Moen 1225 vs 1225b Testing [2021] Which Cartridge is Best?

Moen is a trusted and renowned company in the world of faucets. They make different types of faucets, starting from shower tubs to kitchen ones. All of their products maintain a different standard and unique design that makes them easy to use.

Al Moen launched this company back in the 60s to renovate the faucet world, and he has rightly done so. If you ask plumbers to name two of the best Moen cartridges for replacing broken faucets, then the names of the two models–Moen 1225 and 1225B–would come up. But which one should you buy?

To solve the debate of Moen 1225 vs 1225b, we have prepared this article listing the features, pros, and cons of both. Read ahead to know more and make your choice!

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Moen 1225 vs 1225b Comparison – At A Glance

Name	Moen 1225 Cartridge	Moen 1225b Cartridge
Image
Compatibility	All Moen	All Moen
Construction	Brass construction	Brass construction
Price	Check Price	Check Price

Moen 1225 Cartridge –

Features

Size: 1 Pack
Style: Replacement Part
Material: Brass and plastic
Dimensions: 8.5 x 2.5 x 1 inches

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How Is Moen 1225 Cartridge

Moen 1225 cartridge is the perfect replacement choice for any Moen one-handle faucets leaking or facing any other issues. The only problem with this model is its incompatibility with any tap with the PosiTemp and ExactTemp valve.

This Moen 1225 cartridge review will give you a brief idea about its uses and all the other accompanying details you need to know about it to make your decision:

Users

Suppose your kitchen or bathroom sink comes with a Moen one-handle kitchen or bathroom faucet, and it is facing any sort of operational issue. In that case, you can use the Moen 1225 cartridge on it as a replacement valve and solve your problem.

Correct Time for Implementation

If you face any issues like difficulty to turn the faucet on, regulate the flow of hot and cold water, or leakage with your Moen one-handle kitchen or bathroom faucet, you can use the Moen 1225 cartridge to fix it.

Where to Use it

This valve system will only work on Moen manufactured items. Make sure to put it on Moen’s one-handle faucets to obtain optimum results. However, it does not work on any Moen faucets that use the PosiTemp or ExactTemp technology.

Top Features

If you face plumbing issues with any of your Moen faucets, this cartridge will work as a significant replacement part for it. Since this valve system is made of brass, it does not get rusted and remains in good condition for a long time.

Therefore, if you want a durable product, you should go for it. Besides, the installation process to put this into place is also very easy, which saves you from the trouble of calling a plumber. You will get a twisting cap along with its package, which will facilitate the installation process.

Pros

Has an affordable price
Simple installation procedure
Brass construction enhances its quality and durability
Package contains a twisting cap to assist in the installation process
Suitable for use on Moen one-handle kitchen and bathroom faucets

Cons

Only limited for use on Moen products

Moen 1225b Cartridge –

Features

Size: 1 Pack
Style: Replacement Part
Material: Brass
Dimensions: 7 x 2 x 1 inches

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9.8

How Is Moen 1225b Cartridge

Moen 1225b cartridge is almost identical to the Moen 1225 cartridge except that it is made of plastic instead of brass. Another difference lies in the packaging, but both are quite similar to each other in terms of features. This model, too, can be used as a perfect replacement choice for any Moen one-handle faucets.

We have reviewed the Moen 1225b cartridge in detail below to give you a better understanding of how it works and when you should get it:

Users

Anyone who is using a Moen faucet can use this item if their kitchen or bathroom one-handle faucet has broken down. This product works as a great replacement valve.

Correct Time for Implementation

Sometimes when the faucets become old and worn out, they start to leak water, the handle gets stuck, or the desired temperature of the water cannot be maintained. In this situation, you can replace the existing valve with the Moen 1225b cartridge.

Where to Use It

This valve system, too, is only compatible with Moen manufactured faucets and shower tubs. But just like the 1225 model, it does not work on any Moen faucets that use the PosiTemp or ExactTemp technology.

Top Features

Calling a plumber to replace a valve system can incur additional costs that might prove to be too heavy on your budget. Keeping this in mind, Moen makes the installation process of their 1225b replacement cartridge very easy.

