Alexei Volkov
Plastic shower faucet handles can crack, break, or simply become unsightly over time. Luckily, replacing them is a quick, easy, and inexpensive way to redecorate your bathroom. The process is relatively simple and can be done in just a few hours, but if you're unsure, consider seeking professional help. Before starting, make sure to turn off the water supply and cover the shower drain with a cloth to prevent small parts from falling into the opening. Then, look for the set screw that holds the handle in place. Once you've located it, use a screwdriver or Allen key to remove the screw and detach the handle. Finally, fit the new handle according to the instructions that came with it, and test the temperature to ensure it's safe.
Characteristics and Values Table for Replacing a Plastic Shower Faucet Handle:
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Water Supply | Shut off the water supply to the shower. |
| Drain Protection | Cover the drain with a rag or cloth to catch any falling parts. |
| Screw Removal | Locate the set screw holding the handle in place, often covered by a plastic plate, and remove it with a screwdriver or Allen key. |
| Handle Removal | Slide or pry off the handle, or unscrew it if attached to a threaded stem. |
| Sealant | For threaded faucet stems, wrap thread sealant tape before screwing on the new handle. |
| Trim Plate | Put the trim plate back on before attaching the new handle. |
| Handle Installation | Fit the new handle onto the stem valve, screwing it in place for threaded handles. |
| Set Screw | Insert and tighten the set screw to secure the handle. |
| Testing | Turn on the water and test the new handle, adjusting the temperature as needed. |
| Cleanliness | Use a shower cleaner to wipe the shower valve before installing the new handle. |
| Compatibility | Choose a replacement handle that is compatible with your old fittings to avoid extensive plumbing work. |
| Handle Type | Select a handle type that matches the brand and style of your other bathroom fittings, such as brass, plastic, or chrome. |
| Spacer | Check if your new handle set includes a spacer, and fit it into place inside the handle before installation. |
| Knob Cover | Push the knob cover into place over the central screw, ensuring it sits flat against the handle. |
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What You'll Learn
Shut off the water supply
Shutting off the water supply to your shower is an essential first step in replacing your shower handle. This will prevent any water damage and costly repairs.
Firstly, you need to locate the shut-off valve. In some homes, there may be individual shut-off valves for specific fixtures, such as the shower. These are usually located in the wall behind the shower or in an access panel. If you cannot find a shut-off valve for the shower, there may be a valve that controls the water supply to the entire bathroom or even the whole house. This could be located in the basement, or behind a panel in the wall of the bathroom.
Once you have located the correct shut-off valve, turn it clockwise until it stops. This will shut off the water supply to the shower. You can check that the water flow has stopped by turning on a faucet inside your home. If no water comes out, you have successfully shut off the water supply.
If you have an older home, you may have a gate valve instead of a ball valve. Gate valves can be a bit more delicate and tricky to operate. Locate the valve near the water meter or the main water line entrance, then slowly turn the valve handle clockwise until it stops. Again, check that the water flow has ceased by turning on a faucet.
Now that you have shut off the water supply, you can proceed with replacing your shower handle.
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Remove the old handle
Before you begin, it is important to shut off the water supply to the shower. Spread a rag over the drain to prevent a loose screw from falling down the drain. You should also place a blanket or piece of cardboard on the floor of your tub or shower base to protect against dropped tools.
Now, look for the set screw that holds the handle in place. It is often covered by a plastic plate that you can pop off with a fingernail or screwdriver tip. The set screw may also be on the underside of the handle and may be hard to see. Remove the set screw using a screwdriver or Allen key. A single handle should now slide off. You may need to pry it off if it is corroded. Alternatively, if your handle is screwed onto a threaded stem, you will need to use a wrench to grip the handle and turn it. For a stubborn handle, use a faucet handle puller.
If your shower has two or three handles, they may be screwed onto faucet stems. In this case, you will need to remove old tape and wrap the threaded faucet stems with new thread sealant tape before screwing on the new handles.
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Prepare the new handle
To prepare the new handle, you will need to purchase a replacement handle that matches the size and brand of the old one. Take the old handle and screw to a hardware or plumbing store to find a compatible replacement. If you cannot find the same brand, opt for a universal faucet handle that can fit most fittings.
Before installing the new handle, ensure that you have turned off the water supply. You can then proceed to fit the new handle. If you have threaded faucet stems, remove any old tape and wrap them with new thread sealant tape. If your new handle comes with a spacer, insert it inside the handle as per the instructions that came with the set. Slide the handle onto the stem valve for a slide-on handle, or screw it onto the taped stems for threaded handles.
