Remodeling your bathroom? Replacing a leaky shower handle? Whatever the reason, knowing how to remove a Delta shower handle is an essential skill for any homeowner. Delta faucets are a popular choice due to their durability and ease of use, but even the best fixtures can eventually need some maintenance. Removing the handle is often the first step in repairing or replacing the faucet, so follow these simple steps to get the job done right.
Before you start, make sure you have the right tools for the job. You will need a small flathead screwdriver or a hex key, depending on the model of your Delta faucet. You may also need a pair of pliers if the handle is particularly stubborn. Once you have your tools, turn off the water supply to the shower and open the faucet to release any remaining water. Then, remove the small cap or cover on the handle, which will expose the screw or hex bolt that holds the handle in place. Use the appropriate tool to loosen the screw or bolt, then gently pull the handle straight towards you to remove it.
If the handle is stuck, you can try using a penetrating lubricant to loosen it up. Apply a few drops of the lubricant to the screw or bolt and let it sit for a few minutes before trying to remove the handle again. You can also try using a pair of pliers to gently wiggle the handle back and forth until it comes loose. Once the handle is removed, you can proceed with repairing or replacing the faucet as needed.
Disassembling the Handle Assembly
### Removing the Escutcheon
Begin by locating the small screw situated behind the handle. Using a Phillips head screwdriver, carefully unscrew and remove it. This will release the escutcheon, the decorative plate covering the handle base. Gently pull the escutcheon straight toward you to detach it.
### Exposing the Cartridge Assembly
Once the escutcheon is removed, you will have access to the cartridge assembly. Locate the retaining clip at the base of the handle. Use a small flathead screwdriver to pry open the clip and detach it. This will allow you to lift the handle straight up and off the cartridge assembly.
### Removing the Handle Insert
In some Delta shower models, the handle may have an insert that needs to be removed before accessing the cartridge. To remove the insert, locate the small set screw in the center of the handle. Use an Allen wrench to loosen the screw, then gently pull out the insert.
### Accessing the Cartridge
With the handle and insert removed, you will now have access to the cartridge assembly. The cartridge is typically held in place by a nut or collar. Locate the nut or collar and use an adjustable wrench or pliers to carefully loosen it. Once the nut or collar is removed, gently pull the cartridge straight out to detach it from the valve body.
Removing the Trim Plate
Once the shower handle is removed, you can now focus on the trim plate. This part covers the valve body and conceals the plumbing beneath it. Carefully examine the trim plate for any visible screws or fasteners. If there are any, remove them using an appropriate screwdriver.
Checking for Hidden Screws
Sometimes, the trim plate may not have any apparent screws on its surface. In such cases, you need to check for hidden screws located under small caps or plugs. Using a thin object like a razor blade or a spudger, gently pry open these caps or plugs to reveal the hidden screws beneath. Once the hidden screws are exposed, remove them using an appropriate screwdriver.
Removing the Trim Plate
Once all the screws or fasteners are removed, carefully pull the trim plate away from the valve body. It may be slightly stuck due to old sealant or mineral buildup. If you encounter resistance, gently wiggle the trim plate back and forth while pulling it towards you. Take care not to apply excessive force that may damage the valve body or the trim plate.
Loosening the Handle Screw
To loosen the handle screw, you will need a Phillips head screwdriver. Begin by locating the screw at the base of the handle. It is typically hidden under a small plastic cap. Using the screwdriver, carefully remove the cap. This will expose the screw.
With the cap removed, use the screwdriver to slightly loosen the screw. Do not remove it completely, as the handle may become loose and fall off. There is a stem attached to the handle that extends into the faucet body. You only need to loosen the screw enough to allow the handle to rotate freely on the stem.
Once the screw is loose, you can proceed with the rest of the steps for removing the Delta shower handle. If you encounter any resistance while loosening the screw, it may be necessary to apply penetrating oil to the threads. Allow the oil to sit for a few minutes before attempting to loosen the screw again.
Pulling Off the Handle
With the set screw removed, you can now pull the handle off the valve stem. To do this, gently grasp the handle with one hand and pull it straight towards you with a slight rocking motion. The handle should come off easily if the set screw has been removed correctly. However, if the handle is still stuck, you can try using a pair of pliers or a wrench to gently pry it off.
As you pull the handle off, be careful not to damage the valve stem or the handle itself. If you are having difficulty removing the handle, you can try applying a small amount of penetrating oil to the set screw hole and letting it sit for a few minutes before attempting to remove the handle.
