Tired of that leaky or hard-to-turn Moen shower handle? Take matters into your own hands and remove it swiftly with this comprehensive guide. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a novice plumber, we’ve got you covered. Prepare to restore your shower to its former glory with ease.
To begin, gather the essential tools: a flathead screwdriver, a pair of needle-nose pliers, and a clean rag. Safety first! Before commencing any work, shut off the water supply to your shower to prevent unexpected spraying. Armed with your tools and safety measures in place, let’s delve into the step-by-step process of removing your Moen shower handle.
First, locate the small cap on the handle’s base. Carefully pry it off with the flathead screwdriver and set it aside. Next, use the needle-nose pliers to grasp the exposed screw and remove it. Once the screw is out, gently pull the handle straight towards you to detach it from the valve body. If it resists, apply slight pressure while wiggling the handle back and forth. With the handle removed, you’re now ready to address the underlying issue or proceed with the replacement.
Identifying the Type of Moen Shower Handle
The first step in removing a Moen shower handle is to identify the type of handle you have. Moen offers a wide variety of shower handles, so it’s important to know which type you have before you begin the removal process.
Types of Moen Shower Handles
There are three main types of Moen shower handles:
- Single-lever handles: These handles are the most common type of shower handle. They have a single lever that controls both the water temperature and flow.
- Two-handle handles: These handles have two levers, one for the hot water and one for the cold water.
- Thermostatic handles: These handles have a thermostat that controls the water temperature.
To identify the type of Moen shower handle you have, look at the handle itself. If it has a single lever, it is a single-lever handle. If it has two levers, it is a two-handle handle. If it has a thermostat, it is a thermostatic handle.
| Handle Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Single-lever | Single lever controls both water temperature and flow |
| Two-handle | Two levers, one for hot water and one for cold water |
| Thermostatic | Thermostat controls water temperature |
Once you have identified the type of Moen shower handle you have, you can proceed to the next step of the removal process.
Gathering Necessary Tools
To remove a Moen shower handle, it is essential to have the appropriate tools on hand. Missing even one necessary tool can prolong the process or make it more difficult.
Tools Required:
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Phillips head screwdriver | For removing the screw holding the handle in place. |
| Allen wrench | For removing the set screw that secures the handle to the valve stem. |
| Adjustable wrench | For holding the valve stem in place while removing the handle. |
| Pliers | For gripping and removing the handle if it is stuck. |
| Cloth or towel | For protecting the shower surface from scratches. |
Optional:
- Flashlight: For illuminating dark areas behind the handle.
- Mineral oil or penetrating oil: For lubricating stubborn screws.
Safety Precautions
Before you begin any work on your shower handle, there are a few safety precautions that you should take. First, make sure that the water supply to your shower is turned off. You can do this by turning off the main water valve to your home or by turning off the valve that supplies water to your shower. Next, put on a pair of safety glasses to protect your eyes from any flying debris. Finally, wear gloves to protect your hands from any sharp edges.
Step 1: Remove the Escutcheon Plate
The escutcheon plate is the decorative cover that surrounds the shower handle. To remove it, use a screwdriver to remove the screws that are holding it in place. Once the screws are removed, you can pull the escutcheon plate off the wall.
Step 2: Remove the Cartridge Retainer Clip
The cartridge retainer clip is a small clip that holds the cartridge in place. To remove it, use a pair of needle-nose pliers to squeeze the clip and pull it out of the hole.
Step 3: Remove the Cartridge
The cartridge is the part of the shower handle that controls the flow of water. To remove it, grab it with a pair of pliers and pull it straight out of the valve body. Be careful not to damage the cartridge or the valve body.
Turning Off the Water Supply
1. Identify the Shut-off Valves
Locate the shut-off valves for your water supply. These valves are typically found under the sink or behind the toilet.
2. Turn Off the Cold and Hot Valves
First, turn off the cold water valve by twisting the knob clockwise. Then, turn off the hot water valve by twisting the knob clockwise as well.
3. Inspect for Leaks
After turning off the valves, check for any leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the packing nuts on the valves until the leaks stop.
4. Alternative Technique: Using a Water Key
In some cases, you may not be able to locate the shut-off valves. If this is the case, you can use a water key to turn off the water supply.
A water key is a small device that can be inserted into the cold water supply line. Once inserted, you can turn the key to stop the flow of water. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use a water key:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Turn off the hot water valve. |
| 2 | Locate the cold water supply line. |
| 3 | Insert the water key into the cold water supply line. |
| 4 | Turn the key to stop the flow of water. |
Removing the Trim Plate
Removing the trim plate on a Moen shower handle is crucial for accessing the handle assembly and performing repairs or upgrades. Here are the detailed steps to guide you through the process:
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
Before beginning any work on the shower, shut off the water supply to the shower valve. This will prevent water from flowing out when you remove the handle.
