Help removing 2 Grohe shower tub handles with no screws!

[3h4life]

I have 2 bathrooms, both using the same type of shower handle/knobs but in different colors. I would like to replace them, however, I'm unable to remove the knobs. I can't locate any screws on them at all and I have no clue how they are attached to begin with. I tried pushing and twisting the knob really hard, but it feels like it would break if twisted any harder. There is no logo or brand label anywhere. Is someone able to identify this set up and how to remove the handles?! Please help!!

 

[Terry]

That valve is made by Grohe. You just pull them straight off.
To replace, push them back on.
There is a plastic backing that allows snap on and snap off.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[3h4life]

Thanks Terry, I'll give it a shot later. A few days ago, I didn't understand the intricacies of changing out shower handles. I assumed it was a simple remove and replace with whatever you like, however, I was told you have to stick with the same brand in order to fit? I've been shopping big box stores such as HD and Lowes for the whole shower head, handle, and spout kit so it matches, but I don't see many 2 handle shower kit options at all. I was recommended to change to 1 handle like most houses, but the tub wall that I currently have is some sort of half inch fiber-glass, very sturdy/solid feeling material. It can't be patched and the whole tub wall would need to be ripped out and replaced which I don't have the funds to do.

I have 3 questions:
Do I have to stick with the same brand handles and what if I can't find them anywhere?
Is there a non-invasive method of replacing my current 2 handle to a 1 handle shower?

Thanks!

 

[Cacher_Chick]

Current codes require shower\tub valves to have anti-scald protection built into the valve, which is much easier to do with a single handle valve.

It has been commonplace to replace the old two handle setup using a remodel plate, with covers the holes from the old valves. It is a much easier job to do if the valve can be accessed from the opposite side of the wall. Installing an access panel or a little drywall repair can be part of the job.

 

[Terry]

We plumbers sometimes use a remodel plate when we change out a two or three handle faucet for a single.
You don't see double handles much anymore, because they haven't been legal for some time now.

https://terrylove.com/forums/index....-tub-shower-faucet-with-moen-posi-temp.55933/

With the old valve cut out and replaced with a Moen Posi-Temp

And all put back together.

A home center isn't going to have replacement Grohe handles. I would check with Grohe and see what they have for that.

 

[Koa]

Here's a pic of what the valve looks like under a Grohe handle of similar design. They require quite of bit of force to pull off. Be careful you don't fall or drop the handle when it pulls free. Maybe put a towel down in the tub. The escutcheon plate is threaded onto nut that holds the valve to the wall, it needs to be unscrewed to remove.

 

[Jadnashua]

There are some two-handle valves that meet code, but they aren't all that common: typically, one valve handle controls volume, and the second controls temperature. SOmetimes, the two are concentric, sometimes, they are separated. Much more common to do it in one handle and less expensive. OFten, those with two handles may incorporate a thermostatically controlled valve, but it can be done without.

Delta makes one series that can use all three common types: single handle pressure balanced, two (concentric) handles, volume/temp, and two handles (sometimes levers) volume, thermostatically controlled valve. You can change it later on if you change your mind by buying new trim and a new cartridge (they package the trim and cartridge separate from the rough-in, at least on the pro side...the big box stores often combine it as a kit, but you have less selection that way).

Personally, I really like the thermostatically controlled valves - find your ideal temp, and never have to move it...just turn the water on. Those that aren't thermostatic, are pretty good, but things can change a lot when winter comes and the cold water temp goes way down.

 

[3h4life]

Thanks for all the responses. I was able to pull out the handles like Terry mentioned. Now I'm looking at the valve stems? Do you know what handles would be compatible with these stems now or do I need to replace them as well to fit new handles. If I need to remove them, how do they come off? I can't really get a good look behind the shower wall of how it is fitted on. Should I try twisting it counter-clockwise and see if it comes off?

 

[3h4life]

Thanks for all the responses. I was able to pull out the handles like Terry mentioned. Now I'm looking at the valve stems? Do you know what handles would be compatible with these stems now or do I need to replace them as well to fit new handles. If I need to remove them, how do they come off? I can't really get a good look behind the shower wall of how it is fitted on. Should I try twisting it counter-clockwise and see if it comes off?

And if it matters, the length of the stem from the wall is 2.25". I tried buying a universal fit escutcheon and handle but the handle wasn't deep enough to fit over the stem and completely secure the handle in place.

 

[hj]

There is NO WAY you will ever find parts for a Grohe faucet at Home Depot, any other big box store, OR hardware store. You get them at specialty parts stores or plumbing stores. You can ONLY use Grohe stems that look exactly like the ones you have, so the old handles will fit them or you can buy NEW Grohe handles to fit them. You CANNOT just buy some handles you thing look good and install them.

 

[Terry]

Have you tried a Chrysler door knob yet?

 

[hj]

When was the last time you saw any auto with an actual "door knob"?

 

[Koa]

You might want to go to Grohe's website, under support, figure out what model you have and look up parts. I'm not sure if handles are still available for your faucet but if they are Grohe might send them to you for free.

Grohe has sent me a couple of soap dispensers plus parts, two Ladylux handheld units for kitchen sinks and a quick disconnect for the kitchen handheld all for free. I also have a shower handheld unit they will replace for free if I send it back to them.

 

[3h4life]

So I was told by Grohe to purchase and install new cartridges (45882/hot; 45883/cold), then I would be able to install some of their compatible handles. I purchased the Talia: 19262, however, I noticed it came with its own cartridge already screwed into the handle as well. When I took out the handle cartridge and compared it to the 45882/3 cartridge, they are both different, although the tip is the same. My first impression is the cartridges/stems are too short to install the handle onto my tub wall. If you noticed my existing stems, they come out 2.25" from the tub wall, however, these new stems would only come out a quarter of an inch so I wouldn't be able to install the handles with the trim at all. Am I missing something here? Please help!

Left cartridge is 45882/3, right cartridge is one that came with handle.

 

[3h4life]

More pics for better understanding.

 

[TAM125]

Were you successful in this replacement??? These look just like the ones I need to replace in my new home...

 

[Kenneth Hayes]

Hello,

I have some Grohe faucets with the same handles. Did you happen to learn the model name and date of production of these faucets? If you did, I'd like to know.

Thanks, Ken

 

[TAM125]

Hello,

I have some Grohe faucets with the same handles. Did you happen to learn the model name and date of production of these faucets? If you did, I'd like to know.

Thanks, Ken

Hi Ken, Sorry, I don't go on here often, so I just saw your post. Yes, you probably already figured it out, but I did successfully replace the Grohe tub knobs (old brass) with the same part Grohe tub knobs (chrome). It was titled, Two Handle Shower/Tub Combination 25 500. The catalogue #of the knob is 06-490 and the catalogue # of the handle connection set is 45-001. The cold water knob has been fine, the hot water knob comes off if pulled not that hard. I think something is wrong about the plastic ring that is supposed to hold it in place. Terri