Removing shower handle handles can vary depending on the type of handle you are working with. If you have an old-style stems and handles, you will need a few tools to remove it. You’ll need a regular and/or Phillips-head screwdriver, a hex wrench, and a basin wrench.
Start by turning off the water valve, and then use your screwdriver to remove the faceplate. This will expose the screws that hold the handle onto the stem. Use the appropriate sized hex wrench to loosen the screws and carefully remove the handle from the stem.
Then use the basin wrench to unscrew the stem from the wall. Once the stem is removed, you can replace it with a new one. However, if you are dealing with modern pressure balance type handles, the process is a bit different.
First, turn off the water supplies. With the water supplies shut off, you will then unscrew the handle from the valve itself. This is normally done with a small hex wrench or Allen key. With the handle removed, you can use the same hex wrench to remove the valve stem from the wall.
Once the stem has been removed, you can reinstall the new stem and handle.
Can you replace a shower handle without replacing the valve?
Yes, it is possible to replace a shower handle without replacing the valve. To do so, you will need to remove the existing handle and then carefully measure the distance between the holes of the valve.
Next, find a handle that matches the measurements of your existing valve and then begin to install it. To help with this, you may need to purchase an adapter kit in order to connect the handle to the valve.
Disconnect the handle from the valve and take it to your local hardware store or find a replacement online. Once you have the new handle, make sure all connections are secure, and reattach the handle to the valve.
Lastly, replace the outer casing of the handle if necessary, and you should now have a working shower handle without replacing the valve.
Do you have to replace valve when replacing shower handle?
No, you do not need to replace the valve when replacing a shower handle. Depending on the type of handle you have, you may be able to simply remove the handle, replace a washer, o-ring, or other small parts instead of replacing the entire handle or valve.
In this case, replacing the handle should only take a few minutes. On the other hand, if you are experiencing issues with your shower, such as a lack of water pressure, or the water temperature is not adjusting correctly, you may wish to consider replacing the entire valve.
Replacing the valve can help address these issues, as well as give you the opportunity to upgrade your shower setup with a new valve and handle.
Can I replace my shower knobs with any new ones?
Yes, you can replace your shower knobs with any new ones. The process of replacing shower knobs is fairly simple, and typically doesn’t require any special tools. Generally, the process involves unscrewing the old knobs and screws, typically with a flat head screwdriver, and then removing them.
Afterwards, you can replace them with new knobs and screws, ensuring that you secure them with the correct tools. However, it’s important to ensure that you use knobs and screws of the same size and material as the originals so that they fit properly.
Additionally, you should also ensure that all connections have been properly sealed with the appropriate plumber’s putty so that the new knobs and screws don’t leak. Finally, if you are unclear on how to replace your shower knobs, it is recommended that you speak to an experienced plumber or handyman to ensure that they are installed and working properly.
Are shower control valves Universal?
No, shower control valves are not universal. Shower control valves come in various styles, designs, sizes and brands, and each type has specific controls, components, and connections that might be incompatible with other valves and fixtures.
It is important to pay attention to the size and type of the shower control valve when purchasing one and ensure that it will fit and work with the existing plumbing and fixtures. Many shower control valves have specific qualifications regarding water pressure and compatibility which should be taken into consideration before making a purchase.