{ "id": "shower-tub-service", "version": "2026.09.10.1", "updated": "2026-09-10", "publisher": "Mountain Man Plumbing", "service_area": "Sandy and the Salt Lake Valley, Utah", "pages": { "hub": { "path": "/services/shower-tub/", "title": "Shower & tub plumbing repair", "label": "Shower & tub hub", "tag": "Repairs · Replacement · Remodel plumbing", "summary": "A shower that stays cold. A handle that won’t stop the drip. Water showing up downstairs. We repair shower valves, tub faucets and drains, and handle the plumbing when it’s time for a replacement.", "source_ids": [ "moen-handle-types", "pfister-stems", "delta-controls", "moen-cad" ], "faqs": [ { "question": "Does a dripping shower mean replacing the whole valve?", "answer": "A worn cartridge or stem assembly can often be replaced through the opening behind the handle. The condition of the valve body and availability of matching parts determine whether a repair makes sense." }, { "question": "What helps you prepare for a shower repair?", "answer": "A photo of the whole fixture, a close-up of the handle and brand, and a description of when the problem happens. Mention any water behind the wall, recent plumbing work and whether other fixtures have the same trouble." }, { "question": "Can you handle the plumbing during a tub-to-shower remodel?", "answer": "Yes. We plan the water connections, shower valve, drain and access with the remodel team, then return for the finished fixtures and operating checks. The shower base and waterproofing system need to be chosen while the drain work is being planned." } ] }, "valves": { "path": "/services/shower-tub/shower-valve-repair/", "title": "Shower valve & cartridge repair", "label": "Valves & cartridges", "tag": "Drips · Stiff handles · Temperature trouble", "card": "Understand the parts behind the handle, what makes them fail and when a repair can save the existing valve.", "summary": "The shower valve mixes hot and cold water and controls its flow. Its working parts take thousands of turns over the years. Worn seals, debris and stuck moving parts can leave you with a drip, a stiff handle or an uncomfortable shower.", "source_ids": [ "moen-leaks", "moen-1222", "moen-limit", "delta-controls", "moen-handle-types", "pfister-stems", "moen-cad" ], "sections": [ { "id": "st-handle-guide", "tag": "Handle types", "title": "Single, two or three handles?", "paragraphs": [ "A single-handle mixing valve combines both supplies in one cartridge. Older two-handle fixtures have a separate hot valve and cold valve; a three-handle tub/shower adds a center diverter. Compare their bodies and pipes in the 3D explorer above.", "Pressure-balancing and thermostatic mechanisms add protection against sudden changes in the water mix. Older separate hot/cold valves rely on your manual adjustment. Identify the valve behind the trim when choosing new controls." ], "sources": [ "moen-handle-types", "pfister-stems", "delta-controls" ] }, { "id": "st-parts", "tag": "Behind the handle", "title": "Three parts worth knowing.", "type": "parts", "intro": "Select a real repair photo to see which part is being discussed. These are Mountain Man Plumbing jobs in Salt Lake City, Midvale and Sandy." }, { "id": "st-valve-symptoms", "tag": "What changed?", "title": "Follow the symptom.", "cards": [ { "title": "Dripping with the handle off", "text": "After the showerhead finishes draining, a continuing drip points toward water getting past the valve’s shutoff surfaces. We check the cartridge seals or the older stem-and-seat assembly. Cranking the handle harder can damage those parts." }, { "title": "Wet around the handle", "text": "Water can escape around a worn stem seal, packing or cartridge seal. Removing the trim lets us see whether the water starts at the working parts or at a connection farther inside the wall." }, { "title": "Hard to turn, or spinning freely", "text": "A stiff handle can come from mineral buildup or a binding cartridge. A handle that spins without moving the valve may have worn splines—the small teeth connecting it to the stem—or a loose attachment." }, { "title": "Weak flow or the wrong temperature", "text": "We compare the shower with nearby fixtures, then check the head, both water supplies, the valve’s balancing parts and its temperature limit setting. A restriction on one supply can affect the entire mixed flow." } ], "sources": [ "moen-leaks" ] }, { "id": "st-temperature", "tag": "Two ways to control the mix", "title": "Pressure-balanced or thermostatic?", "intro": "Both designs mix the same hot and cold supplies. Their control mechanisms respond to different things.", "rows": [ [ "Pressure-balanced", "A moving spool or diaphragm responds to changes in hot and cold supply pressure. It helps steady the mix when another fixture starts using water." ], [ "Thermostatic", "A temperature-sensitive element responds to the mixed water’s