2. Remove the Set Screw
Locate the set screw on the trim plate, typically situated in the center. Use a small hex key or Allen wrench to loosen and remove the set screw. Note that some models may have a cap covering the set screw, which you’ll need to pry off gently.
3. Pull off the Trim Plate
Once the set screw is removed, carefully pull the trim plate away from the valve body. If it’s stuck, gently pry it loose using a flat-head screwdriver or a similar tool. Avoid pulling too hard, as you don’t want to damage the plate or the underlying components.
4. Disconnect the Temperature Limiter Cap
Behind the trim plate, you’ll find the temperature limiter cap. This cap restricts the maximum water temperature to prevent scalding. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers or a small wrench to loosen and remove the cap.
5. Extract the Cartridge Assembly
Now, you’ll need to extract the cartridge assembly, which contains the water control mechanism. Grip the cartridge housing (the part that the handle attaches to) with a pair of pliers or a cartridge puller (if available). Twist the cartridge counterclockwise to loosen it. Once it’s loose, pull it straight out of the valve body.
| Handle Type | Cartridge Removal Method |
| Single Handle | Twist counterclockwise to loosen |
| Double Handle | Pull straight out |
Exposing the Handle Cartridge
Step 1: Shut off the water supply by turning the water supply valves in a clockwise direction. The valves are usually located near the bottom of the shower wall.
Step 2: Remove the cap or escutcheon that covers the base of the handle. It may be held in place by a screw or by spring clips.
Step 3: Remove the handle screw that connects the handle to the stem of the cartridge. The screw may be hidden underneath a cap or escutcheon.
Step 4: Gently pull the handle straight towards you to remove it from the stem. If the handle is stuck, you may need to use a screwdriver or a pair of pliers to gently pry it off.
Step 5: Locate the cartridge retaining clip or ring that secures the cartridge in the valve body. The clip or ring may be made of plastic or metal.
Step 6: Using a pair of needle-nose pliers or a cartridge puller tool, gently squeeze the cartridge retaining clip or ring and pull it straight towards you to release the cartridge from the valve body. Be careful not to damage the clip or ring during this step.
Here is a table summarizing the steps for exposing the handle cartridge:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Shut off the water supply. |
| 2 | Remove the cap or escutcheon. |
| 3 | Remove the handle screw. |
| 4 | Pull the handle straight towards you. |
| 5 | Locate the cartridge retaining clip or ring. |
| 6 | Gently squeeze the cartridge retaining clip or ring and pull it straight towards you. |
Removing the Handle Cartridge
-
Turn off the water supply. Locate the water supply valves beneath the sink or behind the access panel and turn them off.
-
Remove the handle screw. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw located at the base of the handle.
-
Pull off the handle. Once the screw is removed, gently pull the handle straight towards you to remove it.
-
Remove the cartridge retainer nut. Using a 5/16" hex nut driver or socket, loosen and remove the cartridge retainer nut located behind the handle.
-
Pull out the cartridge. Grab the cartridge by its tab and pull it straight out from the valve body.
-
Inspect the cartridge. Check the cartridge for any signs of damage, wear, or debris. If the cartridge is damaged or clogged, it will need to be replaced.
-
Clean the valve body. Use a clean rag or brush to remove any dirt or debris from the inside of the valve body. This will help ensure a tight seal when the new cartridge is installed.
Troubleshooting Tips:
If you encounter any issues while removing the handle cartridge, try the following troubleshooting tips:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Handle won’t come off | Ensure that the handle screw is completely removed and that you are pulling straight towards you. |
| Cartridge retainer nut is stuck | Use a penetrating oil to loosen the nut. If necessary, use a pair of pliers to grip the nut and turn it. |
| Cartridge won’t come out | Ensure that the cartridge retainer nut is completely removed and that you are pulling straight out from the valve body. |
Replacing the Cartridge
The cartridge is the core component of your Moen shower handle and is responsible for controlling the flow of water. To replace the cartridge, you will need to:
1. Turn off the water supply
Locate the water shut-off valves for the shower and turn them off completely to prevent water from flowing during the replacement process.
2. Remove the handle screw
Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the screw that is located in the center of the handle. This will release the handle and allow you to remove it.
3. Remove the trim plate
Once the handle is removed, you should be able to see the trim plate behind it. This plate is usually held in place by a series of clips or screws. Carefully pry the trim plate off.