Once the handle has been removed, you will need to remove the trim plate. The trim plate is the decorative piece that covers the valve stem and the handle opening. To remove the trim plate, simply use a screwdriver to remove the screws that are holding it in place. Once the screws have been removed, the trim plate should come off easily.
| Tool | Usage |
|---|---|
| Screwdriver | Remove the set screw and trim plate screws |
| Pliers or wrench | Gently pry off the handle if it is stuck |
| Penetrating oil | Lubricate the set screw hole if the handle is difficult to remove |
Removing the Pressure Balance Cartridge
1. Removing the Handle
Locate the tiny setscrew on the handle’s base. Use a hex key or small screwdriver to loosen the setscrew.
2. Removing the Escutcheon
Once the setscrew is loose, lift the handle off the valve. Behind it, you’ll see the escutcheon, which covers the cartridge.
3. Removing the Clip
Inside the escutcheon, there’s a metal clip that holds the cartridge in place. Use a small flathead screwdriver to pry the clip off.
4. Removing the Cartridge
Once the clip is removed, you can pull the cartridge straight out of the valve body.
5. Cleaning the Cartridge
If the cartridge is dirty or clogged, it can cause problems with water flow or temperature control. To clean the cartridge, soak it in a vinegar solution for about 30 minutes. Then, use a soft brush to clean any debris or mineral buildup from the cartridge’s surface. Rinse the cartridge thoroughly with water before reinstalling it.
The below table summarizes the steps for removing the pressure balance cartridge:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Remove the handle |
| 2 | Remove the escutcheon |
| 3 | Remove the clip |
| 4 | Remove the cartridge |
| 5 | Clean the cartridge |
Troubleshooting Common Problems
If you encounter any difficulties while removing your Delta shower handle, consult the following troubleshooting tips:
1. Check the Shower Valve Type
Ensure that your shower valve is compatible with Delta handles. Refer to the product’s instructions or consult a professional if necessary.
2. Locate the Set Screw
Examine the base of the handle for a small set screw or button. It may be under a plastic cover or cap. If you can’t find the set screw, consult the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Use the Correct Tool
Acquire an Allen wrench or hex key of the appropriate size to loosen the set screw. Avoid using pliers or other tools that could damage the handle.
4. Apply Inward Pressure
Once the set screw is loosened, grasp the handle and apply inward pressure while turning it counterclockwise. This should release the handle from the valve.
5. Check for Corrosion
If the handle is stuck due to corrosion, apply a penetrating lubricant to the set screw and allow it to sit for a few minutes before attempting to remove it.
6. Resolving Stubborn Handles
For handles that remain firmly attached, you may need to employ additional techniques:
- Tap the Handle Base: Use a rubber mallet or a piece of wood to gently tap the base of the handle. This can help loosen any seized components.
- Use a Strap Wrench: Apply a strap wrench around the handle and tighten it gradually. Rotate the handle counterclockwise while maintaining pressure with the strap wrench.
- Apply Heat: Use a heat gun or hair dryer to warm the handle base for a few minutes. Heat expansion can loosen up stubborn components.
7. Other Considerations
If you experience persistent difficulties, consider contacting a professional plumber for assistance.
Reassembling the Handle Assembly
Now that you’ve disassembled the handle assembly, it’s time to put it all back together. Here’s how to do it:
- Insert the rubber washer into the groove on the bottom of the handle.
- Place the handle assembly back onto the valve stem.
- Tighten the screw that holds the handle in place.
- Slide the trim plate over the handle assembly and into place.
- Secure the trim plate with the screws that were removed earlier.
- Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. If you see any leaks, tighten the screws on the trim plate until the leaks stop.
- Adjust the handle position. The handle should be positioned so that it’s easy to reach and operate. To adjust the handle position, loosen the set screw that’s located at the bottom of the handle. Then, turn the handle to the desired position and tighten the set screw.
Here’s a table summarizing the steps for reassembling the handle assembly:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Insert the rubber washer into the groove on the bottom of the handle. |
| 2 | Place the handle assembly back onto the valve stem. |
| 3 | Tighten the screw that holds the handle in place. |
| 4 | Slide the trim plate over the handle assembly and into place. |
| 5 | Secure the trim plate with the screws that were removed earlier. |
| 6 | Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. |
| 7 | Adjust the handle position. |
Installing the New Handle
8. Tighten the Handle
Once you’ve inserted the handle, you’ll need to tighten it to ensure a secure fit. Start by tightening the set screw located at the base of the handle. Use a small screwdriver or an Allen wrench, depending on the type of set screw your handle has. Turn the screw clockwise until it feels snug, but be careful not to overtighten it.
