Can a temperature control valve be installed and used with an older shower that has separate hot and cold taps?

Not really, you would be better to install a single handle and use an escutcheon "remodel" plate to cover the holes. Do you have access to the back of the wall containing the plumbing?

I'm not sure an escutcheon plate would be wide/long enough to cover the holes:( It's a cheap, basement small plastic shower stall... just don't want the kids scalded or frozen whenever any other tap is running. We haven't opened the complete wall up quite yet but it's happening soon:)

You can buy hole covers that will snap in if the hole is round. I have also seen a small access panel epoxied in place. If the wall can be easily accessed you can use sharkbite fittings and flexible connectors.

Nice! Thank you so much... much appreciated.

Hi ChrisTina

Ma0641 is talking about a remodeler plate and those plates are about 10-12" wide, so it should have no problem covering your old, plastic shower valve (usually only 4" center to center of handles)... see images.

The first remodeler plate below is one used with moen shower valves (valve not shown) and the other plate is a symmons plate (shown with valve trim in place).

Any of these should work for you.

Mark

Hi ChrisTina

Ma0641 is talking about a remodeler plate and those plates are about 10-12" wide, so it should have no problem covering your old, plastic shower valve (usually only 4" center to center of handles)....see images.

The first remodeler plate below is one used with moen shower valves (valve not shown) and the other plate is a symmons plate (shown with valve trim in place).

Any of these should work for you.

Mark
Thanks Mark, Brian

Glad to help, Brian! If you care to learn how to post the pics. Just let me know and I'll walk you through the process, OK?

Mark

You could add a thermostatic mixing valve to the hot side of the faucet if you have good access to the supply piping. However, I agree with both experts that replacing the two handle with a single handle would be the best way to go. All new single handle shower valves have an adjustable temp regulating device to prevent scalding. I recommend purchasing a Moen product, as they have one of the simplest adjustments.

Thank you everyone! We are going with the change out and replacing the old 2 handles with one. We found an awesome MOEN with a temp. control valve. All your comments are greatly appreciated - it made our decision and product search so much easier! Again, THANK YOU all!

Thank you everyone! We are going with the change out and replacing the old 2 handles with one. We found an awesome MOEN with a temp. control valve. All your comments are greatly appreciated - it made our decision and product search so much easier! Again, THANK YOU all!

Glad to help.