(plumbing101.i234.me) — You installed your shower nearly 20 years ago, and now the valve or cartridge needs replacing. The problem? You don’t remember the brand. If you bought it from Home Depot, it could be Moen, Glacier Bay, Price Pfister, or American Standard. Here’s how to identify which one you have and find the right parts.
Q: How can I identify the shower valve brand?
A: Each brand has a distinct valve stem and handle design. Remove the handle and escutcheon (trim plate) to look at the valve body or stem. The shape of the stem, screw type, and markings can reveal the brand:
- Moen: Round brass stem with flat sides. Pull on to start the flow, turn for the temperature. Uses Moen 1225 or 1222 cartridge.
- Price Pfister: Short, notched stem with visible plastic retainer clip. Uses Pfister 974-042 cartridge.
- American Standard: Square metal stem with visible screw at the center. Often uses the American Standard 023529-0070A cartridge.
- Glacier Bay: Usually plastic trim with no brand stamp. Uses imported universal cartridges found at Home Depot.
Q: What if there are no markings?
A: Check the valve body behind the trim. Many brands stamp the manufacturer’s name or a model code into the brass. If it’s covered by drywall or tile, take a close-up photo of the stem and handle assembly and compare it to pictures on the manufacturer’s websites. You can also bring the photo to a plumbing supply counter for help.
Q: Can I rebuild or should I replace the valve?
A: If your valve body is solid brass and not leaking behind the wall, replacing the cartridge is enough. Moen, Pfister, and American Standard all offer long-lasting rebuild kits. However, if the valve body is plastic or corroded, replacing the entire valve may be more reliable long-term.
Q: What tools do I need for cartridge replacement?
A: You’ll need an adjustable wrench, handle puller, cartridge puller, and plumber’s grease. Shut off your main water before removing the cartridge to avoid a flood. If it feels stuck, don’t force it—use a cartridge puller tool matched to your brand.
Q: Where can I find the replacement parts?
A: Most hardware stores carry brand-specific cartridges. Check:
Home Depot,
Lowe’s,
or each manufacturer’s support page. Always take your old cartridge with you to match it correctly.
I’m Chris Mayer, writing for Plumbing 101.