Looking for help?

Find answers to your questions

How Do I Calibrate and Set the F973AVO Temperature Handle?

F973AVO Thermostatic Cartridge Calibration and Handle Setup

If the temperature control on your F973AVO continues to rotate when turned clockwise, this does not indicate that the cartridge is loose or spinning inside the valve.

The thermostatic cartridge is designed to reach its stop when rotated counterclockwise, not clockwise. This counterclockwise stop represents the maximum temperature setting allowed by the valve.

How to Calibrate the Temperature Control

  1. Rotate the thermostatic cartridge counterclockwise until it reaches its stop. This is the hottest position the valve will allow.
  2. Turn the water on.
  3. From the maximum-temperature position, rotate the cartridge clockwise until the water reaches your preferred temperature.
  4. Once the desired temperature is reached, install the temperature limiting ring supplied with the handle.
    • Position the ring with the semicircle oriented to the left.
  5. Install the temperature control handle with the override button at the 12 o'clock position, facing straight up.

Using the Temperature Control

Once calibrated and assembled:

  • To make the water hotter, press the override button and rotate the handle counterclockwise.
  • To make the water cooler, rotate the handle clockwise.

A Note About Cold Water

The F973AVO uses a thermostatic mixing valve, which continuously mixes hot and cold water to regulate the outlet temperature. Because of this, the valve is not designed to provide completely cold, unmixed water. At its coolest setting, the outlet will still be mixed water.

If the handle is installed and calibrated using the steps above, the valve is operating as intended.

Updated on 09 Sep 2026