4. Unscrew the cartridge
You should now be able to see the cartridge. It is usually held in place by a large nut. Using a pair of pliers, carefully unscrew the nut and remove the cartridge.
5. Install the new cartridge
Take the new cartridge and align it with the housing. Carefully screw the cartridge into place until it is hand-tight. Do not overtighten the cartridge.
6. Reinstall the trim plate
Place the trim plate back over the cartridge and secure it with the clips or screws that you removed earlier.
7. Reinstall the handle
Take the handle and align it with the stem. Press the handle onto the stem until it snaps into place.
8. Turn on the water supply
Slowly turn the water shut-off valves back on to allow water to flow into the shower. Check for any leaks at the handle or trim plate. If you notice any leaks, tighten the components as needed.
9. Test the handle
Turn the handle to different positions and check that the water flow and temperature are working properly. If the handle is not functioning correctly, you may need to replace the cartridge again or consult a professional plumber.
Reattaching the Trim Plate
With the handle removed, you can now reattach the trim plate. Here’s how:
1. Align the Trim Plate
Position the trim plate over the valve body, aligning the screw holes.
2. Insert the Screws
Insert the two screws provided into the holes on the trim plate.
3. Tighten the Screws
Using a Phillips head screwdriver, tighten the screws until the trim plate is securely attached to the valve body.
4. Check for Firm Attachment
Try to gently wiggle the trim plate to ensure it’s firmly attached.
5. Reinstall the Handle
Now that the trim plate is secure, you can reinstall the handle by following the steps outlined in the previous section.
6. Tighten the Set Screw
Once the handle is installed, tighten the set screw located on the bottom of the handle to secure it to the valve stem.
7. Reinsert the Button (Optional)
If your shower handle has a button, reinsert it into the center of the handle after tightening the set screw.
8. Check for Leaks
Turn on the water supply and check for any leaks around the handle or trim plate. If you notice any leaks, tighten the screws or call a plumber.
9. Adjust the Temperature and Flow
With the handle reinstalled, adjust the temperature and flow to your desired settings. If necessary, adjust the limit stops on the valve to prevent excessive hot or cold water.
|
Type of Moen Shower Handle |
Difficulty Level |
|
Moen Posi-Temp |
Easy |
|
Moen Moentrol |
Moderate |
|
Moen Chateau |
Difficult |
Turning the Water Supply Back On
Once you’ve successfully replaced the Moen shower handle, it’s time to turn the water supply back on. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Locate the Water Shut-Off Valves
The water shut-off valves are usually located behind the shower wall, behind the access panel, or under the sink. They may be labeled with “Hot” and “Cold” or have red and blue handles.
2. Turn the Valves Counterclockwise
Slowly turn the valves counterclockwise to open them. Do not overtighten as this can damage the valves.
3. Check for Leaks
Once the valves are open, check for leaks around the base of the shower handle and the water supply lines. If you find any leaks, retighten the connections until they are sealed.
4. Adjust Water Temperature
Turn on the shower and adjust the water temperature to the desired setting by turning the handle clockwise for hotter water or counterclockwise for colder water.
5. Flush the Lines
Run the water for a few minutes to flush out any debris or air that may have entered the lines during the repair.
| Troubleshooting Tips | |
|---|---|
| Problem | Solution |
| Water leaks from the base of the shower handle | Retighten the packing nut or replace the O-ring. |
| Water leaks from the connection to the water supply line | Tighten the connection or replace the washer. |
| No water comes out of the showerhead | Check if the water supply is turned on, and clear any clogs in the showerhead. |
How To Remove Moen Shower Handle
Removing a Moen shower handle is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes with the right tools. Here are the steps on how to do it:
- Turn off the water supply to the shower.
- Remove the cap on the handle. This is usually done by prying it off with a flathead screwdriver.
- Unscrew the handle screw. This screw is usually located in the center of the handle.
- Pull the handle straight off the valve stem.
People Also Ask About How To Remove Moen Shower Handle
What if the handle screw is stripped?
If the handle screw is stripped, you can try using a pair of needle-nose pliers to grip the screw and turn it out. If that doesn’t work, you can try using a screw extractor.
Can I remove the Moen shower handle without turning off the water supply?
It is not recommended to remove the Moen shower handle without turning off the water supply. This is because water may leak out of the valve when the handle is removed.
How do I know if my Moen shower handle is removable?
Most Moen shower handles are removable. However, there are some models that are not. To check if your handle is removable, look for a small cap on the handle. If there is a cap, the handle is removable.
