you need a handy shower valve without compromising your budget, then Grohtherm 1000 is what you need! This shower valve has got some essential features like scalding protection and has a scratch-resistant finish, so it will look like a new one provided that you follow a cleaning and maintenance regimen.
- Consumes less space
- Excellent aesthetic value
- Saves water
- Metal handles
- Parts are hard to find
5. Moen S3102 Thermostatic Valve
You will be astonished to know that now you can control a shower mixer with your verbal commands! Well, Moen S3102 is a digital shower valve, and you need a digital shower controller to enjoy using it with your phone, voice, or through the controller.
The device even supports Alexa, and you can imagine how easier your life will become after installing it in your bathroom. You will get all the necessary equipment inside the box, including the cable, adapter, and digital controller.
You can install it anywhere inside your bathroom, including in the cabinet, as the shower valve is compact in size. There are two models available i.e. two outlets and four outlets. You can choose the required model to install in your bathroom.
The easy to read LCD screen makes it even more straightforward to adjust the temperature. You can connect Wi-Fi with the shower valve to start using Alexa voice assistant with it.
When it comes to durability, then this twin thermostatic shower valve won’t disappoint you. The digital shower valve comes with filter screens that can block debris. Thus, the water dispensing outlets will remain functioning all the time.
Overall, Moen S3102 is a smart digital shower valve that has got some brilliant features. If you want to control the shower temperature without struggling with the trim knobs, then S3102 is what you should get. This is a value for money smart thermostatic valve that comes with a 30-feet long data cable for ease of installation.
- Works with voice assistants
- LCD screen
- Easy to install
- Versatile compatibility
- Pricey
- Requires an AC outlet
6. Kohler K2975KSNA Master Shower Thermostatic Valve
When it comes to top thermostatic shower valves, then Kohler is the only choice for thousands of buyers. The reason why K2975KSNA is a highly selling valve is its durability, and promising lifespan. You will get an extraordinary showering experience with Kohler K2975KSNA due to its versatility and design.
The innovative shuttle design offers a consistent flow of water at a steady temperature. You need to buy the trim separately to adjust the temperature and pressure. Kohler has calibrated the maximum temperature to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, so there will be no scalding at all.
The valve is made using solid brass, which makes it ideal for installation inside the wall. The threads of this shower valve merge with the pipelines perfectly, and there is no need to worry about leaking and dripping issues.
The max flow rate supported by Kohler K2975KSNA is 17.2 GPM, which is perfect to use with multiple shower heads, including rain showers that require more flow of water. You can choose from a range of Kohler trims compatible with the shower valve, but that will add a lot to the overall cost.
Kohler offers limited lifetime warranty* with the thermostatic shower valve, and the built-in temperature calibration makes it ideal for installing in the bathrooms of your kids and parents.
In my opinion, Kohler K2975KSNA is a smart choice! If you want to use the trim accessories of your choice, then you can get this concealed thermostatic shower valve. However, the valve has no protective finish on it, but the solid brass body is enough to cope up with corrosion.
- Offers precise flow and temperature
- No issues of scalding
- Compatible with multiple trims and faucets
- A bit pricey
- No faucet available with the valve
7. Hansgrohe 04230000 S Thermostatic Trim
If you want an individual handle to control the temperature and flow of water, then this thermostatic shower valve from Hansgrohe should be your choice. The trim plate looks very stylish and comes with two handles for the ease of controlling the flow and temperature.
You can remove the trip plate anytime to access the flow stops for cleaning and servicing. Also, there is an anti-scald button available, so you will never encounter a steamy hot shower again in your life. Installing Hansgrohe 04230000 S is easy and doesn’t require a plumber.
You will get a complete instruction manual inside the box, and you can follow it to install the valve correctly. Hansgrohe has used plastic to manufacture the trim plate. It can resist corrosion, chemical accumulation and is easy to clean, so maintaining it won’t be a hassle for you.
There are multiple shower accessories compatible with this shower valve, and you can select from a variety of handheld wands, and rain showerheads. Hansgrohe 04230000 S is available in two color finishes i.e., Chrome, and Brushed Nickel, so you can choose one based on what will suit your bathroom the most.
To sum up, Hansgrohe 04230000 S is an affordable thermostatic shower valve that comes with an elegant trim plate and two handles. Moreover, the anti-scald button will prevent scalding issues, and you can enjoy a relaxing bath every day.
- Affordable
- High-quality trim plate
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Lesser noise and vibrations
- No diverter functionality
Best Thermostatic Shower Valve Buying Guide
The only way to shop for the best thermostatic shower valves is by checking a list of essential factors that can influence the performance of the valve. Here are some critical things you should know about a thermostatic shower valve before placing your order.
What are the Different Types of Shower Valves?
There are multiple types of shower valves available in the market, and a thermostatic shower valve is one of them. Check out these other types of valves for better knowledge.