temperature and adjusts the blend. Many systems have a separate control for water volume." ], [ "Temperature limit stop", "This sets how far the handle can travel toward hot. We measure the outlet temperature after service and set the stop for the specific valve." ] ], "paragraphs": [ "Moen specifies a maximum outlet temperature of 120°F for PosiTemp. We check it with a thermometer and adjust the stop after service. A comfortable bathing setting is lower." ], "sources": [ "delta-controls", "moen-limit" ] }, { "id": "st-repair-visit", "tag": "A complete repair", "title": "Fit the part. Check the result.", "steps": [ [ "Identify the valve", "We match the body and working parts to the manufacturer’s parts diagram. Brand, handle motion, screw positions and cartridge shape help narrow it down." ], [ "Service the working parts", "With the water isolated, we remove the worn assembly, inspect the body and clean out debris before fitting the correct replacement and retainer." ], [ "Run the fixture", "We check hot and cold operation, temperature, shutoff and leaks, then refit the trim and its seals." ] ], "details": [ [ "For a new technician: cartridge retention matters", "The clip, bonnet or retaining nut holds the cartridge against supply pressure. On a Moen 1222 repair, the cartridge must seat fully so its retaining clip fits correctly before water is restored. Each valve family has its own retention and alignment details." ], [ "When the body needs replacement", "A cracked or damaged body, badly deteriorated sealing surfaces, unavailable parts or a planned control upgrade can make full replacement the better job. The access route and finished wall become part of that plan." ] ], "sources": [ "moen-1222" ], "link": { "path": "/services/shower-tub/shower-tub-replacement/", "label": "Plan a valve replacement →" } } ], "faqs": [ { "question": "Can you tell the cartridge from the handle?", "answer": "The handle and trim provide clues. Some brands used similar trim on several valve families, so we confirm the body or removed cartridge before choosing parts." }, { "question": "Why is just one shower cold when the sink is hot?", "answer": "That sends us toward the shower’s hot-water inlet, temperature limit stop, cartridge and balancing mechanism. Checking the actual hot supply at the valve helps separate an adjustment from a restricted or failed part." }, { "question": "Are shower cartridges interchangeable?", "answer": "They fit specific valve families. Even within one brand, different generations can use different cartridges, retainers and trim. Matching the existing valve prevents a replacement that looks close but won’t operate correctly." } ] }, "diverters": { "path": "/services/shower-tub/tub-spouts-and-diverters/", "title": "Tub spout & shower diverter repair", "label": "Spouts & diverters", "tag": "Tub filling · Shower switching · Handshowers", "card": "Find out why water comes from the wrong outlet, why a spout leaks and what its connection needs.", "summary": "A diverter directs the mixed water to the tub spout, showerhead or another outlet. The familiar pull-up knob on a tub spout closes a gate inside the spout, allowing water to rise to the showerhead.", "source_ids": [ "moen-stacking", "moen-spout" ], "sections": [ { "id": "st-diverter-flow", "tag": "When does the water appear?", "title": "The timing tells us where to start.", "type": "diverter" }, { "id": "st-spout-fit", "tag": "Look underneath first", "title": "How the spout attaches.", "rows": [ [ "Slip-fit spout", "Slides over a smooth copper stub and uses an internal seal. A small screw underneath holds it in place." ], [ "Threaded spout", "Screws onto a threaded pipe end or a matching adapter. The thread location and distance from the wall need to suit the replacement." ], [ "Manufacturer adapter", "Some spouts fit a dedicated adapter on the pipe. The replacement must work with that adapter or include a compatible connection change." ] ], "paragraphs": [ "A loose spout needs its connection checked. Turning a slip-fit spout before releasing its screw can score the copper tube; forcing a threaded one can twist the pipe behind the wall. We identify the connection, check the stub and mount the replacement firmly at the wall." ], "sources": [ "moen-spout" ] }, { "id": "st-stacking", "tag": "A useful installation clue", "title": "Showerhead runs while the tub fills.", "intro": "Plumbers call this stacking. Water backs up toward the shower because the path to the tub spout is restricted.", "paragraphs": [ "A damaged spout gate or debris can restrict the outlet. On a new installation, the tub-drop pipe, adapters, valve orientation and outlet spacing also need a look. Moen’s tub/shower guidance specifies metal piping to the spout; a narrow fitting or the wrong tubing can change how that outlet flows.", "The tub drop is the short pipe from the valve down to the spout. We