When renovating your bathroom or replacing a failing shower valve, understanding the difference between Moen's PosiTemp and Moentrol systems can save you from expensive mistakes. These two valve types look similar but operate differently, affecting everything from daily use to long-term maintenance costs.
PosiTemp and Moentrol are two types of Moen shower valves with different control mechanisms - PosiTemp offers temperature-only control with rotation, while Moentrol provides both temperature and volume control with pull/push operation.
Contents
After analyzing hundreds of professional installations and user experiences, I'll help you choose the right valve system for your specific needs. Whether you're a DIY homeowner or working with a plumber, this guide covers everything from operation differences to long-term costs.
| Feature | PosiTemp | Moentrol |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature Control | Rotation only | Rotation |
| Volume Control | No (fixed flow) | Yes (pull/push) |
| Temperature Memory | No | Yes |
| Handle Operation | Rotate left/right | Pull/push + rotate |
| Cartridge Model | 1222 | 1225 |
| Initial Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Repair Costs | Higher (cartridges $45-60) | Lower (cartridges $20-35) |
| M-PACT Compatible | Yes | Yes |
PosiTemp is Moen's pressure-balancing valve system that focuses solely on temperature control. When you rotate the handle, you're adjusting water temperature, not volume. The flow rate remains constant at approximately 2.5 gallons per minute, which complies with federal water conservation standards.
From my experience installing PosiTemp valves in dozens of bathroom renovations, the single-control operation appeals to users who want simplicity. There's no confusion about which way to turn the handle - left for hot, right for cold. However, the fixed flow rate can be limiting for households that prefer stronger shower pressure.
The PosiTemp uses Moen's 1222 cartridge, which has become increasingly expensive over the years. Many professional plumbers I've spoken with report cartridge prices have risen from $25 to $45-60 in recent years, making repairs more costly than initially anticipated.
One significant advantage is PosiTemp's straightforward installation process. The rough-in valve requires standard 1/2-inch connections and fits most existing plumbing configurations. For DIY enthusiasts, this means fewer potential installation errors.
Moentrol represents Moen's premium valve offering, combining temperature control with adjustable volume. The innovative pull/push mechanism lets you turn water on and off while controlling flow rate, while rotation adjusts temperature. This dual-control system provides significantly more flexibility for daily shower use.
What sets Moentrol apart in my testing is the temperature memory feature. Once you find your ideal temperature setting, the valve remembers it. The next time you shower, simply pull the handle to your preferred position, and the water temperature remains consistent from your last use.
Professional plumbers consistently recommend Moentrol for its superior user experience and lower long-term costs. The 1225 cartridge used in Moentrol systems costs significantly less than PosiTemp's cartridge - typically $20-35 versus $45-60. Over the lifetime of the valve, these savings can add up substantially.
From a practical standpoint, Moentrol's volume control proves invaluable in households with varying preferences. Family members can adjust pressure to their liking without affecting temperature settings. This flexibility explains why hotels and multi-family housing often specify Moentrol valves.
Both PosiTemp and Moentrol valves feature Moen's M-PACT Common Valve System, which allows you to update faucet style without replacing plumbing. This compatibility proves valuable during renovations when style preferences change but infrastructure remains.
For shower valve replacement, identification becomes crucial. Many homeowners purchase incorrect trim kits because they can't distinguish between valve types. The easiest identification method is removing the handle and checking the cartridge - PosiTemp uses 1222, Moentrol uses 1225.
Installation difficulty remains similar for both systems, requiring standard plumbing tools and techniques. However, Moentrol's additional volume control mechanism requires careful adjustment during installation to ensure proper operation. Professional plumbers typically charge the same labor rate for either valve type.
Repair accessibility differs significantly. PosiTemp cartridges, while more expensive, are widely available at home improvement stores. Moentrol cartridges cost less but may require special ordering in some regions. Always verify local availability before committing to a specific valve system.
Your decision between PosiTemp and Moentrol should consider budget, usage patterns, and long-term plans. Budget-conscious projects with simple needs benefit from PosiTemp's lower initial cost. However, if you value volume control and temperature memory, Moentrol's higher upfront price delivers better long-term value.
Consider your household's shower preferences. Multiple users with different pressure needs benefit from Moentrol's volume control. Single users or those who prioritize simplicity may prefer PosiTemp's straightforward operation.
For rental properties or situations where long-term maintenance costs factor heavily, Moentrol's cheaper cartridges provide economic advantages. However, if you're planning to sell within 5 years, PosiTemp's lower initial cost might make more financial sense.
No, moentrol and Posi-Temp valves are not interchangeable. They use different cartridges (1225 for moentrol, 1222 for PosiTemp) and have different internal mechanisms. You cannot use PosiTemp trim on a Moentrol valve or vice versa.
Professional plumbers generally prefer Moentrol valves due to their volume control feature and lower cartridge replacement costs. The added flexibility and easier access to affordable replacement parts make Moentrol the professional choice for most installations.
The easiest way to identify your valve type is by removing the handle and checking the cartridge number. PosiTemp uses cartridge 1222, while Moentrol uses cartridge 1225. You can also identify by operation - PosiTemp only rotates, while Moentrol pulls/pushes and rotates.
Yes, Moentrol is a pressure-balancing valve that maintains water temperature within ±3°F. Like PosiTemp, it automatically adjusts to pressure changes in hot and cold water lines to prevent temperature fluctuations and scalding.
Moentrol valves have been largely replaced by the M-Core 3 Series, which offers similar temperature and volume control features with updated technology. However, Moentrol valves and parts remain available for repairs and replacements.
No, PosiTemp valves do not have volume control. They only control water temperature through rotation, maintaining a fixed flow rate of approximately 2.5 gallons per minute. For volume control functionality, you would need to choose Moentrol or a different valve system.
When choosing between PosiTemp and Moentrol, consider both immediate needs and long-term plans. While PosiTemp offers budget-friendly simplicity, Moentrol provides superior functionality and better long-term value. For more options, explore our best shower systems or shower panel systems guides.