Over time, the metal layer on the shower handle can become dull and tarnished, so if you want to replace your shower handle, you may wonder about replacing it without replacing or damaging valves. Because screwing on a replacement or valves may damage. So in this article, I will discuss Can You Replace Shower Handle Without Replacing Valves? And will share different things related to this matter.
It’s quite normal that the shower handle may become dull, loose, or tarnish, so you can replace it easily without replacing the valves. Here I will share with you exact details about it, so you can also make it yourself.
Can You Replace Just The Shower Handle?
Yes, you can simply replace just the shower handle. All you need is to change out the shower handle and sprouts by using a replacement kit which you can purchase from any store or a plumbing manufacturer shop. You can use a universal replacement kit for this work.
For proper fixing, you must know the existing shower handle type; if you don’t know what type of shower handle replacement you should buy, you can visit a nearby plumbing supply store to find a matching replacement for the existing shower handle.
After having a new shower handle, you must check the valve stem; if there is no damage, you can install the new one. Otherwise, you must first replace the valve stem and then the shower handle. Also, you must know about the type of shower handle because it differs from the manufacturers.
Under the shower handle, some types have a small set screw; others have a pop-off sheet with Phillips screws under it, and another type also has a pop-off cover. As a general rule, if it has a flat surface parallel to the wall, you can usually pop it off with a small flathead screwdriver, although some might screw off. If it’s a one-piece curved handle, it usually has a set screw under it.
How To Replace A Shower Handle?
It’s simple to replace a shower handle; first, you have to know about the shower handle type; as I discussed in the above paragraph, it has a set screw beneath it so that you can easily replace it by following these simple steps.
- You must turn off the water supply before starting your work.
- Now unscrew the old shower handle with a set screw.
- Remove the existing handle from the valve.
- You can add lumber lubricant if your hands are eroded.
- Remove the shower trim plate.
- After removing it, wrap the faucet stem with the help of Teflon tape.
- Now, screw the new handle in its place.
- Replace the shower trim plate.
- Check the shower handle grip.
- Now you are done with the new shower handle, wait for at least 5-10 minutes once you are done, and then check it properly.
Can I Change Shower Handle Without Turning Off The Water?
You can’t change the shower handle without turning off the water, as the first step to replace the shower handle starts with turning off the water. You need to turn off the water to settle the position of the valve to overcome the pressure that might still exist in the water pipe.
After turning off the water, you can easily replace the shower handle.
Required Tools To Replace Shower Handle.
You should have the required tools and material so that you can easily replace the shower handle on your own; the tools and material include:
- 4-in-1 screwdriver.
- One pipe wrench.
- Replacement kit
- Teflon or Acrylic tape.
Types of Valves
Generally, there are two types of valves used in shower heads these are pressure balance shower valves and thermostatic shower valves. The purposes of both of these valves are different. So let’s have a look at them to know the purpose of the valves.
Pressure Balance Shower Valves
This type of valve is operated by sensing the volume-to-volume ratio of cold water and hot water. Additionally, it adjusts the temperature of the water continuously and provides the water with the chosen temperature.
These valves adjust and control both factors the water volume and temperature at the same time. You can also change the single factor if you want to. For instance, by adjusting the valve you can also change the temperature of the water only.
Thermostatic Shower Valve
The thermostatic shower valve is operated by detecting the actual temperature of incoming water. After detecting the temperature of incoming water it will adjust the hot and cold flow of the water so that it can maintain a steady temperature.
By using the thermostatic shower valve you can separately adjust the water temperature and water volume. This type of valve comprises two controls. One control is temperature and the second is volume.
The temperature of the water always remains the same it does not matter if the water here is trickling or running with the full blast.
Working of The Valves
The valves pressure balance shower work by maintaining a balanced flow between hot and cold water. On the other hand, the thermostatic valve works by maintaining the temperature of the water rather than the volume.
The pressure balance shower senses the volume, not the temperature. The thermostatic shower valves contain a wax knob that will adjust the expansion and contraction with respect to the heat reaction. Ultimately these types od wax work flawlessly.
Final Thoughts
It’s okay to replace the old shower handle with a new one; it will give you a smooth showering experience. I have shared easy and quick steps to replace the shower handle. In case of any questions, feel free to post them in the comment section.