build it for the selected valve’s requirements, then run the tub and shower before closing the wall." ], "sources": [ "moen-stacking" ] }, { "id": "st-shower-outlets", "tag": "More than one shower outlet", "title": "Handshowers & transfer valves.", "cards": [ { "title": "A diverter at the shower arm", "text": "A small selector at the showerhead can send water to a fixed head or a handheld hose. The existing shower valve still supplies the mixed water." }, { "title": "A transfer valve in the wall", "text": "A separate control routes water between a head, handshower or body sprays. Its number of outlets and shared-flow positions must match the layout you want." }, { "title": "A handshower that loses flow", "text": "We check the hose for kinks, the inlet screen for debris and the selector for a restriction. Scale at the spray face can make the pattern uneven even when the upstream valve works." } ], "link": { "path": "/services/shower-tub/shower-tub-replacement/#st-layout", "label": "Plan a multi-outlet shower →" } } ], "faqs": [ { "question": "Should all tub-spout flow stop during a shower?", "answer": "A worn diverter can leave a substantial stream running into the tub and weaken the shower. Some spouts allow a small amount of bypass or drainage by design. We compare the behavior with that spout’s design before choosing a repair." }, { "question": "Can you replace only the tub spout?", "answer": "Yes, when the pipe connection is sound and a compatible spout is available. We also check for water leaking behind the spout while it runs." }, { "question": "Why does the pull-up knob drop after I shut off the shower?", "answer": "Many tub-spout diverters release as water pressure falls. That returns the outlet to tub-fill mode and lets water remaining in the shower riser drain through the spout." } ] }, "drains": { "path": "/services/shower-tub/tub-shower-drains-and-leaks/", "title": "Tub & shower drain repair and leak diagnosis", "label": "Drains & hidden leaks", "tag": "Slow drains · Tub stoppers · Water downstairs", "card": "Follow the drain and overflow, spot useful leak clues and understand what needs access below the fixture.", "summary": "A tub has a drain at the bottom and an overflow near the top. A shower collects water at its floor drain. Below them, the drain connections and a water-filled trap carry wastewater away while blocking sewer gas from entering the room.", "source_ids": [ "oatey-waste", "schluter-waterproofing" ], "sections": [ { "id": "st-waste", "tag": "Under the tub", "title": "Drain. Overflow. Trap.", "intro": "The tub drain and overflow join into one waste assembly before the tub’s trap.", "cards": [ { "title": "Drain flange & shoe", "text": "The flange is the ring visible in the bottom of the tub. It joins the drain shoe—the elbow beneath the tub—with seals that keep bathwater out of the floor cavity." }, { "title": "Overflow & gasket", "text": "The upper opening receives water as the tub fills high. A gasket seals the overflow fitting against the tub. Deterioration or a loose fit can leak when water reaches this opening." }, { "title": "P-trap & drain branch", "text": "The curved trap retains a water seal. Its outlet joins the drain branch; the vent arrangement helps protect that seal as water moves through the drainage system." } ], "sources": [ "oatey-waste" ] }, { "id": "st-drain-repair", "tag": "Water around your ankles?", "title": "Start at the drain opening.", "photo": { "file": "clogged-shower-drain-cover-west-valley-city.png.webp", "alt": "Shower drain cover before Mountain Man Plumbing’s West Valley City drain cleaning", "caption": "Our work / West Valley City", "link": "/past-work-clogged-shower-drain-west-valley-city/" }, "paragraphs": [ "Hair and soap collect around a shower strainer or tub stopper, then build farther into the trap and branch. A stopper that barely lifts can also make a tub empty slowly.", "We check the opening and stopper movement, clear the obstruction and run enough water to see how the drain handles sustained flow. Repeated backups call for a closer look at the branch. Several fixtures backing up together can point farther downstream." ], "details": [ [ "The tub won’t hold water", "A lift-and-turn, toe-touch or push stopper seals at the drain opening. Older trip-lever assemblies use linkage behind the overflow plate. We check the seal and travel, then adjust or replace the worn assembly." ], [ "Sewer smell from a rarely used fixture", "A trap can lose its water seal through evaporation. A smell that returns after normal use deserves a check for a leaking trap, drainage or vent trouble. Hair and residue at the opening can create odors too." ] ], "link": { "path": "/drain-cleaning/", "label": "Explore drain cleaning →" } }, { "id": "st-leak-timing", "tag": "The clue is when it gets wet", "title": "Trace the leak before opening more wall.", "intro": "Stop