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How to Replace Shower Knobs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Update the unsung hero of your shower—the knobs—for a fresh new look
Photo: Quinn / Adobe Stock
Photo: Quinn / Adobe Stock
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Not all bathroom updates have to be costly or time-consuming, and replacing shower knobs is a prime example. Whether you’re looking for something new to better match your bathroom or your old ones are starting to lose their luster, learn how to replace shower knobs in five simple steps.
Turn Off the Water
The first thing you need to do to change your shower knobs is to turn off the water. You can simply turn off the water to your shower, but you can also turn off the water main.
Cover the Drain
Next, place a rag over the drain while you’re working. This will help you keep loose screws and parts from accidentally falling down the drain.
Remove the Current Shower Handles
Photo: ungvar / Adobe StockRemoving your existing shower handles might be easy or difficult, depending on whether there is mineral buildup or corrosion.
To get started, pop off any trim with a flathead screwdriver or a utility knife. Next, unscrew the screw that’s either under the plastic trim or under the handle.
Once that’s done, you can remove the shower handle by twisting the knob until it comes off. If the knob is giving you a hard time, you can apply plumber’s lubricant. If that doesn’t work, then you might need to grab a handle puller from the store. This nifty little tool helps you remove stubborn knobs.
Replace the Handles
Photos: KURJANPHOTO / iStock via Getty Images, KURJANPHOTO / iStock via Getty Images, Denise Berkhalter / iStock via Getty ImagesThe process of installing new shower knobs is essentially the same whether you have one, two, or three handles. When working with a triple knob setup, you need to keep track of which knob is which. Use tape and a marker to label the position of each handle.
Use plumber’s tape to wrap the base, then position the new handle in place and screw it until it’s tight. If the handle has any decorative trim or plastic knob labels, simply secure them in the correct place. If you have two or three knobs to install, repeat the process for the remaining handles.
Turn On the Water and Test New Shower Knobs
Turn the water back on, test the knobs, rotating or pulling them according to the type. Check for any leaks or loose parts.
Mistakes to Avoid When Replacing Shower Handles
The most common mistake made when replacing shower knobs is choosing replacements that aren’t compabtible with the shower valve. Unless you’re replacing plumbing along with the knob, the replacement knob should fit the existing fixture and valve. Otherwise, you’ll also need to call a local shower installer or plumber to replace the shower valve.
A final warning: Don’t skip the preparation steps of turning off the water and covering the drain. They might seem simple and unnecessary, but both can save you from dealing with water damage from unnecessary flooding or fishing down the drain for loose screws.
Safety Warning
Always turn off the water before starting a plumbing project. Doing so helps protect your home in case of flooding and water damage. You can shut off the water at the faucet or fixture you're working on or turn it off at your home's main shut-off valve.
When to Replace Shower Knobs
Over time, shower knobs can develop leaks, cracks, become difficult to turn, or stain with age. All of these are good reasons to replace the knobs. Keep in mind that there are many causes of shower leaks, and replacing the knobs might not be the ultimate solution.
You may also want to replace the knobs if you’re updating your shower. Shower knobs are relatively inexpensive and are easy to work into a bathroom refresh.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Photo: ungvar / Adobe Stock
Replacing your shower handles and knobs is a great DIY project that you can take on, even as a beginner. It doesn’t take a ton of time, and it’s a fun way to improve the appearance of your shower. Most replacement shower knobs or handles are budget-friendly and cost $10 to $40 each, depending on the style and finish. Designer handles can cost as much as $500.
The required materials are minimal, so the entire project will cost about $40 to $60. It will cost less if you have some of the materials on hand.
However, if you’re having trouble removing your existing handles or you have too much on your to-do list, you can hire a shower installer to help out. Expect to add $45 to $200 to the price of materials for about one hour of labor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can replace just the shower knobs if you don't have any plumbing issues that you need to take care of. If your shower has issues like leaks, strange whistling sounds, or inconsistent temperature, you may have to do more than replace the knobs. You should have a plumber check out the issue, but you may need to replace your shower valve.
There are three basic types of shower valves: pressure balancing, thermostatic, and diverters. A pressure-balancing shower valve senses changes in pressure from things like a flushing toilet. It partially closes one side of the incoming water to continue to deliver a steady water temperature. These valves only require one knob for temperature and pressure.
Thermostatic shower valves use a thermostat to control the temperature—but you need another knob to control the water volume. A diverter valve diverts the water from the tub faucet to the showerhead.
The amount of time it takes you to replace your shower knob will depend on your skill level and whether your existing knob is difficult to remove. It should only take about 30 minutes to get the job done, although it may take you a little longer. All in all, it's a quick project that has tons of visual impact.
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