Delta Vs. Moen Shower Valves: Which One Is Better?

For the perfect shower, you need the right shower valve. The valve helps control the water flow and temperature of your shower. They are a convenient tool that lets you upgrade your shower experience without messing with your plumbing.

In this guide, we’re doing a side-by-side comparison of Delta and Moen shower valves.

Delta valves are an affordable option that is easy to install. However, Moen valves are more durable and made with higher-quality materials. Both brands are highly praised by homeowners and plumbers. They both add luxury and improve your shower experience.

Delta and Moen valves are the two most popular shower valve brands, but which one is right for your home? Let’s dive into our comparison so you can decide for yourself.

Valves are installed directly behind your wall, and they attach to your hot and cold water lines. Next, the valve has an interchangeable cartridge that controls the mixture of hot and cold water.

The cartridge connects to external trim handles, which allows you to change the temperature with the faucet handles. When you have a high-quality valve, you can get the exact temperature you want every time you take a shower.

Along with temperature, valves can also control water flow. Some can create a wave-like water flow while others create a rainfall effect. Essentially, high-quality valves can improve your whole shower experience. Let’s dive into which product is best between the Delta and Moen valves.

Let’s start with the Delta shower valve. With all of their products, Delta is leading in high-tech technology. Homeowners also like this brand because it is high-quality and affordable, which isn’t always easy to find.

Delta shower valves are made out of brass metal and plastic. Their most popular option is the universal valve.

Delta shower valves are easy to install and they secure firmly with a mounting bracket. Additionally, they are lightweight, so they don’t rock back and forth. Some models also include a heat-resistant cap that lets you test the water pressure and temperature before installing it.

The Delta valve comes with three connection types: IPS, PEX, and Universal. No matter what kind of plumbing you have, this valve will fit.

It’s also important to note that the Delta valve has three innovative cartridge options. The single-pressure balance function valve controls the temperature only. It balances hot and cold water to guarantee the right shower or tub temperature every time.

Next, the dual-function pressure-balanced valve cartridge controls both the temperature and water volume. You can control them independently, which means you can have a consistent temperature even as you change the volume.

For the most precise temperature control, the newest cartridge option is the dual-function thermostatic valve cartridge. This is the high-tech innovation that we were talking about.

This cartridge automatically measures your water and adjusts the hot and cold outputs to achieve the exact temperature you want. You can rely on having the same temperature shower and shower, and you can still control the volume with this cartridge.

Next, let’s look at the Moen shower valve. This brand is a pricier option, but it is still a customer favorite. Instead of plastic, it’s made with mostly brass metals, including zinc and copper.

This is the primary reason it’s a more expensive valve, but it will also last longer. Moen shower valves also resist rust and corrosion. If you’re looking for strength and durability, the Moen valve is the better option.

Like the Delta valve, the Moen valve lets you change your shower type without dealing with your plumbing. It’s also easy to install if you know what you’re doing, and it maintains a strong water pressure.

Now, let’s do our side-by-side comparison so you can understand the main differences between Delta and Moen valves.

Both valves get great reviews; however, some homeowners complain that the Delta valve weakens their water pressure. On the other hand, the Moen valve is known for superior water pressure.

However, Delta valves have more high-tech functions, like the Spot Guard, which helps keep your shower clean from residue.

As a whole, Delta also offers a wider selection. The variety of cartridge options is a good example of this. Delta is all about versatility and utilizing the latest gadgets.

Both valves create a different shower experience. The Delta valve adjusts your water into a wave-like flow. It gets positive reviews for the full coverage that it offers. Moen shower valves can create a rainfall experience, which many homeowners find luxurious.

Related Questions

How often should I replace my shower valve?

Depending on the brand you went with, the body of your shower valve should last for decades. However, the cartridge inside of the valve will need to be replaced more often.Shower valve cartridges should last for up to two years, but you may need to replace yours before that. If your shower is leaking, that’s when you know it’s time to replace the cartridge. If you leave it leaking for too long, mold and mildew can grow.

Why is my valve shaky and/or leaking?

It is probably not installed correctly. We advise calling a plumber to professionally install your valve for you. When it is installed correctly, it should not shake or leak.

Can I use replacement parts from other brands?

No. Shower valves are not universal. If you buy a Delta universal shower valve, you need to buy Delta cartridges and replacement parts. The same rule applies for Moen and any other shower valve brand.