Plumbing Picks is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Quick answer from a licensed plumber: For most tub and shower remodels, buy the Delta Arvo 144840-SP-I. It comes with the MultiChoice Universal rough-in valve, a Monitor pressure balance cartridge, a tub spout and an In2ition head with a built-in hand shower, and Delta rates it at 1.75 gpm. For a walk-in shower with a rain head, the Delta 342702-SP includes a diverter valve for its raincan and hand shower. For Moen’s Posi-Temp valve, the Conway 82922SRN and Idora 82115SRN both include the valve. If your wall already has a good Delta or Moen valve, you may only need trim.
Our pick for most bathrooms: the Delta Arvo 144840-SP-I, with the valve, trim, tub spout and 2-in-1 hand shower in one box. Check the Delta Arvo 144840-SP-I on Amazon
A shower system here means the whole valve and trim package: the valve that goes in the wall, the handle and plate, the shower head, and the tub spout if there is one. That matters because most “shower faucet sets” on Amazon are trim only, marked “valve not included” or “valve required.” Every pick below ships with its rough-in valve, per the maker. If your wall already holds a good Delta MultiChoice or Moen Posi-Temp valve, you may only need trim. The valve section explains how to tell. For a head swap alone, see our shower head picks.
Shower Systems Compared
| Kit | Valve in the box | Valve type | Outlets | Head flow (maker) | Volume control |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delta Arvo 144840-SP-I | MultiChoice Universal | Pressure balance (Monitor 14) | In2ition head + hand shower, tub spout | 1.75 gpm at 80 psi | No |
| Delta Modern 342702-SP | MultiChoice Integrated Diverter (R22000) | Pressure balance (Monitor 14) | 10 in. raincan + hand shower, no tub spout | 1.75 gpm at 80 psi | No |
| Moen Conway 82922SRN | Posi-Temp | Pressure balance | 6 in. head (Moen), tub spout | 1.75 gpm (after 3/1/18) | No |
| Moen Idora 82115SRN | Posi-Temp | Pressure balance | 4 in. five-function head, tub spout | 1.75 gpm | No |
| Delta T17T297 (not linked) | No: trim only | Thermostatic (TempAssure 17T) | Shower head | 2.5 gpm at 80 psi | Yes, separate handle |
From the Delta, Moen and EPA documents listed below, read on September 29, 2026. Every linked listing was sold by Amazon.com and in stock that day.
Pressure Balance vs Thermostatic Valves
Pressure balance: the standard single-handle valve
Every kit in the table except the 17T uses a pressure balance valve. Delta says its Monitor valves are built so you do not get a sudden and possibly unsafe temperature change when water runs elsewhere, “such as using a dishwasher, flushing a toilet or running a washing machine.” Delta rates Monitor at ±3.6°F on its 342702-SP page. Moen rates the Posi-Temp mechanism at ±3°F (±2°C) on its Idora sheet. Moen’s comparison chart lists Posi-Temp as pressure balanced and “temperature only.” Moen’s trim guide says the Posi-Temp handle turns on to a single level of water pressure and does not control the flow rate; turning it further cycles from cold through warm to hot.
Thermostatic: set the temperature, then the volume
Delta says its TempAssure thermostatic valves keep the temperature consistent “by precisely measuring, monitoring, and automatically adjusting the water mix.” Delta rates them at ±3°F. The practical difference is the second handle. On Delta’s 17T trims, one handle sets temperature and the other turns the water on and off, so you can leave the temperature set. The Delta T17T297 is a 17T shower trim rated 2.5 gpm at 80 psi. Delta sells it as “trim kit only” that needs a MultiChoice valve. The Amazon listing names the R10000-UNBXHF high-flow valve as its recommended rough. Delta says the HF valve is for shower-only use and has a blocked tub port. The only R10000-UNBXHF listing we found under Amazon was a used unit sold by Amazon Resale, and the T17T297 listing itself was sold by a third party with low stock, so we did not build a pick around it. The standard Delta R10000-UNBX valve is sold by Amazon and, per Delta, accepts single, dual or dual thermostatic cartridges.