using a fixture that is sending water into the building. Tell us what was happening when the leak first appeared; controlled testing helps us find the source.", "rows": [ [ "With every fixture off", "We start with the pressurized supply pipes, valve body and nearby water connections." ], [ "While the tub or shower runs", "We separate the outlet piping, drain and splash paths, checking one at a time." ], [ "When a full tub empties", "The waste fittings, trap and downstream drain carry their heaviest flow. Watching those joints can expose a leak hidden during a short test." ], [ "When water reaches the overflow", "The overflow gasket and fitting become a key check." ], [ "When walls or the curb get sprayed", "We check trim penetrations and the enclosure’s waterproofing with the remodel team." ] ], "paragraphs": [ "Water can travel along framing before it stains a ceiling. The wet spot below is a starting clue; exposing the source may take access from the room behind the fixture or the ceiling beneath it." ] }, { "id": "st-waterproofing", "tag": "The drain meets the shower floor", "title": "One connected water barrier.", "paragraphs": [ "A tiled shower manages water beneath its tile surface. The waterproofing layer has to join the drain as a complete assembly. A traditional liner and clamping drain handle that connection differently from a bonded membrane and bonding-flange drain.", "Schluter’s KERDI-DRAIN, for example, has a broad flange that bonds to its waterproofing membrane. Choosing the drain and shower base together keeps their connection workable. During a remodel, the plumber and waterproofing installer coordinate the drain height, support and testing before tile hides the work." ], "sources": [ "schluter-waterproofing" ], "link": { "path": "/services/shower-tub/shower-tub-replacement/", "label": "Plan the replacement plumbing →" } } ], "faqs": [ { "question": "Can a tub overflow leak even when the tub drain is fine?", "answer": "Yes. The overflow has its own fitting and gasket against the tub. A leak may appear only when bathwater reaches that opening or shower spray enters it." }, { "question": "Will resealing the tile fix water leaking downstairs?", "answer": "The repair depends on where water escapes. A leaking drain fitting, supply connection or failed waterproofing layer needs work at that source. We trace the leak before choosing the repair." }, { "question": "Will you need to open the ceiling?", "answer": "Access depends on the fitting and the house layout. An existing access panel or the room behind the tub may give us a route. A trap or drain joint between floors may need a ceiling opening so it can be repaired and checked." } ] }, "replacement": { "path": "/services/shower-tub/shower-tub-replacement/", "title": "Shower & tub replacement plumbing", "label": "Replacement & remodels", "tag": "Wall access · New fixtures · Rough-in to finish", "card": "Plan valve access, trim compatibility, a new tub or shower, and the plumbing work before walls close.", "summary": "New handles, a worn valve, a new tub or a complete walk-in shower each call for different plumbing work. Here is how we plan the connections, open the right area and finish a bathroom that works as well as it looks.", "source_ids": [ "delta-controls", "moen-limit", "oatey-waste", "schluter-waterproofing", "moen-handle-types", "pfister-stems", "moen-cad" ], "sections": [ { "id": "st-access", "tag": "Choose the job", "title": "What are you changing?", "type": "project", "intro": "Start with the part of the bathroom you want to change. Each option shows what happens behind the finish." }, { "id": "st-convert", "tag": "From two handles to one", "title": "A new valve. A plan for the old holes.", "photo": { "file": "dvale-shower-repair-original-shower-handles.png.webp", "alt": "Older separate hot and cold shower handles at a Mountain Man Plumbing repair in Midvale", "caption": "Our work / Two-handle shower in Midvale", "link": "/midvale-shower-repair/" }, "paragraphs": [ "The old hot and cold bodies come out, and both supplies connect to the new mixing valve. We position the control, secure its body and reconnect the shower riser and tub drop. The finished wall sets the installation depth so the trim and handle fit correctly.", "A remodel plate can cover the old handle openings and access cut when its size and shape suit the wall. Retiling gives more freedom to move the control and restore the surface. Access from the room behind the shower can reduce the tile work." ], "details": [ [ "Choosing the new controls", "A pressure-balanced valve helps steady the mix when supply pressure changes. A thermostatic valve responds to mixed-water temperature; some systems add a separate volume control. We select the valve and matching trim together, then set and measure the outlet temperature at completion." ] ], "sources": [ "delta-controls", "moen-limit" ] }, { "id": "st-drain-plan", "tag": "Changing the tub or shower base", "title": "The drain decides a lot of the work.", "rows": [ [ "Replacing a bathtub", "The drain position, overflow height and tub shape determine the waste-and-overflow assembly. We connect it to the trap, support the tub and test the drain and overflow while the joints remain accessible." ], [ "Tub to walk-in shower", "The tub waste assembly gives way to a shower drain and trap connection. We check the existing drain size, trap, vent and proposed flow, then choose the connection for the selected base or waterproofing system." ], [ "Basement bathroom", "Moving a trap or buried drain can mean opening concrete. We establish the pipe route and elevation before choosing a drain location. Underground connections are tested and inspected before the slab is restored." ], [ "Upstairs bathroom", "The drain has to fit between the floor framing. We plan its route with the fixture footprint and use access from below when needed. Structural changes are coordinated before cutting joists." ] ], "details": [ [ "Match the drain to the waterproofing", "A tiled shower needs a compatible drain connection to its waterproofing. A clamping drain works with a liner; a bonding-flange drain joins a surface membrane. Curbless showers also need floor height and drainage slope worked out before the base is built." ] ], "sources": [ "oatey-waste", "schluter-waterproofing" ], "link": { "path": "/services/shower-tub/tub-shower-drains-and-leaks/", "label": "Explore tub drains, overflows & hidden leaks →" } }, { "id": "st-layout", "tag": "Choose fixtures before rough-in", "title": "Build around how you use it.", "cards": [ { "title": "Head + handshower", "text": "Choose whether they run separately or together. That sets the transfer-valve configuration and water demand. Put the controls where you can reach them before stepping into the spray." }, { "title": "A deeper soaking tub", "text": "Usable fill volume and filler flow affect fill time and hot-water demand. Confirm the drain position and the filler reach before the pipes go in." }, { "title": "Deck or floor-mounted filler", "text": "A Roman-tub faucet mounts on a deck; a freestanding filler anchors to a floor rough-in. Connection, support and access for future service are part of the installation." } ], "link": { "path": "/water-heater-repair/", "label": "Check the hot-water side of the plan →" } }, { "id": "st-stages", "tag": "From open wall to first shower", "title": "How the work comes together.", "steps": [ [ "Choose & expose", "Confirm fixture models, control locations, drain position and finished wall thickness. Isolate the water, remove the old plumbing and inspect the exposed pipes." ], [ "Rough in & test", "Install and secure the concealed valve, supplies and waste connections. Coordinate tub/base setting with the drain hookup. Test the pipes and complete required inspections before closing the wall or slab." ], [ "Finish & run", "After waterproofing and finishes are ready, install the handles, plates, spout and head. Set the temperature limit, check each outlet and run the drain. For tubs, test the overflow and watch the waste connections while a full tub empties." ] ], "link": { "path": "/services/plumbing-remodel/", "label": "See the full plumbing remodel guide →" } }, { "id": "st-price", "tag": "What belongs in the quote", "title": "Plumbing, access and putting it back.", "paragraphs": [ "The price follows the work: replacing a valve in its current location, relocating pipes, opening concrete or fitting a new drain take different amounts of labor. Worn piping uncovered during access can add another repair.", "We spell out the plumbing work, fixture supply and access openings, then agree on who handles demolition, waterproofing, tile and wall repair. Share fixture model numbers before ordering so we can check the connections and explain the complete job." ] } ], "faqs": [ { "question": "Can an old two-handle shower become a single-handle shower?", "answer": "Yes, with a suitable new valve and a plan for connecting the supplies and covering or repairing the old openings. A remodel plate can sometimes cover the work; a full bathroom remodel may incorporate it into new wall finishes." }, { "question": "Should the valve be replaced while the wall is already open?", "answer": "That is a useful time to evaluate its condition, parts availability and whether it provides the controls you want. Open access also lets us check the surrounding pipe connections and supports." }, { "question": "Can I buy the tub and trim before the plumber visits?", "answer": "Share the model numbers first. Drain location, tub support, filler connections and valve compatibility can affect the installation. Reviewing them early helps avoid a fixture that needs unexpected piping or finish changes." } ] } }, "symptoms": [ { "id": "drip", "label": "It