How To Replace Shower Knobs (with Pictures) - WikiHow

Skip to ContentQuizzes

• PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
• QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games ForumsArts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and Garden Relationship QuizzesCars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and Style Sports and FitnessComputers and ElectronicsHealthPets and Animals TravelEducation & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and Religion Work WorldFamily LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationships Youth
• LOG IN

  Log in

  Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. Facebook Google wikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
• RANDOM

• Home
• Random
• Browse Articles
• TrendingNew
• Quizzes & Games
• All QuizzesHot
• Love Quizzes
• Personality Quizzes
• Fun Games
• Dating Simulator
• Learn Something New
• Forums
• Courses
• Happiness Hub
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow

• Log in / Sign up

Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow

• Categories
• Home and Garden
• Home Maintenance
• Bathrooms
• Showers

How to Change Out Single & Double Shower Knobs Download Article Upgrade old, dirty, or damaged shower handles like a pro Co-authored by Greg Jeiranyan and Devin McSween

Last Updated: November 4, 2024 Fact Checked

Download Article

• Replacing Double Knobs
|
• Replacing a Single Knob
|
• Video
|
• Expert Interview
|
• Tips

|Show more |Show less X

This article was co-authored by Greg Jeiranyan and by wikiHow staff writer, Devin McSween. Greg Jeiranyan is a Licensed Plumber based in Los Angeles, California. With over 10 years of professional experience, Greg and his team specialize in residential and commercial plumbing service calls. His company, Plumbing Geeks, is rated 5 stars on Yelp and is a family-owned and operated plumbing company. Plumbing Geeks has been serving Los Angeles and its surrounding areas since 2021. There are 14 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 355,389 times.

A quick, easy, and inexpensive way to redecorate your bathroom is to replace the shower knobs. Most shower knobs are either single or double, depending on the type of faucet that you have. Luckily, replacing both types of knobs is super simple. We spoke with professional plumbers Greg Jeiranyan and David Balkan to learn the best ways to replace both types of knobs. Read on to find out more!

Replacing a Shower Knob or Handle

Turn off your main water supply or the valve to your shower. Then, pry off the cover on top of the knob and unscrew the screw. Twist and pull off the old knob and then push on a compatible replacement knob. Then, secure the new knob with a screw and push on the knob cover.

Steps

Method 1 Method 1 of 2:

Replacing Double Knobs

Download Article

1. 1 Switch off the water before you start. Either turn off the water valve specifically for the shower, or shut off the water supply at the main line, which is usually on the outside of your house or in the basement. Simply switch off the water and then turn the shower on, which allows any remaining water to flow out.[1]
   • Balkan says “every plumbing fixture,” like a shower or toilet, “typically [has] their own dedicated valve” that is located near the fixture.[2]
   • If the water supply handle is round and looks like a wheel, turn the handle clockwise (right) to switch it off. It will take around 2 full turns.
   • If the water supply handle is a lever, give the handle a 1/4 turn, where it will stop.
   • Note: The knob replacement process is the same if you have 3 or more shower knobs.
2. 2 Place an old cloth over the shower drain. Lay a cloth flat over the drain to catch any small parts that may fall while you are replacing the knobs. This prevents you from losing anything and also keeps your drain from getting blocked.[3] Advertisement
3. 3 Remove the decorative covers on the knobs. Jeiranyan says there’s usually “some type of cover that covers…the screw that holds [the knob] in place.” Simply push a flathead screwdriver beneath the cover plate on the knob. Then, gently lift the screwdriver handle away to pop the cover off.[4]
   • You can use a utility knife instead of a flathead screwdriver.[5]
   • If the cover plate is stuck, use a handle puller to remove it. You can find these at your local hardware store.
4. 4 Unscrew the screws in the center of the knobs. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw in the knob. Jeiranyan says to turn the screwdriver counterclockwise (left) to twist the screw out. It will fall out quickly, so be ready to catch it.[6]
   • Place the screw in a plastic bag or small bowl and set it in a safe space so it doesn’t get lost.
5. 5 Take off the knobs to reach the valve stems. Twist the knob counterclockwise as you pull it toward you to remove it from the shower valve. It should twist off easily with a bit of wiggling and pulling.[7]
   • If the knob seems to be stuck on the valve, give it a few very light taps with a hammer on the outside, where you hold it to turn it. This loosens any mineral deposits but won't damage the knob.
   • Tip: Label each valve so you know which one controls the hot and cold water. For instance, write an “H” on a piece of tape and place it under the correct valve.
6. 6 Purchase new knobs that are the same size and brand as the old ones. Take the old knobs and screws with you to your local hardware or plumbing store and show them to the salesperson. Jeiranyan says they will be able to help you match new shower knobs to your old fittings, ensuring that you get the right brand and size.[8]
   • Alternatively, get a universal faucet handle. This is a great option if the store doesn't sell your particular brand.
   • Most shower knobs cost between $5 to $40, depending on the materials they’re made of and who they’re made by.
   • Shower knobs are made from many different materials, so find some that match the other fittings in your bathroom, such as the showerhead and taps. For instance, brass, plastic, and chrome are common materials.
7. 7 Push the new knobs onto the valve. Make sure that the knob labeled “Cold” goes on the cold valve and the knob labeled “Hot” goes on the hot valve. Jeiranyan says that generally, the cold water knob is on the right and the hot water knob is on the left.[9]
   • If your old shower knobs were previously the wrong way around, this is a good opportunity to switch them.
   • Tip: If the shower valves are dirty, wipe them with a shower cleaner.
8. 8 Twist and screw the knobs into place. Push and twist the knob onto the valve until it slides into place. Then, Jeiranyan says to use a Phillips screwdriver to put a screw into the center of each knob. Twist the screw clockwise (right) to tighten it as much as possible and prevent any leaks.[10]
9. 9 Replace the cover plate on each knob. Use your thumbs to push each cover back onto each knob so they cover the screws. Make sure that the covers are flush and sit flat on the knobs.[11]
10. 10 Turn on the water supply and test out the knobs. Turn the water supply valve counterclockwise (left) to turn the water back on. Then, twist the hot and cold knobs on to ensure that water comes out and it’s the right temperature. Also, check that the knobs don’t leak.[12]
    • If there is a water leak, remove the knob cover and tighten the screw again.
    • If you turned off the main water supply, turn it back on slowly:
      • For round handles, make ¼ of a rotation and pause for a few seconds. Keep turning the handle ¼ of the way open and pausing until the valve is fully open.[13]
      • For lever valves, turn the lever ⅛ of a turn and wait for a few seconds. Then, turn it the rest of the way until it's parallel with the water pipe.
Advertisement