Which to choose
Plumber’s note: a pressure balance valve covers the common problem in most houses, a scald or cold shot when someone flushes. Choose thermostatic when you want separate volume control or a set-and-forget temperature. Moen’s M-CORE 3 Series also adds volume control to a pressure balance valve, per Moen’s comparison chart.
Match the Rough-In Valve
Delta MultiChoice (R10000)
Delta says installing the MultiChoice Universal valve first gives you “the freedom to decide (or change your mind on) what type of shower you want later.” The R10000-UNBX page lists what matters on the rough side. It is the valve body only. It accepts single, dual or dual thermostatic cartridges, and the cartridge ships with the trim. The Amazon listing for the R10000-UNBX names those as Delta’s 13 or 14 Series, 17 Series and 17T Series trims. It can go back-to-back. It has a mounting bracket for a stringer, and Delta sells the R10000 in IPS, PEX and universal connection versions. It comes without stops, and it has a heat-resistant test cap for air or water testing before the cartridge goes in. So a MultiChoice valve roughed in under a 14 Series trim can take a 17T thermostatic trim later without opening the wall. More in which Delta trims fit the MultiChoice valve and Delta shower cartridges by series.
Moen Posi-Temp and M-CORE
Moen says it has made several single-handle valve types and “the trim kits are not interchangeable.” Its guide says a Posi-Temp valve, introduced in 1985, has its escutcheon screws at 2 and 7 o’clock and a handle that rotates to turn on. It “accepts any Posi-Temp trim kit.” On Posi-Temp the cartridge (1222) comes with the valve. On M-CORE it comes with the trim: the 1212 for 2 Series and the 1213 for 3 Series. M-CORE uses a 3 port valve for shower only and a 4 port valve for tub and shower. Moen says you can move from M-CORE 2 Series to 3 Series with a new trim kit and no new valve body. More in Moen trim compatibility by valve and Moen 1222 vs 1225 cartridges.
When you need the whole system
Plumber’s note: buy a kit with the valve when the old valve is a two- or three-handle unit, an older valve with no trim still made, or a brand you are leaving. Buy one too when the wall is already open for a remodel. Moen says its two- and three-handle showers are sold only as complete kits with the valve and trim. If the old valve is a working MultiChoice or Posi-Temp, trim alone usually does it, and a worn cartridge is covered in how to replace a shower cartridge.
Delta Arvo 144840-SP-I Tub and Shower with In2ition (Valve Included)
Monitor 14 Series pressure balance valve · MultiChoice Universal rough-in valve included · In2ition 2-in-1 shower head and hand shower · settings: full body, full with massage, massage, pause · 1.75 gpm at 80 psi · WaterSense labeled · ADA compliant · single handle, temperature only · SpotShield Brushed Nickel
This is the whole job in one box: trim, tub spout, shower arm and flange, and the MultiChoice Universal valve that goes in the wall. Delta lists the contents as “shower head, shower arm & flange, rough-in valve, tub spout, and handle.” The valve inside is a Monitor 14 Series pressure balance valve. Delta says it “maintains a balanced pressure of hot and cold water even when a valve is turned on or off elsewhere in the system.” That is the flushed-toilet scald or cold shot a pressure balance valve is there to stop.
The head is Delta’s In2ition 2-in-1: a fixed head and a hand shower in one unit, which Delta says you can use together or separately. Delta rates the flow at 1.75 gpm at 80 psi, and the head is WaterSense labeled. The handle sets temperature only, per Delta, so there is no separate volume control. The bonus is the valve. Delta says the MultiChoice body accepts single-function, dual-function and thermostatic cartridges, so other Delta trims can go on later without opening the wall (see the valve section). One catch: a Delta reply on the product page says this trim is only sold with the valve. If you already have a good MultiChoice valve in the wall, buy a trim-only kit instead.
- Valve, trim, spout, arm and head in one kit, per Delta
- MultiChoice valve takes other Delta trims later, per Delta
- Hand shower and fixed head in one In2ition unit
- WaterSense labeled at 1.75 gpm, per Delta
- Temperature only; no separate volume control
- Delta says this trim is only sold with the valve
- You pay for a second valve if a good MultiChoice is already in the wall
- A new valve means opening the wall
Verdict: The kit to buy for a tub and shower remodel when the wall is open and you want a fixed head and hand shower on one single-handle valve.