won’t stop dripping", "title": "Start at the shutoff parts inside the valve.", "text": "Water left in a showerhead can drain after use. A drip that keeps returning once that water is gone points us toward the cartridge or stem seals.", "guide": "valves", "anchor": "st-valve-symptoms" }, { "id": "temperature", "label": "Too cold, too hot or weak", "title": "Compare this shower with the other fixtures.", "text": "That tells us whether to start at this shower’s head, supplies and mixing valve or at the home’s hot-water and pressure system.", "guide": "valves", "anchor": "st-temperature" }, { "id": "diverter", "label": "Water from the wrong outlet", "title": "Tell us whether you’re filling the tub or showering.", "text": "A worn spout diverter can send too much water into the tub during a shower. Water rising to the showerhead during tub filling sends us toward the spout and its supply path.", "guide": "diverters", "anchor": "st-diverter-flow" }, { "id": "drain", "label": "Slow drain or a leak below", "title": "The drain and the leak each need a path traced.", "text": "Tell us when it gets wet: during a shower, as the tub empties or with everything turned off. Stop using a fixture that leaks into a wall or ceiling.", "guide": "drains", "anchor": "st-leak-timing" }, { "id": "replace", "label": "I’m replacing or remodeling", "title": "Choose the plumbing before closing the wall.", "text": "Valve compatibility, drain location and access shape the project. We handle the plumbing and coordinate the connections with the rest of the remodel.", "guide": "replacement", "anchor": "st-access" } ], "parts": [ { "id": "cartridge", "label": "Cartridge", "file": "salt-lake-city-shower-cartridge-replacement-1.webp", "alt": "Removed shower cartridge held in front of the open valve in Salt Lake City", "title": "The replaceable control inside the valve.", "text": "The handle turns or moves this assembly to control water. Internal seals and moving parts can wear or bind. A cartridge repair usually takes place through the opening behind the trim.", "caption": "Salt Lake City / Cartridge removed", "link": "/past-work-salt-lake-city-shower-repair/" }, { "id": "stem", "label": "Older stem assembly", "file": "midvale-shower-repair-failed-shower-valve-stems.jpg.webp", "alt": "Worn brass shower stem components removed during a Midvale repair", "title": "The working parts of an older faucet.", "text": "Many older two- and three-handle fixtures use threaded stems. Turning the handle moves a seal toward or away from its seat. We inspect the stem, sealing surfaces and packing around the shaft.", "caption": "Midvale / Removed stem components", "link": "/midvale-shower-repair/" }, { "id": "body", "label": "Valve body", "file": "sandy-ut-new-shower-valve-installation-copper-piping-mountain-man-plumbing.png.webp", "alt": "Rear of the brass valve body with copper connections and a support bar during a Sandy shower replacement", "title": "The part connected to the house piping.", "text": "The body remains connected to hot and cold supplies and the mixed-water outlets. This rear view shows the pipe connections and support. Replacing this part requires access to those connections.", "caption": "Sandy / Rear of the replacement valve", "link": "/sandy-shower-repair/" } ], "diverter_states": [ { "id": "tub", "label": "Filling the tub", "title": "The spout is the open outlet.", "text": "Mixed water leaves through the tub spout. A steady stream from the showerhead at the same time sends us looking for a restriction in the tub path.", "next": "See stacking and the tub-drop connection below." }, { "id": "shower", "label": "Running the shower", "title": "The diverter sends water up to the head.", "text": "Closing the gate inside the spout redirects flow. A worn or damaged gate can leave a strong stream running into the tub and reduce the shower’s flow.", "next": "We check the spout mechanism and whether a repair kit or replacement spout suits it." }, { "id": "off", "label": "Everything turned off", "title": "The mixing valve stops the incoming water.", "text": "Water remaining in the head and riser drains away. A continuing drip after that points toward the valve’s shutoff parts.", "next": "Go to the valve and cartridge guide for a persistent drip." } ], "sources": [ { "id": "moen-leaks", "title": "Moen: PosiTemp leak troubleshooting", "url": "https://solutions.moen.com/Article_Library/Shower_Faucet:_Leaking-_PosiTemp_Valve" }, { "id": "moen-1222", "title": "Moen: 1222 cartridge service and retention", "url": "https://solutions.moen.com/Article_Library/1222_Cartridge:_Single_Handle_Shower-_PosiTemp" }, { "id": "moen-limit", "title": "Moen: PosiTemp temperature limit stop", "url": "https://solutions.moen.com/Article_Library/How_to_Adjust_the_PosiTemp_Temperature_Limit_Stop" }, { "id": "delta-controls", "title": "Delta: MultiChoice controls and