Fixing a broken shower handle

[matt p]

Hi Everyone,

I just moved into a condo built in 99 and it apears that the handle in the shower/tub has broken off. The single handle is a Delta brand and I was wondering if this is the type of project that I can do by myself or if i'm better off calling a plumber. I've tried loking for a screw or something but can't seem to locate where it would attach to the broken shower handle.

If it is a DIY type project, any tips or instructions on how to fix this?

Also, since it's a condo, I don't have access to any shutoffs for water that feeds into the shower/tub unless it runs off the same shutoffs that control the sink.

I've never had to do anything like this so it is extremely intimidating for me right now, thanks for any help anyone can provide!

-Matt

[Patrick Cleburne]

Post a link to a picture so we can see what it is-- or head on down to Home Depot or a plumbing supply place and look for a similar model to see how to get it off.

Pat

[matt p]

Thanks for the reply. I believe that the model is similar to this:

It's a pretty basic model. Thanks for any help you guys can provide!

[Rich Greenberg]

If part of the handle is still there, there is probably a set screw needing an allan key to remove it. If its all gone, there will be a rod sticking out with either a threaded hole in the end, or marks on the side where a set screw was on it. Depends on type of handle. Can be either a plastic knob or a metal lever with a ball on the end.

See what they look like at the borg. You should be able to get a replacement there.

There SHOULD be a master valve that cuts off the whole unit's water somewhere. May be near the water meter or may be inside or outside the unit. Note. "SHOULD be" not "is".

If its just the handle, it can be put on without cutting off the water.

[Captain Joe Redcloud]

Is this a RENTAL? If so, call the super and have him fix it. Who will be responsible if something goes wrong with your attempt, and the water ends up flooding things? If you can't shut off the water, then I suggest you don't mess with it.

Commodore Joe Redcloud

[wkearney99]

That's unlikely. If it's a condo then you probably have your own water meter. That and the building code requires a shut-off per dwelling unit, not just for the entire building. It's there, you just don't know where yet.

Since it's a Delta it's pretty likely your average home supply store will have replacement parts. If not just the handle then for the entire cartridge assembly. Call Delta's 800 number and talk with one of their reps about it, or visit their website. They'll probably be able to explain 'enough of it' to you to decide if you want to do it yourself. Replacing a shower cartridge doesn't require much in the way of tools. Sometimes there's deep socket needed, along with an allen wrench or two. But nothing out of the ordinary or expensive.

But if you need to replace anything more than just the handle then you WILL need to shut off the water.

[Dan_Musicant]

: :I've never had to do anything like this so it is extremely intimidating :for me right now, thanks for any help anyone can provide! : :-Matt

Hi Matt,

I think you will find that it's not as hard as you thought. I understand that it's intimidating, but once you start doing things like this you start gaining confidence. The advice given by others in this thread is good. There's sure to be a water cutoff for your condo, but as remarked, you may well not need to shut off the water to replace the handle. It's probably just a matter of finding how to get the broken handle off, take it to a store and get a replacement and attach the replacement.

Dan