Delta Modern 342702-SP Raincan Shower System with Rough Valve
Monitor 14 Series pressure balance · MultiChoice Universal Integrated Shower Diverter rough (R22000 series) included · 10 in. round raincan, single spray · wall-mount hand shower, single spray · 2-function diverter: head only or hand shower only · 1.75 gpm at 80 psi · WaterSense labeled · ADA compliant · shower only, no tub spout
Delta calls this a bundle with “complete shower trim with raincan shower head, wall mount hand shower and MultiChoice Universal Integrated Shower Diverter Valve rough.” The rough is Delta’s R22000 series. Delta says this one rough controls two valves in the wall, so one trim plate carries two handles. Delta says the top handle picks the outlet and the bottom handle runs on/off and temperature. The raincan is 10 in. across, and the Amazon listing says it needs no plumbing run through the ceiling. Delta’s spec sheet rates the raincan and the hand shower at 1.75 gpm at 80 psi, and the heads are WaterSense labeled. The same sheet lists the maximum system flow as 5.0 gpm at 60 psi with the R22000 rough.
Know what the diverter does. Delta lists two positions, shower head only or hand shower only, and its parts list names a 2-function, non-shared diverter cartridge, so the two do not run at the same time. The Amazon title calls this a “Valve Trim Kit,” but its model field reads 342702-SP, its bullets and Delta’s page say the rough valve is included, and Delta’s installation guide for it is titled “Raincan Shower Rough & Trim with Hand Shower.” That guide says the R22000 must be installed with a plug in its right-side port. Plumber’s note: the R22000 is a different body from the plain R10000 valve, so this is a new-rough job. Plan it with the wall open, and check the box for the rough before the tile goes up.
- Rough valve with built-in diverter included, per Delta
- 10 in. raincan plus a separate hand shower
- One trim plate for temperature and diverter
- Monitor pressure balance within ±3.6°F, per Delta
- Shower only; no tub spout
- Head or hand shower, not both at once, per Delta
- Amazon title says trim kit; confirm the rough is in the box
- Single spray on both heads
Verdict: The pick for a walk-in shower remodel that wants a rain head and a hand shower on one valve.
Not linked: Delta 342702-SP Raincan System — on 10/3/2026 the Amazon listing was sold by a third-party seller, not by Amazon or the maker. We re-check listings every week.
Moen Conway 82922SRN Posi-Temp Tub and Shower (Valve Included)
Posi-Temp pressure balancing cycle valve included · 1/2 in. IPS/CC connections · adjustable temperature limit stop · lever turns counterclockwise through 270°, off at 6 o’clock, max hot at 9 · 1.75 gpm (models made after 3/1/18) · WaterSense criteria · ADA for lever handle · one-function head · lifetime limited warranty to the original homeowner
Moen’s spec sheet says this kit “includes valve, showerhead, tub spout, arm and flange.” The valve is Moen’s Posi-Temp, a pressure balancing cycle valve. One lever turns it on and sets the temperature, with no separate volume control. The 1/2 in. connections take either IPS threads or copper (CC). Moen lists an adjustable temperature limit stop, and the sheet says it meets WaterSense criteria and New York City Local Law No. 57. The replacement cartridge Moen lists for it is the 1222.
Moen and the Amazon listing differ on the head. Moen’s product page lists a 6 in. one-function rainshower head, and the spec sheet drawing shows it 6-3/16 in. wide. The Amazon listing says 8 in. square. Go by Moen. The spec sheet also gives two flow rates by build date: 1.75 gpm for models made after March 1, 2018, and 2.5 gpm before. A new kit should be the 1.75 gpm version. The warranty is lifetime limited to the original homeowner, 10 years in a multifamily building and 5 years commercial. The Amazon listing adds that the included valve must be installed unless a compatible Posi-Temp valve is already in the wall.
- Posi-Temp valve, trim, spout, arm and head in one kit, per Moen
- 1/2 in. IPS or copper connections
- Adjustable limit stop to cap the hottest setting
- Lifetime limited warranty to the original homeowner
- Temperature only; no volume control
- Head size differs between Moen (6 in.) and the Amazon listing (8 in.)