compatibility", "url": "https://www.deltafaucet.com/design-innovation/innovations/shower/multichoice-universal-valve" }, { "id": "moen-stacking", "title": "Moen: water from the showerhead during tub filling", "url": "https://solutions.moen.com/Article_Library/What_is_a_Stacking_Leak%3F" }, { "id": "moen-spout", "title": "Moen: threaded and slip-fit tub spouts", "url": "https://solutions.moen.com/Article_Library/Replacing_a_Tub_Spout" }, { "id": "oatey-waste", "title": "Oatey: bathtub waste and overflow connections", "url": "https://www.oatey.com/resources/project-guides/how-install-bathtub-drain" }, { "id": "schluter-waterproofing", "title": "Schluter: shower waterproofing and drain assemblies", "url": "https://www.schluter.com/schluter-us/en_US/article-tiled-shower-waterproofing" }, { "id": "moen-handle-types", "title": "Moen: shower valve controls and handle motion", "url": "https://solutions.moen.com/Article_Library/A_Comparison_of_M-Core%2C_PosiTemp_and_Moentrol_Valves%3F" }, { "id": "pfister-stems", "title": "Pfister: multi-handle valves, stems and diverters", "url": "https://www.pfisterfaucets.com/parts-support/troubleshooting/product/pfister-g01-3190-3-handle-tub-shower-trim-with-valve" }, { "id": "moen-cad", "title": "Moen 2520: original CAD and valve specifications", "url": "https://shop.moen.com/products/2520" } ], "handle_types": [ { "id": "single", "label": "Single handle", "subtitle": "One mixing cartridge", "title": "One handle brings the supplies together.", "text": "Hot and cold enter opposite sides of the valve. Its cartridge controls the mix and shutoff. A rotate-only control such as Moen PosiTemp starts the water and moves it from cold toward hot. Other single-handle designs use a pull or lift motion to adjust flow.", "repair": "For a continuing drip, we check the cartridge and its seals. These working parts can often be serviced through the opening behind the handle.", "parts": [ [ "mix", "Cartridge & seals", "The 1222 cartridge contains the shutoff, mixing and pressure-balancing components. Its oval side seals separate the supply passages." ], [ "body", "Brass valve body", "The body connects to the four pipes and holds the cartridge. This model uses the geometry published by Moen for its 2520 valve." ], [ "clip", "Retaining clip", "The U-shaped clip locks the cartridge into the valve body against water pressure. It lifts out for cartridge service." ], [ "stem", "Handle stem", "The handle attaches to this brass shaft. Turning it operates the cartridge." ], [ "outlets", "Water connections", "Hot and cold enter opposite sides. The upper outlet serves the shower; the lower outlet serves the tub spout." ] ], "contexts": { "hub": { "text": "A single cartridge mixes hot and cold and stops the water. Select a part to see where a drip or control problem starts.", "repair": "The valve repair guide covers cartridge identification and the parts we service." }, "replacement": { "text": "Match the new trim to the valve behind the wall. The model shows the cartridge, retaining parts and body that determine compatibility.", "repair": "Changing to another valve system involves the body and pipe connections behind the finish." } } }, { "id": "two", "label": "Two handles", "subtitle": "Separate hot and cold", "title": "Each handle controls its own supply.", "text": "On this older arrangement, the left handle opens hot water and the right opens cold. You balance them by hand. Water joins inside the connected valve body before traveling to the outlet. A tub/shower version commonly has a pull-up diverter on its tub spout.", "repair": "Older compression stems close a rubber washer against a seat. Worn washers, damaged seats and leaking stem seals can be serviced with matching parts. Some two-handle fixtures use ceramic cartridges instead.", "parts": [ [ "hot", "Hot stem & valve", "Turning the handle moves a rubber washer toward or away from the seat inside the body. A flattened washer or a pitted seat can let the spout keep dripping after the handle is closed." ], [ "cold", "Cold stem & valve", "The cold side has a second stem and washer. Water leaking around a handle comes from the stem seal or packing; a worn shutoff washer lets water through to the outlet." ], [ "mix", "Connected valve body", "The hot and cold valves feed a shared passage in this brass body. The body stays connected to the pipes when the removable stems and seats are serviced from the front." ], [ "trim", "Handles & flanges", "The cross handles turn the stems, and the chrome flanges cover the wall openings. Handle splines, stem length and flange threads determine which replacement trim fits." ], [ "outlets", "Mixed-water outlets", "Mixed water leaves the center of the body. Pulling up the tub-spout diverter blocks the spout opening so water travels up the shower pipe. Wear at that diverter can leave the spout running during a