Name: Video for Remove the old valve
Uploaded: 2025-07-16T08:01:59.763Z
Duration: 35 s
Description: Remove the handle screw, pull the handle off the valve stem, and then use a pipe wrench to loosen and remove the old valve.

Remove the handle screw, pull the handle off the valve stem, and then use a pipe wrench to loosen and remove the old valve.

Remove the old valve

Turning

How to Replace a Shower Knob or Handle: A DIY Guide

Turn Off the Shower's Water Supply

Remove the Old Shower Handle Screw(s)

Remove the Old Shower Handle

Screwdriver

Pipe Wrench

With the central screw removed, grasp the gray plastic handle adapter and pull it straight off the valve assembly.

Remove the Handle Adapter

Pulling

Once the screw is removed, pull the gray plastic handle adapter off the valve stem.

If the handle itself is loose on the stem, locate the set screw, which is typically on the back of the handle. Use the correct size Allen wrench to turn the screw counter-clockwise. You only need to loosen it enough to lift the handle off; you do not need to remove the screw completely. After loosening, pull the handle straight up and off the splined valve stem.

Loosen Set Screw and Remove Handle

Unscrewing

Use an Allen wrench to loosen the set screw on the back of the handle, then lift the handle off the valve stem.

Keep a set of both metric and imperial Allen wrenches handy, as faucet hardware can vary.

Make sure the sink drain is closed before loosening the set screw to avoid losing it.

Allen Wrenches

Begin by removing the decorative cap from the center of the main faucet handle. Use a small pick tool or flathead screwdriver to carefully pry it off. Once the cap is off, use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the retaining screw. If the handle is stuck due to corrosion, use a faucet handle puller. Position the puller's arms behind the handle and tighten the center screw to safely pull the handle off the valve stem without causing damage.

Remove the Faucet Handle

Prying

Pulling (with tool)

The first step is to access the valve by removing the main faucet handle. This involves prying off the decorative cap, unscrewing the retaining screw, and using a handle puller if the handle is seized.

A handle puller is the recommended tool for stubborn handles to prevent cracking the handle or damaging the valve stem.

Flathead Screwdriver

Pick Tool

Phillips Head Screwdriver

Faucet Handle Puller

First, carefully remove the decorative cap from the top of the handle. Use a thin, flat tool like a small knife or flathead screwdriver to gently pry it off. Be careful not to break the plastic clips. Once the cap is removed, you will see either a screw or just the top of the valve stem. If there is a screw, use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove it. If there is no screw, you can simply pull the handle straight up and off the valve stem.

Disassemble the Valve Handle

Pry off the handle cap and then either unscrew or pull off the handle to access the valve stem and O-ring.

Use a thin-bladed tool and be gentle to avoid breaking the plastic clips on the cap.