- One-function head; no hand shower
- Posi-Temp trim fits only a Posi-Temp valve, per Moen
Verdict: The Moen kit for a tub and shower when you want a large single-spray head and the common Posi-Temp valve behind it.
Moen Idora 82115SRN Posi-Temp Tub and Shower (Valve Included)
Posi-Temp pressure balancing cycle valve included · 1222 cartridge · 1/2 in. IPS/CC connections · adjustable temperature limit stop · holds the set temperature to ±3°F (±2°C), per Moen · 4 in. five-function head limited to 1.75 gpm · certified to ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1 and ASSE 1016 · WaterSense criteria · lifetime limited warranty to the original homeowner
The Idora kit is the same Posi-Temp system as the Conway, with a different look and a five-function head. Moen’s sheet says it “includes valve, showerhead, tub spout, arm and flange.” It lists a 1222 cartridge and says the valve accommodates back-to-back installs. The pressure balancing mechanism holds the selected temperature to ±3°F (±2°C). Moen’s sheet says it is third-party certified to ASSE 1016. Plumber’s note: ASSE 1016 is the performance standard for automatic compensating (anti-scald) valves in showers and tub/showers, and it is the listing an inspector looks for.
The head is 4 in. across and limited to 1.75 gpm, per Moen. Moen adds that products marked 1.75 gpm comply with California water efficiency rules. The lever turns counterclockwise through a 270° arc, with off at 6 o’clock and maximum hot at 9 o’clock. Moen lists the adjustable temperature limit stop as included. Choose the Idora over the Conway if you want spray settings. Choose the Conway if you want the bigger single-spray head.
- Posi-Temp valve included, with the 1222 cartridge, per Moen
- Five-function head
- ASSE 1016 certified, per Moen’s spec sheet
- Temperature held to ±3°F, per Moen
- Temperature only; no volume control
- Smaller 4 in. head
- No hand shower
- Tub spout needs the right pipe length (see the install section)
Verdict: The pick for a tub and shower when you want Moen’s Posi-Temp valve and more than one spray pattern.
I send an occasional note when a new guide goes up — repairs worth doing yourself, and the parts that actually last. No spam, no course funnel; written by a licensed Georgia plumber.
Anti-Scald: Limit Stops and Standards
Moen’s instructions treat the maximum temperature as a separate setting from the balancing: the limit stop. Moen’s Posi-Temp instructions say to turn the lever to the hottest temperature you want, “not to exceed 120 degrees F (49 degrees C),” then set the adjustable limit stop so the lever stops there. Moen says this “prevents the lever from being turned into an unsafe temperature.” It adds that seasonal maintenance of the maximum temperature may be needed as the incoming water temperature changes. Both Moen kits here list the adjustable limit stop. Moen’s Idora sheet lists third-party certification to ASSE 1016. Delta’s spec sheets for both Delta kits list a field-adjustable limit on handle rotation into the hot zone, and both list ASSE 1016. Delta’s instructions say to run the handle to full hot, hold a thermometer in a plastic tumbler in the stream, and move the Rotational Limit Stop if the water is above 120°F. Move it one tooth at a time and recheck: Delta’s R22000 guide says a tooth is about 6°F, and its MultiChoice guide says 4°F to 16°F depending on the incoming water. Delta adds that local codes may call for 110°F. If the shower runs lukewarm at full hot, see shower not hot enough? check the limit stop. Plumber’s note: set the stop with a thermometer at the shower head after the water heater is at its normal setting, and recheck it if you change the water heater setting.
Flow Rates and WaterSense
The EPA says standard showerheads use 2.5 gallons per minute, and WaterSense labeled heads must use no more than 2.0 gpm. The EPA says labeled heads must be independently certified. They are tested for spray force, spray coverage and pressure compensation, which means a minimum flow across a range of household pressures. Every pick here is rated 1.75 gpm by its maker. Delta rates the heads on both of its kits at 1.75 gpm at 80 psi and calls them WaterSense labeled. Moen says both of its kits meet WaterSense criteria. Moen’s Conway sheet is a reminder to check the build date. It lists 2.5 gpm for units made before March 1, 2018. The Delta T17T297 thermostatic trim is rated 2.5 gpm at 80 psi, and its product page shows no WaterSense label. Plumber’s note: the flow limit lives in the head, not the valve. If pressure is weak, look at the supply and the head first; see low water pressure in the shower.