Next, tighten the cartridge nut by hand. Turn the nut clockwise until it feels secure, then use a wrench or pliers to give it an extra quarter turn. Avoid overtightening the cartridge nut, as this could damage the cartridge.
Finally, reinstall the escutcheon plate. Align the plate with the screw holes on the handle and push it into place. Use a screwdriver to tighten the screws, again being careful not to overtighten them.
| Handle Type | Set Screw Type |
|---|---|
| Single-Handle | Allen wrench or hex key |
| Two-Handle | Phillips head or flathead screwdriver |
| Tub/Shower | Allen wrench or hex key |
Once you’ve tightened all the screws, your new handle should be securely installed. Turn on the water to check for leaks, and adjust the temperature and pressure as desired.
Turning on the Water and Testing
Once the handle is in place, turn on the water to test it. Check for any leaks or drips from the handle or any other part of the faucet. If everything seems to be working properly, you have successfully replaced the shower handle. If you do encounter any leaks, you may need to tighten the screws or replace the O-rings inside the handle.
Troubleshooting Leaks
If you encounter a leak from the handle after installing it, you can try the following troubleshooting steps:
- Check the screws: Make sure that the screws holding the handle in place are adequately tightened. If they are loose, tighten them using a screwdriver.
- Replace the O-rings: The O-rings within the handle can wear out over time, causing leaks. Replace them with new O-rings that are compatible with your Delta shower model.
- Contact Delta customer support: If you are still experiencing leaks despite trying the above steps, contact Delta customer support for assistance. They can help you diagnose the issue and provide further instructions.
Final Adjustments
Once you have installed the new cartridge, it is time to make some final adjustments to ensure your shower is functioning correctly.
Position the Handle
Align the handle with the desired position and tighten the screw located on the side of the handle with a screwdriver.
Install the Escutcheon
Slide the escutcheon over the base of the handle and secure it with the screw provided.
Adjust the Temperature Limit Stop (Optional)
If you want to limit the maximum water temperature, use a pair of pliers to turn the temperature limit stop screw located inside the handle clockwise. This will restrict the handle’s movement and prevent excessively hot water from being dispensed.
Check for Leaks
Turn on the shower and check for any leaks around the handle or base. If there are any leaks, tighten the screws further or apply plumber’s tape to seal the connections.
Trim Excess Tub Spout Length (if Applicable)
If your tub spout is too long, use a hacksaw or pipe cutter to trim it to the desired length. Ensure that the cuts are clean and perpendicular to the spout.
Reattach the Shower Head
Thread the shower head back onto the shower arm and tighten it with a wrench or by hand. Ensure that the shower head is facing the desired direction.
Tighten the Shower Arm (Optional)
If the shower arm is loose, use a wrench to tighten it by turning it clockwise. Be careful not to overtighten the shower arm.
Apply Plumber’s Grease (Optional)
To prevent future leaks and make future maintenance easier, apply a thin layer of plumber’s grease to all moving parts and connections.
How to Remove a Delta Shower Handle
Delta shower handles are designed to be easy to remove, making it possible to replace them with a new style or finish or to repair the handle if it becomes damaged.
To remove a Delta shower handle, follow these steps:
- Turn off the water supply to the shower. This is usually done by turning the handle on the main water supply valve clockwise.
- Remove the handle cap. The cap is usually held in place by a small screw. Use a screwdriver to remove the screw and then pull the cap off.
- Remove the handle. The handle is usually held in place by a set screw. Use a hex key or an Allen wrench to loosen the set screw and then pull the handle off.
Once the handle is removed, you can replace it with a new one or repair the old one. To repair the handle, simply tighten the set screw and replace the handle cap.
People Also Ask
How do you remove a Delta shower handle without a screw?
If your Delta shower handle does not have a visible screw, it is likely held in place by a spring clip. To remove the handle, use a small flathead screwdriver to pry the clip out of the handle. Once the clip is removed, the handle will come off.
How do you remove a Delta shower handle with a button?
To remove a Delta shower handle with a button, simply press the button and pull the handle off. The button will release the handle from the stem.
How do you fix a loose Delta shower handle?
To fix a loose Delta shower handle, simply tighten the set screw that holds the handle in place. Use a hex key or an Allen wrench to tighten the set screw.
