Valve Comparision Moen vs. Artos
In an industry dominated by such names as Moen, Delta, Kohler we are a smaller, lesser-known brand. As anyone in the industry knows, the shower valve is a crucial part of any product offering and a great barometer of the quality of a brand. You want to be sure that the products you are investing in for your home or project will stand the test of time, but also be able to be repaired easily when the time arises.So, one of the first questions we receive from our customers and those who install our products is, how good is your shower valve?
This blog and video were created to answer that very question. Let's take a look at the Moen 999 valve compared to the F962VO Artos pressure balance valve.
Valve Quality
The first thing we can compare between the two valves is their overall weight. Typically when we think of something being heavier we associate that with better quality. Why does this matter? When we look at the Moen and Artos valves side-by-side we can see the weight differences.
So as you can see by the image below the Moen and Artos valve do not weigh the same. So the first thing i notice is the weight. I have a weight scale here to reiterate the point.
Artos Valve =
- More durability
- solid brass
- better construction, thicker sidewalls, more solid brass throughout
- Stand up over time better.
The Cartridge - The Working Components
Second point to consider is the cartridge. This is a crucial working part. Here they are side by side, both are made of a plastic which works great for the working parts as they prevent limescale build up that you'll find on metal parts. Our cartridge uses a ceramic disc mechanism for long lasting and smooth performance, rather than a rubber washer mechanism. I imagine the Moen cartridge has that too but can't confirm by looking at it from the outside.
What's the Takeaway?
So in conclusion, Moen has been a brand that homeowners and plumbers have used for decades. When comparing our valve with theirs, it either meets the standard of a Moen valve such as the cartridge comparison, or greatly exceeds it as shown in the weight and cross-section comparison.
If you're a plumber and concerned about availability of spare parts if they're needed down the road, please reach out to us and we'll get you a parts kit sent so you have them on hand when and if needed.