Method 2 Method 2 of 2:

Replacing a Single Knob

Download Article

1. 1 Turn the water off before you begin. Switch off the main water supply line to your house. Or, turn off the valve that controls your shower, if you have access to it; it’s usually located near your shower. Then, turn the shower on to drain out any residual water inside the pipes.[14]
   • This prevents you from getting accidentally soaked if you turn the handle while you are replacing it.
   • The main water supply is usually in your basement or located outside near the exterior of your house.
   • If the main water supply handle is a wheel, switch it off by turning it clockwise for 2 full turns.[15]
   • For main water supply handles that are levers, turn the lever ¼ until it's at a right angle to the pipe (perpendicular). You won’t be able to turn it at this point.
2. 2 Remove the cover on the shower knob. Most shower knobs have a small cover located on the front or underside of the handle; it may have a red and blue temperature symbol on it. Simply use a utility knife or screwdriver to press under the cover and flick it off.[16]
   • The knob cover goes over a hole in the shower handle where the screw is. Some showers don’t have a covered button for this hole, and in this case, you won’t have to remove one. Just find the small hole on the top or underside of the handle.
   • Tip: Place a cloth over the shower drain in case the cover or any small parts fall. This prevents them from getting stuck in the drain.
3. 3 Use a screwdriver or Allen key to remove the screw and knob. Jeiranyan says some shower knobs are secured with a Phillips head screw or a hex/Allen head screw. Simply insert a Phillips head screwdriver or hex/Allen key into the screw within the hole. Then, twist the screwdriver or key counterclockwise to remove the screw. Simply pull and twist the handle off.[17]
   • Use the long end of the Allen key, as the hole can be quite deep.
   • It only takes a few full twists of the handle to pull it away.
4. 4 Purchase a replacement handle that matches the size and brand of the old one. Put the old handle and screw into a plastic bag and show it to a salesperson at your local hardware or plumbing store. They will be able to show you what faucet handles are compatible with your old shower fittings.[18]
   • If the store doesn’t sell handles from the same brand, look for a universal faucet handle instead, which can fit onto most fittings.
   • Choosing a new shower faucet that’s compatible with your old fittings makes it easier to replace and install yourself.
   • Note: If you get a knob that’s incompatible with your old fitting, you may need to replace the shower valve, which often requires extensive plumbing work.
   • Shower knobs are made from many different materials, including brass, plastic, zinc alloy, and chrome. Match your new handle to the other fittings in your bathroom, such as the showerhead and taps. Brass is usually the most expensive option, but it typically lasts the longest, while plastic is the most inexpensive option.
5. 5 Push the new handle over the valve. You can simply push most handles into place over the existing fitting. However, some new handle sets may come with a spacer that you insert before you push the new handle on. Just fit the spacer into place inside the handle as per the instructions that came with your set first. Then, push the handle onto the valve.[19]
   • Fitting the new handle depends on the type and brand of faucet that you have. So, follow the instructions that came with the handle to install it correctly.
   • Tip: Use a shower cleaner to wipe off the shower valve if it is dirty before putting on the new knob.
6. 6 Screw the screws into the new handle. Use a Phillips head screwdriver or Allen key to attach the screws into your new handle; how many you attach just depends on how many came with the set you bought. Simply turn the screwdriver or key clockwise (right) to tighten the screw.[20]
   • The screws usually go in the very center of the new shower handle.
7. 7 Push the knob cover into place. Push the new covering over the top of the hole where the central screw is. The cover usually has the hot and cold symbols on it or the brand’s logo.[21]
   • Make sure that the cover is firmly in place and that it is sitting flat against the handle.
8. 8 Turn on the water and test the new handle. Turn the water supply back on slowly to prevent damage to your pipes. Then, move the shower handle to each side. Test that the hot and cold water works and that there are no leaks.[22]
   • If there is a leak, remove the new cover and tighten the screws.
   • Make sure you slowly turn the water supply back on. For wheel-shaped handles, pause after turning it ¼ of a revolution until the line is fully open. For levers, turn it ⅛ of a turn, wait a few seconds, and then turn it back to the original position so it’s parallel with the pipe.[23]
Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search Add New Question Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Video

