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Remove Faucet Handle — Remove the Shower Handle

Beginner3 hours

Part of project

Refresh Your Bathroom: A Step-by-Step Guide to Shower Trim Replacement · Step 2 of 5

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In this video

To remove the faucet handle, first use a small, flathead screwdriver to carefully pry off the decorative cap located on the side of the handle. This will expose a set screw. Insert an Allen wrench into the set screw and turn it counter-clockwise to loosen it. You do not need to remove the screw completely. Once loose, pull the handle straight up and off the faucet body.

Goal: Access the faucet's internal components.

  • The cap is small and can be easily lost. Place it in a small bowl or container.

Used in this video

  • Small Flathead Screwdriver (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Screwdriver, Screwdriver Head Type: Flathead, Material: Metal, Plastic) — Prying off the decorative handle cap.
  • Allen Wrench (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Allen Wrench, Allen Wrench Size: Imperial, Material: Metal) — Loosening the set screw that secures the handle.
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FAQs

What specific tools will I need beyond the listed screwdrivers, especially for removing the handle?

You'll almost certainly need an Allen wrench or hex key set for the handle's setscrew. A utility knife can be helpful for scoring old caulk or stubborn seals, and a flashlight improves visibility in tight spaces. Pliers might also be useful for gripping and turning any stuck nuts or components.

What should I do if the main water supply valve to the shower doesn't completely stop the water flow?

If water still drips after turning off the local shut-off valve, it might be faulty or not fully closed. Try turning off the main water supply to your entire house, usually located near your water meter or main shut-off. If the problem persists, you may need a plumber to inspect or repair the valve before proceeding to avoid water damage.

My old shower handle or escutcheon is stuck due to corrosion or caulk; what's the best way to remove it without causing damage?

For corroded parts, apply a penetrating lubricant and let it sit for a while to help loosen rust. If caulk is the issue, carefully score around the edges of the escutcheon with a utility knife. Use gentle prying with a non-marring tool, like a plastic putty knife or a wide, flat screwdriver, to avoid scratching your shower surround.

Is the 3-hour estimated time realistic for a beginner, and what factors could make the project take longer?

The 3-hour estimate is realistic for a straightforward replacement with easily removable parts. However, older fixtures, significant corrosion, stripped screws, or unexpected compatibility issues with new trim can extend the project duration. Always budget extra time, especially if it's your first time tackling this type of DIY.

Transcript
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And you're going to proceed to remove the handle. To remove the handle, you're going to use the small screwdriver. And you're going to pop the little cover that's inside the faucet. Once you pop that, you'll have access to the little screw that holds the handle in place. So to remove the cap, you're going to go inside and pop it. Since I already loosened it, I'm going to skip that part. But I'll show you. This is the cap that you have to remove to access the screw. So as you can see, once you pop it, it'll come out. Okay. With a handle still in place, you're going to take your Allen wrench, you're going to put it into the hole, and you're going to remove the screw that holds the handle in place. And this is the little screw that you need to remove. Once you do that, then the faucet, the handle for the faucet, comes off like that.

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.