shower." ] ], "contexts": { "hub": { "text": "One handle opens hot water and the other opens cold. The supplies mix inside the connected body.", "repair": "The repair guide explains the stems, washers and seats used in older controls." }, "replacement": { "text": "A two-handle valve leaves two openings in the wall. Plan how the new control and wall finish will fit those openings.", "repair": "Include access to both supply connections and the outlet when pricing a conversion." } } }, { "id": "three", "label": "Three handles", "subtitle": "Hot / diverter / cold", "title": "The middle handle chooses the outlet.", "text": "The outer handles control hot and cold separately. The center handle operates a diverter that directs mixed water to the tub spout or showerhead.", "repair": "A worn center diverter can send water to both outlets. A continuing drip after both supply handles are closed points back to the hot or cold shutoff parts.", "parts": [ [ "hot", "Hot stem & valve", "The hot stem carries a rubber washer that closes against a seat in the body. A damaged seat can quickly chew up a new washer, so both surfaces matter in a drip repair." ], [ "cold", "Cold stem & valve", "The cold stem controls the second supply. Its washer stops flow to the outlets; its stem seal keeps water from escaping around the handle. The leak location helps identify which part needs attention." ], [ "mix", "Center diverter", "The center stem switches the mixed water between the tub and shower passages. Worn diverter seals can let both outlets run together even when the hot and cold valves are working properly." ], [ "trim", "Three handles & flanges", "The center handle operates the diverter; the outer handles control the supplies. Matching trim depends on the stem and flange connections behind these handles." ], [ "outlets", "Tub & shower branches", "The upper connection feeds the showerhead and the lower connection feeds the tub spout. The center diverter chooses the path; the two outer handles shut the water off." ] ], "contexts": { "hub": { "text": "The outside handles set hot and cold. The middle handle sends that mixed water to the tub or shower.", "repair": "A faulty center diverter and a dripping supply valve lead to different repairs." }, "replacement": { "text": "Three handles mean three existing wall openings. A conversion needs a plan for the new valve, outlets and finish repair.", "repair": "Choose the finished layout before the wall is opened so the plumbing and surface work agree." } } } ], "handle_note": "Modern showers can have separate temperature and volume controls, or a second handle for a handshower. Those belong to a mixing/transfer system. The older two-handle example here has one hot valve and one cold valve.", "replacement_projects": [ { "id": "trim", "label": "New handles & finish", "title": "Keep a sound valve. Fit compatible trim.", "text": "The handle and cover plate are the trim. Matching new trim can refresh a shower without disconnecting its pipes. We identify the valve family first because trim fits specific bodies and cartridges.", "detail": "If it also drips or turns poorly, service the working parts while the trim is off.", "file": "sandy-ut-shower-handle-repair-caulk-trim-mountain-man-plumbing.webp", "alt": "Finished shower handle and cover plate during a repair in Sandy", "caption": "Our work / Finished shower trim", "link": "/sandy-shower-repair/" }, { "id": "valve", "label": "New valve in the wall", "title": "Replace the body. Reconnect the pipes.", "text": "A damaged body, unavailable repair parts or a control upgrade can call for a new valve. We open access, isolate the supplies and disconnect the old body. The new valve is supported at the right depth for the finished wall.", "detail": "The hot and cold inlets, shower riser and tub-drop connection are checked while exposed. We plan the access patch with the valve work.", "file": "sandy-ut-new-shower-valve-installation-copper-piping-mountain-man-plumbing.png.webp", "alt": "Rear of a replacement shower valve with copper connections and mounting support", "caption": "Our work / New valve and copper connections", "link": "/sandy-shower-repair/" }, { "id": "fixture", "label": "New tub or shower", "title": "Plan the water and drain as one job.", "text": "A new fixture can change the drain location, valve position and wall layout. Select the tub or shower base, matching drain, valve and trim before rough-in. Those choices establish where the concealed connections belong.", "detail": "We inspect the existing trap and drain, plan access and coordinate setting, waterproofing and finish work with the remodel team.", "file": "sandy-ut-new-shower-valve-installation-copper-piping-mountain-man-plumbing.png.webp", "alt": "Concealed shower valve and water lines before the wall closes", "caption": "Our work / Connections planned before finishing", "link": "/sandy-shower-repair/" } ] }