Moreover, this product is made of plastic, which is less likely to get stuck during the time of removal in comparison to a brass cartridge. It comes in the bulk package, for which its name contains a ‘b.’

Pros

Has an affordable price
Simple installation procedure
Brass construction enhances its quality and durability
Package contains a twisting cap to assist in the installation process
Suitable for use on Moen one-handle kitchen and bathroom faucets

Cons

Only limited for use on Moen products
Does not support the PosiTemp or ExactTemp Valve technology

What Is the Difference Between Moen 1225 and 1225b Cartridges?

The main confusion that you might face when you see the model numbers of these two products is whether they are the same or if there is any difference or not.

Although most of their features are identical, there are some decisive factors that create some differences between the two. We have tried our best to clear your doubts by pointing out the clear distinctions between the two products:

Packaging

Although, at first glance, the packaging of the two might seem to be the same, it has some differences.

As a matter of fact, the main difference between these two models lies in their packaging. The 1225 model comes in a retail pack, whereas the 1225b pack comes in bulk packaging. And the letter ‘b’ stands for bulk packaging.

Construction

How a product is constructed determines its life and longevity to a great extent. It also plays a huge role in its performance. If the construction of a product is made with quality items, then it lasts for a long time and gives the user a smooth experience.

On the other hand, if a product is made with cheap materials, it breaks down easily and does not perform well.

To ensure durability, the Moen 1225 cartridge is made of brass. This gives it a strong and durable finish. Brass is a material that does not get damaged easily.

Moreover, since the valve system will frequently come in contact with water, there is a possibility of rust formation. To prevent that, brass is a great material as it does not get rusted easily.

On the other hand, the Moen 1225b is made of plastic, which makes it lighter and easier to carry.

Process of Removal

Once the life of a cartridge ends, it needs to be removed to be replaced with another. What puts the Moen 1225b ahead of the 1225 model is its ease of removal.

Since the first model is made of plastic, it does not get stuck on the valve housing for which it is easier to remove.

On the other hand, the 1225 model is made of brass, and prolonged use causes calcium deposition on it. This makes it stuck on the valve housing, and you might have to replace the entire valve body to get rid of the brass cartridge.

Comparison Table

Name	Moen 1225 Cartridge	Moen 225b Cartridge
Type	Cartridge	Cartridge
Warranty	Limited	Limited
Compatibility	All Moen	All moen
Instructions	Instructions included	No
Includes	Replacement Parts or Service Kit	Twisting cap
Dimensions	8.50 x 2.50 x 1.00 inches	7.00 x 2.00 x 1.00 inches
Material	Brass and plastic	Brass
Price	Check Price	Check Price

FAQ's

Q: How long do Moen cartridges last?

Ans: The Moen cartridges have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years. So, if you use them properly, you can go with one cartridge for more than a decade.

Q: What is the procedure to remove a Moen 1225 and 1225b cartridge?

Ans: At first, a hex wrench is needed to unscrew the connection of the handle with the faucet. Next, the adapter needs to be removed in order to pull the entire handle system out. Lastly, you have to pull the faucet escutcheon to find the old cartridge and discard it.

Q: When should I replace the cartridge of my Moen faucet?

Ans: If you face issues like water leaking, inability to move the handle smoothly, disruption of the flow of hot or cold water, then you should immediately replace its existing cartridge with a new one.

Q: What is the main difference between a Moen 1225 and a Moen 1225b cartridge?

Ans: Although both the models are identical in terms of their features, the 1225 model is made of brass, whereas the 1225b model is made of plastic.

Q: What should be the deciding factor to determine whether to buy the Moen 1225 or the 1225b model?

Ans: If you do not prefer a sticky cartridge that will require you to replace the entire valve system, then you should go for the plastic cartridge, which is the Moen 1225b model. However, if you would like something more durable, then the Moen 1225 model made of brass is the wiser choice.

Final Words

Now, that we have explained where the main difference lies in the Moen 1225 vs. 1225b debate, there should not remain any confusion regarding your purchasing decision. So, depending on whether you prefer a brass cartridge or a plastic one, you can make your final pick.

10/10 Total Score

Moen 1225 Cartridge -

The team that worked on this review