Before You Buy
- Identify the valve in the wall. Pull the handle and plate, and match the brand and valve type. A working MultiChoice or Posi-Temp may only need trim.
- Tub and shower, or shower only? The Delta 342702-SP has no tub spout. The Arvo, Conway and Idora kits include one.
- Check the pipe. Moen’s kits take 1/2 in. IPS or copper (CC). Delta’s R10000 sheet lists separate IPS, PEX-crimp, PEX-expansion and universal (UN) versions. A UN body has 1/2 in. male pipe threads with a 1/2 in. copper sweat inside, so confirm which version comes in a kit before you buy fittings.
- Decide on volume control. All four picks are temperature only. For separate volume control, look at Delta 17T or Moen M-CORE 3 Series trim on the matching valve.
- Check the box. Confirm the rough valve is in the carton before the wall is closed, especially when a listing title says “trim kit.”
Installing a Shower Valve and Trim
Heights and spacing
Moen’s Posi-Temp instructions put the valve center 45 to 48 in. above the shower floor for a shower only. For a tub and shower, the valve goes 32 in. above the floor of the tub. Moen puts the shower arm at 78 in. above the floor and recommends a flanged elbow fitting (not included) attached to a wood brace. The tub spout goes no less than 6 in. and no more than 11 in. below the valve. Moen warns that other measurements can cause water to come out of the shower head while the tub fills. Its troubleshooting table lists less than 46 in. between valve and shower head, multiple elbows, or undersized pipe as causes. Moen’s spec sheets show the same 45/48 in. and 32 in. heights. Delta publishes its own instructions for its valves; follow the sheet in the box for each brand.
Setting the valve depth
Moen ships its valve with a plaster ground that sets the depth. For walls thicker than 1/4 in., such as tile on backer board, Moen says to cut a 4-1/2 in. hole and set the plaster ground’s printed face flush with the finished wall. Secure the valve to the framing with straps or through its mounting tabs. For thin walls under 1/4 in., like a fiberglass surround, Moen says to cut a 2-1/4 to 3-1/2 in. hole and leave the plaster ground on the valve. The wall ends up trapped between the plaster ground and the trim. Moen’s troubleshooting table says a valve set too far back from the finished wall can keep the handle from installing. Delta sets depth the same way. Its MultiChoice instructions put the plasterguard face flush with the finished wall, within 3/8 in. The R22000 guide puts the front of the rough-in box flush with the finished wall, within 1/4 in., and has a separate method for walls 1-1/8 to 2-1/8 in. thick.
Tub spout
Moen says a threaded (IPS) spout screws onto 1/2 in. pipe with male threads. A slip-fit spout goes only on copper tube that sticks out 1-1/2 to 3 in. For a threaded spout, Moen gives a pipe-length rule: measure from the elbow shoulder to the wall, add the depth to the spout’s threaded adapter, then add 1/4 in. More in slip-on vs threaded tub spouts.
Test before the wall closes
Delta says the R10000 has a heat-resistant test cap for air or water testing before the cartridge goes in. Moen’s instructions say to turn on the hot and cold supplies, check for leaks, then set the limit stop. Moen also warns to turn both supplies off and open the old faucet to relieve pressure before taking an old valve apart. If hot and cold come out reversed, Moen says to rotate the cartridge stem 180° so the notch faces down toward the drain.
When to call a pro
Moen’s instructions say to follow all local building and plumbing codes. Plumber’s note: a valve swap means cutting into the wall, soldering, crimping or threading supply lines, and pressure testing before tile or a surround goes back. Many towns require a permit for that work, so check with your building department. If the supply pipes are galvanized or the shutoffs will not close fully, hire it out. Trim, head and cartridge swaps are the do-it-yourself end of this job.
FAQ
Do I need a new valve to change my shower trim?