Tips

• Call a plumber if you are having trouble installing the new knobs. A plumber can save you time and hassle in the long run. They usually charge $50 to $200 to install the new knobs, plus the cost of the parts. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• It’s a great idea to replace your shower head when you replace the knobs to give your shower a fresh look. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Dealing with a leaky shower faucet? Check out our guide on fixing shower faucet leaks. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Things You’ll Need

Replacing Double Knobs

• Old cloth
• Flathead screwdriver or utility knife
• Handle puller (optional)
• Phillips head screwdriver or hex/Allen key
• Hammer, optional
• New shower knobs
• Shower cleaner (optional)

Replacing a Single Knob

• Old cloth
• Flathead screwdriver or utility knife
• Handle puller (optional)
• Phillips head screwdriver or hex/Allen key
• Hammer, optional
• New shower knobs
• Shower cleaner (optional)

You Might Also Like

How to Install a Shower Faucet How toChange a Bathtub Faucet How toReplace a Shower Valve How to Fix a Leaky Shower Faucet by Yourself The Easiest Way to Change a Bathroom Sink Faucet How toReplace a Bathroom Faucet Handle The Complete DIY Guide to Installing a New Faucet in Your Kitchen How to Replace a Shower Head Like a Pro How toReplace a Door Handle How to Remove the Faucet in a Tub (Slip-On & Screw-On) How to Fix a Leaky Single-Handle Sink Faucet How toFix a Kitchen Faucet How to Install a Sink Faucet: A Step-by-Step Guide How toReplace a Water Valve Advertisement

Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about plumbing, check out our in-depth interview with Greg Jeiranyan.

References

1. ↑ https://www.hamilton-oh.gov/water-shut-off-valves
2. ↑ David Balkan. Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main. Expert Interview
3. ↑ https://youtu.be/4ohsuRhpP-c?t=21
4. ↑ Greg Jeiranyan. Licensed Plumber. Expert Interview
5. ↑ https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/how-to-fix-a-dripping-shower/
6. ↑ Greg Jeiranyan. Licensed Plumber. Expert Interview
7. ↑ https://www.homeadvisor.com/r/shower-faucet-repair-guide/
8. ↑ Greg Jeiranyan. Licensed Plumber. Expert Interview
9. ↑ Greg Jeiranyan. Licensed Plumber. Expert Interview

More References (14)

10. ↑ Greg Jeiranyan. Licensed Plumber. Expert Interview
11. ↑ https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/how-to-fix-a-dripping-shower/
12. ↑ https://youtu.be/rILRStPhIQs?feature=shared&t=228
13. ↑ https://www.wsscwater.com/customer-service/report-problem/find-and-operate-your-main-water-valve
14. ↑ https://www.homeadvisor.com/r/shower-faucet-repair-guide/
15. ↑ https://www.hamilton-oh.gov/water-shut-off-valves
16. ↑ https://youtu.be/c1d3zg-0JnU?t=12
17. ↑ Greg Jeiranyan. Licensed Plumber. Expert Interview
18. ↑ https://www.homeadvisor.com/r/shower-faucet-repair-guide/
19. ↑ https://youtu.be/rILRStPhIQs?t=107
20. ↑ https://youtu.be/rILRStPhIQs?t=200
21. ↑ https://youtu.be/rILRStPhIQs?t=223
22. ↑ https://youtu.be/rILRStPhIQs?t=228
23. ↑ https://www.wsscwater.com/customer-service/residential-tips/locating-and-operating-your-main.html

