[Ledeen]

I have a Mico Designs Thermostatic 2 handle system in my shower.

It started not putting out hot water, and had to keep raising the temperature until now its on the hotest setting but only outs out lukewarm water even though all other fixtures in the bathroom and throughout the house are fine and get hot.

This was only installed about 5 years ago and the house is now a rental.

I have looked online and can only find the entire rough in valve (to purchase) verses buying just the temperature cartridge. Was hoping if anyone else has experience with this brand and can tell me if there is any other option to fix besides replacing the entire Thermostatic valve.

Again it is a Two Handle system, has a separate handle to control water, and then the lower one that controls the temperature.

Thanks

[Milo Dolezal]

It would be very helpful if you tell us the Model Number or at least post a pic of the valve so we can try to ID it for you.

Back to you. Milo

[Ledeen]

It is Mico VX-1050 1/2in. Thermostatic Valve (thats the rough in part#) however I called Mico and they stated the shower cartridge is supposed to be cleaned once annually (never heard of this before) and that its most likely got calcium deposits.

He said it simply needed to be cleaned and emailed me instructions on cleaning however my plumber couldn't get the cartridge out. So I have bought one as a spare, and am contacting Mico back on Monday to get more specific info on how that valve is removed.

He tried unscrewing it - said most of these cartridges are screwed in but it wouldn't turn, and he did not want to break it since the tenant would only let him come out on the weekend.

[Milo Dolezal]

I am enclosing exploded view of your faucet. It looks like it has thread on the inside but cannot tell for sure. There is MICO's phone number. Call their technical department and ask them if the cartridge "unscrews" or "pulls out". Should be 2 minute call and simple answer.

Expect to fight it when taking out as there is set of O-rings that may be stiff. Also, build up of calcium on the interior won't help.

Back to you. Milo

[StacyFixit]

I had the same issue with mine. Problem is, that when you put a wrench or socket on the cartridge, only the center part comes out and not the screens that need to be cleaned. I just could not figure it out until after a year, I FINALLY found someone at Mico that was very helpful. I unscrewed the inner part of the cartridge and dried it thoroughly. Then I applied a light coat of epoxy on the threads and tightened it back in securely. I gave it a day to ensure it was thoroughly cured.
Then when I unscrewed it, the OUTER threads that screw the whole assembly into the body turned and the whole cartridge came out. (really a piss poor design! ) Make sure you turn off your water supply before doing this.
Once this is removed you can clean the cartridge in a des caller like CLR. Clean it thoroughly and your temp control should be restored.
Good luck! Probably a good idea to find some spare o-rings. They are easily damaged, especially if they are old, and without them, you are in big trouble.

[massplumber2008]

Hi Stacy

Thanks for posting the information. I am sure it will be helpful to a lot of people over the years!!