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How to Adjust the M-Core Temperature Limit Stop

The article will provide step-by-step instructions on how to adjust the maximum water temperature produced by a M-Core shower system. Moen recommends limiting the maximum temperature flowing from the shower to 120°F/49°C or less to prevent scalding.

Preparation: 

  • Recommended Tools: 3/32" Hex Wrench, Needle-Nose Pliers, Thermometer
  • We recommend covering the drain before beginning so as to not lose any parts down the drain.

The M-Core line is designed using a universal valve. Unlike a Moentrol or PosiTemp the M-Core Universal valve ships without the flow cartridge. This allows one valve to be used for a variety of shower systems. These systems include a 2 or 3 each offers different features. The cartridge ships with the appropriate series trim kit. The 3 Series handle adjusts the water temperate and lifts and closes to allow you to adjust the force of water exiting the system.  A  2 series handle only rotates to adjust the water temperature and there is only one level of pressure coming from the system.

Why Adjust the Temperature Limit Stop

The water that comes out of your showerhead or tub spout is usually close in temperature to what you've set on your hot water tank dial. In some areas of the country, this may be as high as 140°F/60°C. Showering at that high of a temperature is not considered safe, it is generally not recommended to exceed 120°F/49°C. To maintain a safe showering experience Moen supplies a part for your shower trim called a Temperature Limit Stop. This part allows you to adjust the range of temperature from your shower. Follow the steps below to modify your shower system's high-end temperature range.

Step 1-Begin by testing the current water temperature in your shower:

With the water supplies on to the system, you will need to turn your shower on. If the handle is not installed, place the handle on without tightening the screw. You will want to hold the handle on while moving it. Rotate or lift your handle and move the handle to the desired hot water setting.

Use a thermometer to confirm the water temperature does not exceed 120°F/49°C. If the temperature exceeds 120°F/49°C, the handle will need to be adjusted down to a cooler temperature.

Step 2-Access the Temperature Limit Stop:

3 Series-If your handle lifts to turn the system on:

Without moving the handle from the current hot water position, close the handle and gently pull it off. If the handle is installed use a 3/32" Hex wrench to loosen the set screw and remove the handle.

2 Series-If your handle rotates to turn the system on:

Without moving the handle from the current hot water position, gently pull the handle off. If the handle is installed use a 3/32" Hex wrench to loosen the set screw and remove the handle. Note: The water to the system will be running throughout this process.

Step 3-Adjust the Temperature Limit Stop:
3 Series: The handle rotates to adjust the water temperature and the system lifts and closes to adjust the force or volume. 

Remove the temperature limit stop (See Image 1). To position the temperature limit stop to the new calibration, turn it counter-clockwise so the tabs are located at the 10:00 and 4:00 positions. These tabs will correspond with the tabs on the front of the cartridge located at the 3:00 and 9:00 positions. The tabs on the temperature limit stop will sit above the tab on the cartridge at the 10:00 position, while the other tab will position under the tab on the cartridge at the 4:00 position.

Image 1 Tabs on the Temperature Limit Stop Tab on the Cartridge
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2 Series: The handle rotates only to adjust the water temperature, the system only provides one level of water pressure. 

Remove the temperature limit stop (See Image 1). To position the temperature limit stop to the new calibration, turn it counter-clockwise so the tab is located at the 8:00 position. The tab on the front of the cartridge is located between the 5:00 and 7:00 positions. The tab on the temperature limit stop will snap above the tab on the cartridge at the 8:00 position. 

Image 1 Tabs on the Temperature Limit Stop Tab on the Cartridge
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Step 4-Test the water temperature:

3 Series:

Place the handle on without tightening the set screw. Lift the handle to turn the water back on, and test the water temperature.

2 Series:

Test the water temperature. 

If the temperature is 120°F/49°C or less, rotate or close the handle and reattach the handle.

If the temperature is 120°F/49°C or more, repeat steps 1-4.

For additional information on M-Core Shower products, visit Single Handle Shower: M-Core at Solutions.moen.com


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