Q: My handle turns ~280° CCW (off → cold → hot). What is it?
A: That rotation suggests a single-handle mixing valve using a ceramic cartridge. Two common GROHE families fit this description:
- Single-lever ceramic cartridge (often GROHE 46048000): used across many older GROHE single-handle trims.
- Older thermostatic “Grohmix” style (cartridge 47111000) or newer compact thermostatic 47175000 seen on some trims.
Tip: If you have just one knob that controls both on/off and temperature, it is most often the 46048000 ceramic. If you have separate temperature control or exact degree markings, it’s likely a thermostatic cartridge.
Q: How do I identify the exact cartridge without flooding the house?
A: Use a staged approach:
- Photograph the trim and handle backside. Remove the cap and set screw, slide off the handle, and snap photos of the stem and retaining hardware.
- Look for numbers on the cartridge hub or bonnet. GROHE often stamps the part number on the cartridge body once the trim is off.
- Match by visuals. Compare your photos to manufacturer pages:
46048000 ceramic,
47111000 Grohmix,
47175000 Turbostat. - Shutoff plan. If you must pull the cartridge, locate the main house shutoff first. Have towels, a bucket, and a helper. Mark the cartridge orientation with a Sharpie before removal.
Q: The handle is wobbly and stiff. What usually fails?
A: Two common issues:
(1) Worn splines or loose retaining screw cause wobble.
(2) Mineral scale inside the cartridge makes it stiff. A new OEM cartridge almost always restores smooth motion.
Q: Which part numbers should I check first?
A: Start here:
- GROHE 46048000 — single-handle ceramic mixing cartridge (widely used; “fits many single-lever” listings). See Home Depot or Plusco.
- GROHE 47111000 — older Grohmix thermo element cartridge. See Ferguson.
- GROHE 47175000 — compact Turbostat cartridge found in some trims. See NYRP Corp.
Q: I’m nervous—no local shutoffs. Any safe prep tips?
A: Yes.
1) Find and test the main shutoff; tag it.
2) Turn off your water heater (or set it to vacation).
3) Open a lower tub or laundry faucet to relieve pressure before you crack anything loose.
4) Lay towels and a catch pan.
5) Keep plumber’s grease and white vinegar descaler on hand for o-rings and mineral crust.
Q: Any calibration after installing a thermostatic GROHE?
A: Yes. Thermostatic elements often need a quick re-index to 100°F/38°C. Follow GROHE’s official steps for cartridge calibration here: GROHE FAQ.
Q: Bottom line—what should I do today?
A: Pull the handle and trim, photograph the stem and retainer, and compare to the three cartridges above. If it’s a single-handle mixer, order the 46048000. If you see a thermostatic module, match to 47111000 or 47175000. Have new screws, escutcheon gasket, and silicone safe for plumbing to re-seal the trim plate.
Helpful parts pages and visuals:
GROHE 46048000,
GROHE 47111000,
GROHE 47175000.
I’m Chris Mayer, writing for Plumbing 101.