Have you tried checking for leaks or cleaning your Moen shower handle? If you have, then chances are you already know how confusing it can be. But the fact that it’s confusing shouldn’t deter you from giving it a try. 

Most of the issues with the Moen shower are a breeze to fix. You need to understand the steps to take. If you follow the right steps, you’ll discover that most DIY chores are a breeze. 

So, how can you remove a Moen shower handle? Read on! Let’s discuss the steps to take.

How To Remove A Moen Shower Handle

Removing a Moen shower handle may appear complicated, but it’s a lot easier when you follow the steps below.

Step 1: Look for the button or cap:

You need to check the handle carefully to locate the button or cap. You can find them on the top of the handle. 

Step 2: Pull the button or cap out with a screwdriver:

Insert a tiny screwdriver into the hole. Then rotate it around the corner gradually until the screw pops off. 

Remember that the Moen shower handles are fragile, so you need to handle them with care. Otherwise, they might break.

Step 3: Turn off the water supply valve:

Now, ensure you turn off the water supply when changing the Moen shower handle. And remember to cover the drain too.

Step 4: Take out the screw:

After you’ve pulled out the button, remove the screws from the inside using a spanner. You must first measure the screw size to know which spanner is best to use.

You also need to remove the screw with care because they’re small enough to wash down the drain fast.Again, ensure that your drain is closed well to avoid losing it down the drain.

Step 5: Pull the handle out:

Once you have succeeded in removing the screw, remove the Moen shower handle. Sometimes, it may not be easy to pull with your hands, so use a plier. 

However, using pliers can leave a horrible scratch on your handle. Therefore, wrap a towel over the base of your faucet handle before using pliers. You can remove any mineral deposits by using lemon or distilled water.

Viola! You’ve become a pro at removing a Moen shower handle with screws. But wait! What if your Moen handle doesn’t come with a screw, what do you do?

Bother less! We’ve got you. 

How To Remove A Moen Shower Handle Without Screws

Although no Moen handle is without screws, it’s difficult to see the screw because it’s right underneath the lever. Thus, the usual strategies for removing the Moen shower handle may not work.

This type of handle is bent into a 90-degree shape, so you’ll need a hex wrench.

Step 1: Turn off the water supply:

It’s essential you power off the water supply valve to avoid bathroom accidents.

Step 2: Twist the Moen shower handle from the base: 

Place the handle arm correctly and rotate the base in an anti-clockwise position. Now, remove the base

Step 3: Take out the screw:

You can take out the screws inside the facet after you’ve removed the base. Use a screwdriver to complete this task.

Step 4: Remove the cartridge:

Once you’ve removed the screw, you’ll see a visible cartridge below. Remove the cartridge by using a plier. Afterward, pull out your Moen shower handle. 

Why Is My Moen Shower Handle Difficult To Twist

These shower handles can become worn out, blocked, and damaged when you use them over time.

Moen shower handles can become difficult to turn for many reasons, the most common of which is accumulation. Water-borne mineral deposits, particularly calcium, can accumulate over time, clogging the screw mechanism inside.

In addition, residues from toiletries and shower products can make the handle so challenging to twist.

Minor leaks from both the external housing and the internal mechanism might cause these forms of buildup over time.However, if there’s no buildup,internal rust, or an old, broken rubber around the screws, it can tighten the Moen shower handle. 

How Do I Loosen A Tight Moen Shower Handle?

You can lose your tight handles by using the common tools you have at home and following the steps below. 

Step 1: Turn off the water supply:

If the bathroom lacks an isolation valve, shut off the house’s main water supply. Then, empty enough water by opening the valve until the flow slows and ceases.

Step 2: Remove the Moen shower handle:

Follow the steps outlined above to remove your shower handles, with or without screws. I’m sure you know how to do that already. 

Step 3: Examine the handle:

Look at the handle. If it appears that accumulation is the problem, you can soak the handle in white vinegar to dissolve the buildup. 

Check the packed nut at the stem base as well. You can clean the handle and loosen the nut gently using an adjustable wrench. 

Step 4: Replace the handle:

Insert the set screw and tighten the handle back into place. Ensure that the screw is tight enough to keep the faucet from leaking but not so tight that it causes stress inside the handle.

After you have reassembled, check if the valve is rotating smoothly. Then, replace the decorative cover. Finally, turn the water supply on after everything is back in place.

However, if any of the above isn’t working, check your Moen showerhandle properly. It may be old enough for a repair or replacement.  Check the manufacturer’s instructions for more suggestions on how to replace your handles. 

Does Moen Replace Shower Handle Parts?

The Lifetime Warranty on Moen shower handles cover leaks, drips, and finish flaws. If your shower handles leak within the warranty period, Moen will replace them, free of charge!

However, you must accompany all warranty claims with proof of purchase indicating the date and place of purchase. 

This warranty is comprehensive because it covers all damaged parts and finishes but does not cover damage caused by the use of non-genuine Moen parts. 

Furthermore, Moen warranty does not cover damage resulting from installation errors, product abuse, or misuse.

How Do I Adjust A Moen Shower?

Showers from Moen come in a range of sizes and styles and valve systems that help you adjust and personalize your shower experience. 

Step 1: Confirm the Preset Temperature Range:

Check the temperature range that has been set. The temperature valve helps to adjust temperatures ranging from 70 degrees Fahrenheit to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Adjust the temperature: 

Remove the plaster cap over the temperature and flow valves. Set the high limit for water temperature by turning the temperature valve counterclockwise. 

Push, hold, and turn the flow valve counterclockwise once you’ve reached the desired temperature. To establish the low-temperature limit, repeat the process in a clockwise direction. Then replace the plaster cap. 

Step 3: Adjust the PosiTemp device:

Turn off the supply mains of the cold water. Drain the line by turning the tap anti-clock wisely. Check the temperature of the hot water before turning the handle off.

Remove the handle socket button and the two screws that hold the temperature limit stop and the cover plate in place.

Replace the handle components and screw them in tightly after adjusting the temperature limit.

Step 4: Adjust the water pressure:

Minor adjustments to the water pressure are necessary if any foreign material clogs the waterline. This buildup will be evident when only a trickle of water drips from the shower faucet. 

Afterward, examine the water lines to ensure that they’re both open, including the screwdriver stop-check valves.

Step 5: Remove the balancing spool: 

You should turn off both the hot and cold water lines. Next, remove the balancing spool and shake to remove any foreign items. Ensure the inner piston is moving around before reinstalling the spool. Then, Replace the balance spool and tighten the screw to keep it in place.

Can I Swap Moen Shower Handles?

Moen makes a variety of shower rough-in valves, including four different styles of single-handle shower valves. Although the valves look alike, the trim is not interchangeable.

You can know which valve to install your shower handle by examining the escutcheon screw location and handle operation.

What’s The Perfect Cleaner For The Moen Shower Handle?

You can clean with a damp cloth and mild liquid dishwashing soap, rinse with water and dry with a soft towel. 

Do not use cleaners containing ammonia, abrasives, bleach or sodium hypochlorite, alcohols, or other harsh chemicals to clean. 

Clean according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Rinse the cleaners thoroughly with water as soon as possible after use.

Conclusion

Moet shower handles are designed to give your kitchen and bathrooms an eye-catching appearance and breathtaking look. However, these handles have versatile designs, some with screws and some without screws.

If you follow the detailed steps, you’ll be able to identify the most convenient method for removing your Moen shower handle during the replacement, repair, or cleaning process. 

So, do you think there’s a need to replace your Moen shower handle? If your answer is yes, then grab your tools and get to work.