1. Diverter Valves
Diverter valves are ideal for directing the flow of water to various areas in the bathroom, including the bathtub and the showerhead. There is a single control handle available, and you can rotate it on either side to get the water flowing through different faucets.
2. Transfer Valves
A transfer valve is perfect if you want the water to flow through multiple outlets simultaneously, including showerhead, handheld wand, and through tap. Transfer valves are a bit expensive because of their versatility and build-quality.
3. Thermostatic Valves
Thermostatic shower valves can maintain both the flow and temperature of the water. These shower valves contain a thermostatic element that is responsible for adjusting the flow of hot and cold water. There is a control dial available with thermostatic shower valves, and you can use it to adjust the temperature of the water.
You can even choose a thermostatic valve that allows adjusting the volume of water coming out of the showerhead.
4. Mixing Valves
A mixing valve is what you will find in old homes. These valves have two ends connected with a hot and cold water supply. With a mixing valve, you have to rotate the knob to get an ideal water temperature for bathing.
However, the downside of the mixing valve is that the temperature of the water can change suddenly. Also, the pressure doesn’t remain steady, so you have to struggle with the knob to maintain the temperature of the water.
5. Pressure Balancing Valve
A pressure balancing shower valve or mechanical valve is the most common type found in homes. With this shower valve, you will get the right balance of water, which is neither too cold nor too hot. The valve contains a piston-like thermostatic valve that adjusts the flow and temperature of the water.
Generally, pressure-balancing valves come with a single control handle, and you can use it to regulate the temperature of the water.
Thermostatic vs. Pressure Balance Valve
When I first heard of a pressure balance valve, I thought that it was another name for the thermostatic valve because of the presence of the piston. But there are some significant differences that make thermostatic and pressure balance valves different.
Control Handle
With a thermostatic shower valve, you will get two knobs or handles destined to regulate the flow and temperature of the water. You can adjust the flow of water while keeping the temperature constant, and it is one of the biggest advantages of thermostatic valves over pressure balance valves.
On the other hand, there is only one control handle available with pressure balance valves. You can use the handle to adjust the temperature and pressure, so it becomes hectic to maintain the right balance of temperature and pressure.
In short, a thermostatic shower valve makes it easier to set an ideal temperature without affecting the flow of water.
Water Conservation
Thermostatic shower valves are perfect for saving gallons of water every day. You can reduce the flow of water while shaving or shampooing, so there will be less wastage of water. But this is not the case with pressure balance valves.
A lot of water gets squandered, so you have to pay more on your water bills with a pressure valve as compared to a thermostatic valve.
Scalding Protection
Scalding is a common problem with a pressure balance valve, and if you are using one, then you cannot agree more with this statement. Thermostatic shower valves come equipped with advanced scald formation, so you will never face a steamy hot shower again in your life.
Overall, a thermostatic shower valve turns out to be a better option as compared with a pressure balance valve. However, pressure balance valves are initially cheaper. But when you see it in the long run, then a thermostatic valve is a good option to go with.
What are the Benefits of Thermostatic Shower Valves?
The benefits offered by a thermostatic shower valve were enough to convince me to get one installed in my bathroom. Here are the benefits you will get by switching to a thermostatic valve.
1. Superb Safety
With a regular mixer valve, there is a possibility of scalding, as these valves don’t keep the water temperature constant. And steamy hot water can lead to a lot of skin and hair troubles, along with causing burning sensations.
With a thermostatic valve, the temperature of the water will remain steady, so there will be no issues of scalding.
2. Ease of Installation
Thermostatic shower valves like Delta R10000-UNBXHF are easy to install. There is no need to schedule a plumber to install it for you when you can do it on your own. In short, you can save some more money with a thermostatic shower valve by opting for DIY installation.
3. Ultimate Convenience
Thermostatic shower valves come with two knobs, one for regulating temperature and one for pressure. You can use the knobs based on your convenience.
Whether you need hot water with less flow, or more pressure without raising the temperature, you can do it right with a thermostatic shower valve.
Also, you can keep the temperature knob set while turning off the pressure of water, so there is no need to set the ideal temperature every day, as it is already set for you.
4. Economical
Installing a thermostatic shower valve is beneficial for your pocket too! You can reduce the flow of water anytime when required. As a result, you can conserve gallons of water every day.
Just rotate the knob to limit the flow of water, and you will see a significant difference in your water bills after installing a thermostatic shower valve.
Things to Consider While Buying the Best Thermostatic Shower Valves
The benefits offered by a thermostatic shower valve are convincing enough to make anyone buy them. But before you place your order, here’s something you should know. Your experience will depend on the type of thermostatic valve you have decided to purchase.
You should consider some essential factors to make sure that you are going with the right thermostatic valve for your bathroom.