Often not. Delta’s MultiChoice Universal valve accepts its single-function, dual-function and thermostatic trims, and the cartridge ships with the trim. Moen says any Posi-Temp trim fits a Posi-Temp valve, and that an M-CORE 2 Series valve can take a 3 Series trim without opening the wall. Moen also says its trim kits are not interchangeable between valve types. Identify the valve first with our Delta trim compatibility guide or Moen trim compatibility guide. Buy a full system with a valve when the old valve is not one of these, or the wall is already open.
Is a pressure-balance or thermostatic shower valve better?
Both guard against sudden temperature swings. A pressure balance valve, like Delta Monitor or Moen Posi-Temp, balances hot and cold pressure when water is used elsewhere in the house. A thermostatic valve, like Delta TempAssure, measures and adjusts the mix to hold the temperature. Delta’s 17T thermostatic trim also adds a separate volume handle. For most homes a pressure balance kit does the job. Go thermostatic when you want to set the temperature once and control volume on its own.
Will a Delta shower trim fit a Moen valve?
No. Delta’s trim-only kits say you must order the MultiChoice Universal valve separately to complete the unit. Moen says its own trims are not interchangeable even between its own valve types. Plumber’s note: trim is matched to the brand and valve body behind it. If you want to switch brands, plan on changing the valve.
How hot should the shower limit stop be set?
Moen’s instructions say to turn the lever to the hottest desired temperature, not to exceed 120°F (49°C), and set the limit stop there. Moen adds that seasonal adjustment may be needed as the incoming water temperature changes. Delta’s instructions use the same 120°F ceiling and note that local codes may call for 110°F. Check it with a thermometer after install. If the shower is lukewarm at full hot, see shower not hot enough? check the limit stop.
Do WaterSense shower systems feel weak?
The EPA says standard showerheads use 2.5 gpm, and WaterSense labeled heads must use no more than 2.0 gpm. The EPA also says labeled heads are independently certified for spray force, spray coverage and pressure compensation. All four picks here are rated 1.75 gpm by their makers. If your pressure is low to begin with, start with our low shower pressure guide.
Why Trust Plumbing Picks
Plumbing Picks is written by a licensed Georgia journeyman plumber. Every spec here comes from the maker documents listed below or the Amazon listings we link; nothing comes from hands-on testing. On September 29, 2026, every linked listing was sold by Amazon.com and in stock. If you buy through a link we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Nobody pays to be included here. More on who writes this and how we pick.
Sources
- Delta: 144840-SP-I 14 Series Tub & Shower Trim with In2ition (valve included) product page, spec sheet DSP-B-144840-I, installation guide 107528
- Delta: 342702-SP Monitor 14 Series Shower with Raincan, Hand Shower & Rough Valve product page, spec sheet DSP-B-342702, parts diagram, installation guide 116683
- Delta: R10000-UNBX MultiChoice Universal Tub / Shower Rough product page, R10000 spec sheet, R10000-UNBXHF High-Flow Shower Rough product page, T17T297 TempAssure 17T Series Shower Trim product page
- Moen: Conway Posi-Temp Tub/Shower 82922 product page, Conway 82922 specification sheet (01/26)
- Moen: Idora Posi-Temp Tub/Shower 82115 product page, Idora 82115 specification sheet (11/23)
- Moen: One Handle Tub/Shower and Shower Only Valve Trim installation instructions INS2150D (includes the warranty)
- Moen: Can I Replace My Shower Trim?, A Comparison of M-Core, PosiTemp and Moentrol Valves, How to Identify Your M-Core Cartridge, Can I Replace an M-Core 2 Series with a 3 Series?
- US EPA WaterSense: Showerheads
- Amazon listings for the Delta 144840-SP-I, Delta 342702-SP, Moen 82922SRN, Moen 82115SRN and Delta R10000-UNBX (linked above), plus the Delta T17T297 listing we checked but did not link
Bottom Line
A shower system is only as good as the valve behind it. The Delta Arvo 144840-SP-I is the complete tub and shower kit for most remodels, and its MultiChoice valve takes other Delta trims later. The Delta 342702-SP adds a rain head and hand shower on a diverter valve for walk-in showers. Moen’s Conway and Idora kits bring the Posi-Temp valve. Match the valve to the trim, set the limit stop at no more than 120°F, and test for leaks before the wall closes.