Use a Phillips head screwdriver or Allen key to attach the screws to your new handle. The number of screws will depend on how many came with your set. Turn the screwdriver or key clockwise to tighten the screw. The screws typically go in the centre of the new shower handle. Push the knob cover into place, ensuring that it is sitting flat against the handle.
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Install the new handle
Before installing the new handle, ensure that you have chosen a shower faucet that is compatible with your old fittings. This will make it easier to replace and install yourself. If you get a knob that is incompatible with your old fitting, you may need to replace the shower valve, which often requires extensive plumbing work.
Now, to install the new handle:
First, make sure you have turned off the water supply. Then, spread a rag over the drain to prevent screws from falling down the drain. If your shower has two or three handles, wrap the threaded faucet stems with thread sealant tape before screwing on the new handles. For a single handle that slides directly onto the internal stem valve, no tape is needed.
Next, fit the new handle onto the stem valve. If your handle is threaded, screw it onto the taped stems. If your handle is a slide-on type, simply push it into place over the existing fitting. Some new handle sets may come with a spacer that you need to insert before pushing the new handle on. Make sure to follow any instructions that came with your set.
After that, insert and tighten the set screw to keep the handle in place. Use a Phillips head screwdriver or Allen key to attach the screws into your new handle. The number of screws you attach depends on how many came with the set you bought. Simply turn the screwdriver or key clockwise to tighten the screw. The screws usually go in the very center of the new shower handle.
Finally, turn on the water supply and test the handle. Make sure there are no leaks, then slip on the handle and turn the water to the hottest position. Test the temperature, then turn off the water and remove the handle to gain access to the temperature limit stop. Adjust the temperature limit stop according to your desired maximum temperature. Refer to your faucet's instructions and check after each adjustment.
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Test the new handle
Once you have installed your new shower faucet handle, you will want to test it to ensure it works correctly and there are no leaks. Here is a step-by-step guide to testing your new handle:
Check the Handle is Secure:
Before turning the water supply back on, ensure the new handle is secure and correctly fitted. Check that any screws are tightened and the handle is correctly aligned with the valve. If your handle has a cover plate, ensure this is also securely in place.
Turn on the Water Supply:
Now, slowly turn the water supply back on. The exact procedure may vary depending on your handle type. For wheel-shaped handles, turn the supply valve a quarter revolution, pause, and then fully open the line. For lever handles, turn the valve one-eighth of a revolution, wait a few seconds, then turn it back to its original position, parallel with the pipe.
Test for Leaks:
Before testing the handle itself, ensure there are no leaks. Cap off the shower head and tub spout connections if you have them. Screw a test cap onto the valve and tighten the bonnet nut. Check all connections to ensure no leaks are present.
Test the Temperature:
Now, turn on the water and test the handle. Ensure the handle moves smoothly and easily. Test both hot and cold water supplies and check the temperature. To prevent scalding, set the outlet temperature no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Turn the water to the hottest position and test the temperature.
Adjust as Needed:
If adjustments are needed, turn off the water and remove the handle to access the temperature limit stop. This is usually a ring or clip that can be adjusted by prying it up and turning it clockwise or counterclockwise. Reinsert the ring or clip, then check the temperature after each adjustment until you reach the desired maximum.
Final Checks:
Once you are happy with the temperature settings, perform final checks. Ensure the handle operates smoothly and the water flow is consistent. Check for any leaks again, and ensure the handle is secure and does not wobble or feel loose.
Your new shower faucet handle should now be fully installed and operational.
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Frequently asked questions
First, shut off the water supply to your shower. Next, look for the set screw that holds the handle in place. It may be covered by a plastic plate that you can pop off with a screwdriver. Remove the set screw, then slide or twist the handle off.
You should buy a handle that is compatible with your old fittings. This will make it easier to replace and install yourself. If you buy a handle that is incompatible, you may need to replace the shower valve, which requires extensive plumbing work.
Follow the instructions that came with your handle to install it correctly. You will likely need to screw the screws into the new handle using a Phillips head screwdriver or an Allen key. Finally, push the knob cover into place.
Turn on the water supply and test the handle. Make sure there are no leaks, then turn the water to the hottest position and test the temperature. You may need to adjust the temperature limit stop to prevent scalding.
