After a long, chaotic day at work, you probably want to head home, take a shower, and decompress on the couch. However, to take a warm, muscle-relaxing rinse, you’ll need good quality components in your shower. While most of us forget about this part of the process, it becomes blatantly apparent when constructing or renovating a bathroom.
So, with all of the brands out there advertising their wares as the best, which one should you choose? Today, we’ll take a look at Moen’s shower valves, specifically 2510 and 2520. Here’s what you need to know.
Moen 2510
The Moen 2510 shower valve is a brass tub and shower valve featuring various features for the perfect showering experience. It comes with PosiTemp technology that maintains consistent water flow and temperature. Its 4-port system lets you set the hottest temperature (or whichever you prefer) before installing the valve.
This particular valve measures 7 x 7 x 6 inches and features a maximum pressure of 80 PSI. Since it features Moen’s M-PACT system, it’s ideal for upgrading your current setup or swapping finishes on the fixtures without tinkering with the valves.
- TEMPERATURE CONTROL: Posi-Temp valve helps maintain water temperature
- INSTALLATION TOOL INCLUDED: Plaster ground included to install the valve flush with the wall, valve…
- LONGSTANDING FLEXIBILITY: Built on the Moen M-PACT common valve system, allowing you to update the…
- CONNECTION SIZE: The mixing valve has 1/2-inch IPS connections
Pros
Like most products, the Moen 2510 shower valve features a few benefits and drawbacks. Notable upsides include:
- Solid lifespan
- Excellent at regulating water pressure
- Heat-resistant brass composition
- Compatible with most plumbing systems, even older systems
- Integrated stop options
- Temperature limits to prevent scalding
- ½ inch IPS connection compatible
Cons
Of course, there are a few drawbacks to consider, including:
- Can be tricky to fit behind a wall
- Comparative large size
Moen 2520
The Moen 2520 features many of the same components as the 2510. Like the 2510 valve, this valve features PosiTemp tech for pressure and is part of Moen’s M-PACT series. It also features a 4-port design with a single handle for optimal functionality.
It features a half-inch CC valve, including a trim style. So, you can easily upgrade without tinkering with the valve, which makes renovations easier. The Moen 2520’s traditional system design allows you to set up the system like other conventional shower valves, simplifying the process.
- TEMPERATURE CONTROL: Posi-Temp shower valves helps maintain water temperature
- LONGSTANDING FLEXIBILITY: Built on the Moen M-PACT common valve system, allowing you to update the…
- ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURER: Authentic Moen part
- CONNECTION SIZE: Shower mixer valve has 1/2-inch CC connections
Pros
Like the Moen 2510 valve, the 2520 valve has a few benefits and drawbacks. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Sturdy design
- Solid, durable brass composition
- Ideal for tub and shower renovations
- Adjustable temperature
- No need to switch the faucet plumbing to upgrade trim
- Built-in temperature limiter
- Exceptional water pressure balance
- Meets ASSE performance requirements
- ½-inch CC connection compatible
Cons
On the flip side, here are a few drawbacks to consider:
- Valve handle protrudes
- Installation guide can be hard to follow
- Unable to test the unit before installation
Moen 2510 vs. 2520: Head-To-Head Comparison
Installation
You’ll receive an installation guide with each of Moen’s shower valves. However, some of these guides are tricky to understand, complicating the installation process. The Moen 2510 installation guide can be somewhat problematic, but it goes smoothly once you get it up and running.
On the other hand, the guide that comes with the Moen 2520 is vague and difficult to understand. An expert is often required to handle the installation, as the instructions might not make sense to someone without experience.
If you want simplicity, the Moen 2510 valve is your best bet. Its fitting navigation is easy to understand, so even beginners can handle this project.
Quality
Moen’s shower valves are typically made of high-quality material, and these two valves are no exception. The 2510 and 2520 valves feature robust and durable brass that holds up well for many years.
Connection Type
These two valves are different when it comes to connection types. The Moen 2510 features half-inch male connections in a threaded style, whereas the 2520 has half-inch sweat-to-sweat connections. With the Moen 2510, you must tighten the connection to a certain point and seal it with tape.
On the flip side, the Moen 2520 requires a soldering kit for installation. You’ll need the correct solder and proper tools to melt and prime the inside of the copper fittings. If you want to avoid the hassle of soldering, the Moen 2510 is the better choice.
Functionality
Moen designed these valves for optimal functionality. Both valves offer dual applications and are ideal for shower and tub use. To create a shower spa, you can combine the unit with a transfer valve. With the transfer valve, you can add an additional hand shower, showerhead, or body sprays for a spa-like experience.
Both models feature a rotating lever function, although it’s more effective on the 2520 unit. If versatility is the name of the game, the 2510 is the best option, as you can use it in kitchen plumbing. Or, if you need something less bulky for compact spaces, the 2520 is the better choice.
Performance
Both of these valves perform well under everyday use. They operate and perform smoothly without drips, effortlessly balancing the water pressure and temperature based on your settings. There’s no need to worry about accidentally scalding yourself, as the temperature control technology is top-tier.
Pricing
These two valves are similar in pricing, with a minor difference accounting for the design variation. The Moen 2520 is the best bang for your buck at $95, while the Moen 2510 valve costs $85. However, while this might seem steep for a simple valve, parts are readily available for this particular model, simplifying the repair process if the need arises.
Warranty
The warranty on both products is the same, as both feature limited lifetime warranties that cover finish defects, leaks, and drips. Moen’s warranty will ensure you don’t receive faulty parts or valves. On the off chance you receive a defective valve, you can contact Moen’s customer service for assistance navigating the warranty.
Which One Is Better?
When it comes down to choosing, it’s ultimately up to you. Each option has its merits, so you’ll have to decide which option is best for your home. For example, if you’re unfamiliar with soldering and don’t want to outsource the installation, the 2510 valve is the better choice.
On the flip side, if you’re sold on the rotating lever function, the 2520 is the superior choice. Since both valves feature similar components and are equal in performance, quality, and warranty coverage, you can’t go wrong with either.
Are All Moen Shower Cartridges The Same?
Not all Moen shower cartridges are the same, but a few are interchangeable. For example, the Moen 1200 and Moen 1225 are interchangeable, but the Moen 1222 PosiTemp cartridge isn’t interchangeable with the Moen 1225 or 1200.
Moen has historically used one of three valves: Standard, PosiTemp, and Moentrol. While they look similar, they’re not the same.
Are All Moen Valves Compatible?
Moen offers a few variations of shower rough-in valves, so trim kits aren’t interchangeable. Moen’s website says you need to identify the current valve by examining the escutcheon screw location and handle operation. The design of each valve varies, so they’re not necessarily compatible.