Can You Replace Shower Handle Without Replacing Valve?

You can replace a shower handle without replacing the valve. To replace the shower handle, you need to remove the old one and then install a new one. The installation process is not complicated, and it does not require any special tools.

Getting under the sink to disconnect the plumbing connections is the only thing that might be tricky. But if you have some basic knowledge of water fixtures, this should not be a problem for you.

You can generally remove the shower handle with a small flathead screwdriver if it has a flat surface parallel to the wall, though some might screw off. One-piece curved handles usually have a set screw under them. 

Can I Replace A Shower Handle Without Turning Off The Water?

Turning off the water supply is the first step in replacing a shower knob. It is common for shower units to have supply shutoff valves on the back or sides, but they are usually hidden behind walls. 

As long as you don’t have access to those supply lines and you’re not renovating a large shower, you’ll need to shut off your entire home’s water supply at the main shutoff valve. 

If there is still excess pressure in the pipe after the water has been shut off, place the valve in the on position to relieve it.

Taking The Handle Off

Find the screw that holds the shower knob handle in place. It could be underneath the decorative cap or under a set screw, depending on the style of the shower handle. You can use a small Phillips screwdriver or a hex-head wrench to remove the set screw. The handle should be removed from the valve after the set screw has been unscrewed.

Be aware that older handles, especially corroded ones, can be very difficult to remove. When this happens, you can use a special tool called a handle puller or apply some plumber’s lubricant to the handle.

You should remove the escutcheon plate from the wall after pulling out the handle of the valve. It is also known as a trim plate; this is the panel that covers the hole in the shower wall that leads to the valve.

Putting In The New Handle

Installing the new handle begins once the trim plate has been removed. Tape Teflon tape around the faucet stem base for this step. The new handle can be slid onto the faucet stem and secured with the set screw provided. Teflon tape should be wrapped around each stem of a double- or triple-handle system, and the screws should be used to secure each handle.

When the handles are in place, place your trim plate over the top of your new handle and screw it into place or snap it in, depending on your trim kit brand. Turn back on your water supply once the trim plate has been installed and enjoy your new faucet.

What Is The Best Way To Replace A Single-Handle Shower Faucet?

A variety of styles are available for shower handles, such as single-, double-, and triple-handles. There are a variety of ways to set up a shower-tub combo. It is more common for stand-alone showers to have a single handle, but double handles can also be found. It is essentially the same process for replacing any kind of handle, regardless of the type.

Remember that if you’re simply replacing a shower handle (or handles), you’ll want to make sure the replacement matches in color and style to the rest of the fixtures in your shower or tub. 

However, you should only replace a handle of the same style unless you are planning to replace the entire shower valve assembly. To put it another way, if you have a single-handle style, then you’ll need to replace it with another single-handle style.

Changing a tub spout, for instance, is more difficult than changing a handle, as spouts and their water pipe counterparts come in different lengths. Thus, you might be able to save time by replacing just the handles.

If you’d like to buy from the same manufacturer, you can find the manufacturer’s name behind the trim plate if it’s not listed on the handles themselves. Occasionally, you can also find model numbers behind trim plates or even under tub spouts, so take a look around while you’re at it.

If you are going to use a drain stopper or drop cloth to prevent small screws from falling down the drain, make sure you block the opening with the stopper or drop cloth before you begin. 

Small screws are often dropped and disappear into your plumbing, which means your shower handle replacement project must be halted while you head to your local hardware store to find the right screw.

Is It Possible To Replace Just The Handle On The Shower?

Yes, of course. Sometimes, simply replacing the shower handle without replacing the valve makes the most sense. The shower handle takes the brunt of the whole “taking a shower” process – turning and twisting, pushing and pulling. This age quickly for this reason. Also, there may be a style or finish you don’t like, and you are wondering how easily you can change them without having to hire a plumber.

You need not worry about this particular project. The process of replacing a shower knob or handle is usually pretty straightforward. Take a look at the following guide for guidance on removing an old shower faucet handle, replacing it, and moving on with your life.

How Long Does It Take To Replace A Shower Faucet?

Replacing a shower faucet is an easy DIY project that can be completed in under an hour. The process of replacing a shower faucet starts with removing the old faucet by unscrewing the hex nuts, removing the handle, and then disconnecting the supply lines. 

Once the old faucet is removed, clean up any debris that may have been left behind and install the new shower faucet. Add plumber’s putty to seal up any gaps and tighten down all of the screws.

Final Thoughts

You can always improve your shower experience with a good showerhead, a superior sponge, and the right soaps and shampoos, as well as a leak-proof handle.

The good news is that you can easily replace this essential shower control and its trim without wasting your valuable shower time.