About This Article

Co-authored by: Greg Jeiranyan Licensed Plumber This article was co-authored by Greg Jeiranyan and by wikiHow staff writer, Devin McSween. Greg Jeiranyan is a Licensed Plumber based in Los Angeles, California. With over 10 years of professional experience, Greg and his team specialize in residential and commercial plumbing service calls. His company, Plumbing Geeks, is rated 5 stars on Yelp and is a family-owned and operated plumbing company. Plumbing Geeks has been serving Los Angeles and its surrounding areas since 2021. This article has been viewed 355,389 times. 1 votes - 100% Co-authors: 10 Updated: November 4, 2024 Views: 355,389 Categories: Showers Article SummaryX

An easy, inexpensive, and fast way to give your bathroom a new look is to replace the shower knobs. Before you start, turn the water off. If you have access to the valve for the shower, turn that off too. After you turn the water off, turn the shower on to drain out any lingering water. Lay a cloth flat over the drain to catch any small parts that may fall while you’re replacing the knob so you don’t lose anything. Then, you'll need to remove the covered button and screw that hold the old handle on. Once you get the old one off, push the new handle over the valve, replace the screw, and push the cover into place. To learn how to replace double knobs, keep reading! Did this summary help you?YesNo

In other languages Portuguese Arabic French Japanese

• Print
• Send fan mail to authors

Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 355,389 times.

Reader Success Stories

• 

  Alok Sharma

  Aug 9, 2022

  "Nice guide. I did it myself. No need to call a plumber."

More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Greg Jeiranyan Licensed Plumber Co-authors: 10 Updated: November 4, 2024 Views: 355,389 100% of readers found this article helpful. 1 votes - 100% Click a star to add your vote

Alok Sharma

Aug 9, 2022

"Nice guide. I did it myself. No need to call a plumber."

Steve Lew

Feb 25, 2020

"Excellent videos on just about everything. " Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

Quizzes & Games

Am I a Good Kisser QuizTake QuizMusic Notes & Symbols TestTake QuizFinish the Phrase QuizTake QuizAm I Smart QuizTake QuizWhat's My Hair Type QuizTake QuizHow Disgusting Am I QuizTake Quiz

You Might Also Like

How to Install a Shower FaucetHow toChange a Bathtub FaucetHow toReplace a Shower ValveHow to Fix a Leaky Shower Faucet by Yourself

Featured Articles

How toDevelop Productive HabitsHow toPractice Self CareWhat Song Matches Your Life Right Now?Your 2026 Vision: What Does Next Year Hold?Understanding the Most Attractive Face Shapes (& Determining Your Own)Type A B C D Personality Test

Trending Articles

How toMake OutHow Rare Is My Birthday QuizWhat Am I Craving QuizIs Your Personality More 6 or 7?What Should My Name Really Be QuizIs a Guy You Don't Know Well Interested in You?

Featured Articles

250+ Messages to Reassure Your Partner (For Him & Her)What Is My Favorite Color Quiz215+ Funny & Creative Personalized Vanity Plate Ideas100+ Creative Ways to Say Good NightWhy Can't I Sleep Quiz150+ Love Paragraphs to Make Him Feel Special

Featured Articles

What Does Your Tattoo Placement Mean? Spiritual & Aesthetic Meanings19 of the Rarest Wonders from around the WorldWhat Is the Fun Scale? The 3 Types of Fun & Their BenefitsWhat Is My Aesthetic QuizHow to Celebrate Xmas: Expert Advice on Enjoying the HolidaysHilarious Clean Jokes That’ll Make Adults & Kids Laugh

Watch Articles

How toWrap a Round GiftHow toSteam in an OvenHow to Make Plant-Based Meat: 4 Incredible RecipesHow toClean a Silver Necklace4 Easy Ways to Open a Can of SodaHow toPart Your Hair

Trending Articles

Can We Guess If You're a Cat or Dog Person?30 of the Hardest Riddles on Earth: The Harvard Riddle & BeyondWhich of the Big Three Are Your Parents? (Percy Jackson)How to Perform Magic: 8 Tricks for BeginnersWhat’s My Personality Based on My K-Pop Taste?What School Subject Are You?

Quizzes & Games

Do I Smell Bad QuizTake QuizEngagement Ring QuizTake QuizWhy Can't I Sleep QuizTake QuizWhat Color Should I Paint My Nails QuizTake QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizThe Impossible QuizTake Quiz

• Categories
• Home and Garden
• Home Maintenance
• Bathrooms
• Showers

wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.

• Home
• About wikiHow
• Experts
• Jobs
• Contact Us
• Site Map
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info
• Contribute

Follow Us

×

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve

Let's go! X --673