Can I just replace the shower faucet handle?

Quick Answer

It is possible to replace just the shower faucet handle in many cases. However, there are a few factors to consider:

• If the faucet uses a cartridge or ceramic disc valve, you likely can replace just the handle. These valves have separate handle and cartridge/disc components.
• If the faucet has a compression valve, the valve is usually integrated into the handle so you may need to replace the entire faucet.
• The specific model of your faucet will determine if handle-only replacement is possible. You’ll need to inspect the faucet and identify the valve type.
• Replacing just the handle is an easier, quicker, and cheaper fix than replacing the entire faucet.

So in summary, handle-only replacement is often possible with cartridge and ceramic disc faucets but may not be possible on compression valve types. You’ll need to identify your specific faucet valve to know if handle replacement is feasible.

Identifying Your Shower Faucet Valve Type

The first step is to determine what type of valve is inside your shower faucet. This will tell you if replacing just the handle is an option. The three main types of shower faucet valves are:

• Cartridge: Cartridge faucets have a handle that controls a cylindrical cartridge. The cartridge includes the washers, seals, and inlets for controlling water flow and mix. The handle and cartridge are separate components.
• Ceramic disc: Ceramic disc valves use two ceramic discs with small holes to control water flow. Like cartridges, the discs and handle are separate pieces.
• Compression: Compression faucets have a handle that is directly connected to internal washers and seats. The handle and valve are one integrated unit.

Cartridge and ceramic disc faucet valves allow just the handle to be replaced since the valve mechanism is a separate component. With compression faucets, you usually need to replace everything since the handle and valve are one unit.

To identify your shower faucet type:

• Remove the handle and inspect the faucet stem. A cartridge faucet will have a cylindrical cartridge you can remove. A ceramic disc valve will have two discs.
• Look for screw holes on the side of the faucet body. These indicate a cartridge or ceramic disc style valve.
• Check for identifying markings like “cartridge” or a brand name like “Moen” that uses cartridges.
• Compression faucets typically have a smooth stem without removable parts.

If you can’t easily identify the valve type, check the installation or owner’s manual. The faucet model information can also be used to look up what type of valve a particular model uses.

Why Replace Just the Faucet Handle?

If your shower faucet uses a cartridge or ceramic disc valve, replacing just the handle offers some nice perks compared to replacing the whole faucet:

• It’s significantly less expensive. Shower faucet handles typically range from $10-60 while a whole new faucet can cost $100-500+.
• It’s a much quicker and easier DIY project. Handle replacement may take 15-30 minutes while a full faucet replacement can take 2-3 hours.
• You don’t have to modify your plumbing. A new handle installs onto the existing faucet valve.
• No need to repair tile, drywall, etc. that you might disturb removing the whole faucet.
• It avoids having a mismatched faucet and shower head if you can’t find the exact model.

Basically, if you can replace just the handle, you get an easy bathroom upgrade without the hassle and cost of a whole new faucet. It’s the ideal solution for a worn or damaged handle.

How to Replace a Shower Faucet Handle

Replacing a shower faucet handle is a relatively straightforward DIY project:

1. Turn off the water supply lines for the shower faucet.
2. Pry off the old shower handle with pliers or a screwdriver. You may need to remove a set screw or cap covering the handle screw first.
3. Remove the faucet cartridge or ceramic disc valve (unless also replacing).
4. Clean any scale or grime from the faucet body and valve/cartridge area.
5. Apply plumbers grease or orings/seals on the new cartridge/valve.
6. Install the new cartridge/valve and shower handle in reverse order.
7. Turn the water back on and check for leaks.

The key steps are safely removing the old handle without damaging the faucet, cleaning away any built-up gunk, and properly installing the new handle/components with grease and seals. Patience and proper leverage help remove stiff, corroded handles. An adjustable wrench or pliers work best for tightening the new handle.

Overall, the project can be done in less than an hour with some basic DIY skills and tools. Watching an online tutorial video is highly recommended before tackling this for the first time. A damaged valve or faucet threads may require calling in a plumber.

Choosing a Replacement Shower Faucet Handle

When selecting a replacement shower faucet handle, make sure to get one that fits your faucet properly. Key factors to match:

• Handle style: Target the same handle style and design for a consistent look.
• Dimensions: The new handle must fit in the existing faucet base footprint.
• Connector size: The handle connector must match the faucet stem diameter.
• Finish: Pick a handle finish (chrome, oil rubbed bronze, etc) that matches your faucet.
• Brand: Opt for the same faucet brand if possible for the best compatibility.

You’ll also want to choose a handle made of durable materials like metal that matches your faucet quality level. Plastic handles are lighter duty. Buying an OEM handle specifically for your faucet model is recommended when possible.

Here are some of the most common shower faucet handle styles and finishes:

Handle Style	Finish Options
Lever	Chrome, bronze, nickel, black
Knob	Chrome, bronze, white
Cross	Chrome, bronze
Bar	Chrome, bronze, brushed nickel

Getting an exact match handle style and finish prevents the handle from looking out of place. Take your old shower handle to the store to find the closest match.

Replacing the Valve/Cartridge Too

While just replacing the shower handle is quick and easy, sometimes the underlying faucet valve/cartridge needs replacing as well. Signs you may need a new cartridge or valve include:

• Dripping or leaking handle
• Not shutting off water completely
• Loss of temperature control
• Calcification or corrosion damage

Replacing the valve or cartridge restores your faucet performance and water pressure. The steps are very similar:

1. Remove the old cartridge/valve
2. Install the replacement valve/cartridge
3. Re-install the handle on the new valve

When buying a new valve or cartridge, match it up with your faucet brand and model. Cartridges often have part numbers stamped on them for easy replacement. Changing both handle and valve simultaneously is the best way to thoroughly refresh your shower faucet.

Hiring a Plumber

While a handle replacement is an easy DIY job, it’s understandable to hire a plumber for this bathroom project. Reasons you may want to have a professional handle the shower faucet repair include:

• You’re uncomfortable working with water lines
• Removing the seized handle requires extra force
• There’s tricky access to the faucet
• You discover valve damage needing more expertise
• You want the job done quickly and flawlessly

Plumbers have all the right tools, skills, and experience to make this an easy job. They can also assess if your valve needs replacement or other repairs are needed. Typical costs for a plumber to replace a shower faucet handle range from $45 to $150.

While a DIY handle swap remains inexpensive, sometimes it’s worth hiring a pro to get the job done right. They can ensure everything is sealed and functioning properly after the repair.

Conclusion

Replacing just a shower faucet handle is often possible and much more affordable and convenient than replacing the entire faucet. As long as your faucet has a cartridge or ceramic disc valve, handle-only replacement is a DIY-friendly task. Make sure to identify your faucet valve type, clean away any gunk before installing the new handle, and match the handle style for a seamless faucet refresh. Or hire a plumber if you’d rather leave the work to an expert.