1. Type of Thermostatic Valve
There are three types of thermostatic valves available out there, and you can choose one of these depending on your requirements. The significant difference between these thermostatic valves is the shape and installation.
The three types of thermostatic valves are:
- Bar valves
- Concealed valves
- Exposed valves
All the valves have different aesthetics, so your bathroom will look different. Check out these different types of thermostatic valves for a better idea.
2. Temperature and Control Knobs
Another essential thing is the temperature and control knobs. Most thermostatic shower valves come with two knobs so that you can regulate the temperature and pressure simultaneously. Check the material used to manufacture the knobs so that you can rotate the knobs even while taking a shower.
Also, you can look for the pre-set feature so that you can set the right temperature for your everyday bathing regimen.
3. Ease of Installation
I am not a plumbing nerd, so I planned to buy a thermostatic shower valve that is easy to install. You will get a detailed instruction manual with these valves, so installing them won’t be a pain in the neck. However, some concealed thermostatic valves have a tedious installation process as you have to cut the wall to install the valve with the pipeline.
4. Brand
It is indispensable to buy a thermostatic shower valve that belongs to a renowned brand in order to expect durability and excellent after-sales service. All the thermostatic valves listed in this article are branded and are perfect for all types of bathrooms, including conventional and modern ones.
5. Additional Accessories
Some thermostatic valves come with all the required accessories like the plate and the control handle, so there is no need to buy anything. On the other hand, some valves have no accessories available with them, and you have to spend more to buy these essential accessories to complete the installation.
You can check what’s included in the box to avoid any afterward hassles of searching for accessories that are compatible with your thermostatic shower valve.
6. Budget
The price of thermostatic shower valves varies depending on some factors like the type and the brand. I had a moderate budget, and I am pretty happy with my thermostatic valve. It would be best to make your budget before you start shopping for these valves.
FAQs
Q1: Are these Best Thermostatic Shower Valves worth the Money?
Unquestionably yes! Buying a thermostatic shower valve is worth every single penny as the device will prevent problems like scalding. Also, you can get the ideal temperature for bathing while keeping the flow steady and consistent.
Many thermostatic valves let you use the trim of your choice, and you can make your bathroom even stylish with them. In a nutshell, getting the best thermostatic shower valve is worth the money, and you can save some extra bucks if you get a valve like Grohtherm 1000 that has Eco mode.
Q2: Which is better than a Thermostatic Shower Valve with two Control Handles or a valve with one Control Handle?
It depends on some factors like your budget and preference. Generally, controlling the temperature and flow of water is a lot easier with thermostatic shower valves that have two control handles. You get a separate temperature and flow control knob, so attaining a suitable bathing setting becomes straightforward.
With a one handle thermostatic shower valve, controlling becomes a bit tedious, and you have to master balancing the flow and temperature using the single handle. A valve with two control handles will be a good choice if you have kids and the elderly in your house.
Q3: Can I use a Thermostatic Shower Valve with Alexa? What device should I get?
If you want to make your bathroom smart just like the rest of your home, then you can get a thermostatic valve that works with Alexa. Yes, there are a few thermostatic valves available that work with Alexa.
You can get your hands on Moen S3102 Thermostatic Valve, as it is a digital thermostatic shower controller. You will get all the accessories with the valve, so there is no need to buy anything separately.
After installing it, you can connect it to the secured wireless network to use Alexa.
Q4: What is the Average Life of a Thermostatic Shower Valve?
The average life of the flow cartridge is about two years, and after that, you have to replace it. However, the thermostatic shower valve delivers a significant lifespan, and if proper care is taken, then these devices last really long without the need for any plumbing.
Q5: How can I clean my Thermostatic Shower Valve Cartridge?
Is your thermostatic shower valve not working? If you want it to last longer, then proper cleaning is the only solution. Here is a step by step process I personally use to clean the cartridge of my thermostatic shower valve.
Items you need: a pair of channel lock pliers, white vinegar, water, and a piece of cloth.
- Start with removing the trim plate and the control handle from the valve.
- Use a pair of channel lock pliers and start unthreading the cartridge from the shower valve.
- Now remove the cartridge and soak it in the mixture of white vinegar, and let it sit there for about an hour.
- After one hour take the cartridge out and rinse it with regular water.
- Fit the cartridge back in place, and put the handle and the trim plate.
- Clean the outer of the trim plate to make sure that it is squeaky clean.
Final Thoughts
Getting a thermostatic shower valve turned out to be a good decision for me, as I can quickly set the best temperature needed for the bath! Consider going through the buying guide and comparison table to shortlist the top thermostatic valve out of the list.
The best thermostatic shower valve on the list is MOEN 2510 Brass Posi-Temp Valve, as it is easy to install and is a great option if you expect durability! However, if you have a limited budget, then you can go with the Delta R10000-UNBXHF valve, which is available at a reasonable price.
