How to Determine the Shower Faucet Type

Table of Contents

How to Identify the Correct Shower Faucet and Cartridge Type

Identifying the Brand/Manufacturer of Your Shower Faucet

Faucets were once standard and each has the same internal components but have an entirely different style and design on the exterior. The replacement parts were bought from various suppliers and are therefore a quick repair. Today, many manufacturers have their own specifications and specifications for parts.

Now , there are differences between stems (cartridges) as well as valves and splines. This is why you’ll need to know what model of the faucet before you repair it. Knowing the model of your faucet will make it simpler to take apart and repair. Start the process by:

Are you looking for the brand.
Utilizing a faucet cartridge identification (chart).

Shower Faucet Type and Brand Identification

You can determine the faucet’s manufacturer through a marking which indicates the source of it. It could be engraved, printed or laser-etched. A few of the most well-known brands are listed in the below table.

What Kind of Shower Faucet Do I Have?

If you can’t find any indications at the bottom of the faucet then you’ll need to begin disassembling it. Begin by removing the handle. You’ll be able measure your length of the cartridge (stem) distance of your faucet, or refer in the direction of the number of lines.

How to Take Apart a Shower Faucet

Step 1

The first step is to turn off water flow. This can be accomplished by finding the valves that cut off water (there are two, one for hot and another that is for cold). If you’re cleaning the shower, you’ll have to find your main valve for water to the building, which is on the outside of the house or the building.

Step 2

If you want to remove the handle it can be done with an appropriate screwdriver (Allen wrenches are great). The kind of screwdriver you require will depend on the kind of handle you are using:

If you’re working with one lever handle, you’ll need to find an incredibly small set-crew inside the handle. You can also make use of the Allen wrench.
If you’re working with a crystal handle it will probably have a plastic cover can be removed using the flat-head screwdriver. This will allow you to get access to the stem using an Phillips screwdriver.
If you’re using an appliance that has two handles, take off the plastic cap with the decorative design (pry it off using the help of a Phillips screwdriver).

Step 3

After the screws have been removed Once the screws are removed, you can take the handle and stem apart. They typically come out of the handle in a clump. It is possible to move the stem before you remove it to completely remove it.

Moen Disassembly and Installation Instructions

Figure Out Where Your Faucet Is Leaking or Broken

Now is the time to identify the problem. If you’re experiencing an issue with leaking, you’ll likely observe that the rubber O-rings or washers are wearing over (often due to aging). The replacement of washers made of rubber is inexpensive and are easy to fix. Take your washers to the hardware store in your area (plumbing shops are great too). They’ll be able to identify the faucet’s type and what part is failing. They will also assist you with replacing the faucet.

How to Identify the Cartridge Brand

You could reduce costs by finding out the brand of cartridge. You can do this using the measurement of length of the cartridge and number of Splines. Once you have this information, you are able to look them up against an existing reference. Take a look at this Interline brand Cartridge Identification Chart PDF.

How to Use a Faucet (Valve/Stem) Cartridge Identification Chart

Make use of a ruler or caliper and take a measurement of the cartridge. Measure from the base up to the top (from seat to the splines).
Be aware of the length of the cartridge (Lengths vary from 1-12).
Then, determine the broach pattern using an image of the chart (see the B-5 page).
Find the length of your stem’s the tier (as shown on the right and left of every page).
Find the pattern for the broach that matches (alongside the photos of the cartridge). Verify that it’s the correct pattern.
Then, keep track of the parts numbers you’ll require.

Additional Tips for Repairing Shower Faucets

Be aware of warranties: Keep all paperwork and documents regarding your faucet’s type and model. If it’s covered by warranty, you might get replacement parts for free by contacting the manufacturer.
Find out the sources for your brand: Brands like Pfister don’t offer parts in local hardware stores. You should search on Amazon for the same reason, however, since numerous parts can be purchased on this site and shipping times can be within 3 to 5 days.
Be aware of the parts that are interchangeable:Keep in mind that certain rubber seats, O-rings and springs might not interchangeable. They might look the same to different brands, however they might not be identical. Delta valve seat, as an instance appear quite similar to the Pfister design However, the dimensions differ, which could cause leaks and other issues.

This article is true as well as true to the fullest extent of the author’s understanding. The information provided is intended for educational or entertainment only. It cannot substitute for individual counsel or professional advice on financial, business legal, technical or questions.