Skip to main content
True Value
Project

Remove the Faucet Handle — Remove the Faucet Handles

Beginner3 hours

Part of project

How to Replace a Bathtub Faucet Valve: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide · Step 2 of 5

Helpful?

In this video

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.

Goal: Bathtub Faucet Repair (Handle Replacement)

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

Used in this video

  • Flathead Screwdriver (Tool Type: Hand Tools, Screwdriver_Type: Flathead) — Prying the decorative cap off the handle and potentially prying the handle itself.
  • Pick Tool (Tool Type: Hand Tools, Pick Set Tip Shape: Straight) · optional — Removing the decorative cap from the handle.
  • Phillips Head Screwdriver (Tool Type: Hand Tools, Screwdriver_Type: Phillips) — Removing the screw that holds the handle onto the valve stem.
  • Faucet Handle Puller (Tool Type: Plumbing Tools, Handle Puller Type: Two-prong) — Safely removing a faucet handle that is stuck or corroded onto the valve stem.
42.9K views33815-45 minutes
This Old House

2.2M subscribers

View Channel

FAQs

What specific type of replacement valve should I buy for my bathtub faucet, and are the listed tools all I'll need?

You must purchase a replacement valve that is compatible with your specific bathtub faucet brand and model. Take a photo of your existing valve or faucet to a plumbing supply store for an exact match. The listed tools (adjustable wrenches, screwdriver) are essential, but also have penetrating oil and a utility knife on hand for stubborn parts.

What's the most critical safety step, and how can I avoid common beginner mistakes like leaks after installation?

The most critical safety step is ensuring both hot and cold water supplies are completely shut off before starting, then double-checking by trying to turn the faucet on. To avoid leaks, ensure the new valve is properly seated and the retaining nut is snug, but do not overtighten. Test for leaks slowly as you turn the water back on, inspecting carefully.

The project is rated 'beginner' but estimated at 3 hours. What makes it take that long, and what if screws or nuts are corroded?

While the steps are straightforward for a beginner, unexpected issues like corroded screws or a seized retaining nut can significantly extend the time. Using penetrating oil and letting it sit for 15-30 minutes can help loosen stubborn parts. Patience and having the right-sized adjustable wrench are key to success.

I'm struggling to remove the old valve even with a wrench and penetrating oil. Are there any alternative methods or tools I should try?

If the retaining nut or valve is extremely stubborn, you might need a specialized valve puller tool, which can often be rented or purchased at a hardware store. Ensure you're turning the nut counter-clockwise. If the new valve doesn't fit, double-check its compatibility with your faucet model, as slight variations can prevent proper seating.

Transcript
Hide

Alright, I think there's the burn on the bottom sped. Now most of this is complaining about it dripping so I gotta get this off. There's still water stolen to this thing so we gotta get this off. Might not be so blurry. Sometimes it's here but it won't come off. Oh great, it ain't coming off. There it goes.

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.