How to Remove American Standard Faucet Handle?

Removing an American Standard faucet’s handle may seem daunting, but it can be done easily with the right tools and techniques. Whether you need to replace a faulty handle or want to upgrade your faucet, knowing how to remove the handle is essential.

This guide will walk you through the steps on how to remove American Standard faucet handle.

Common Issues with American Standard faucet handles

American Standard is a popular brand of faucets and shower valves, but like any plumbing fixture, they can experience issues.

Some common issues you may encounter with American Standard faucet handles and shower valve include leaks or problems with the water supply, shower handle, shower trim, and the two screws holding the handle in place.

Also, stagnant water can lead to bacteria growth and unpleasant odors, so keeping your fixtures clean and well-maintained is important.

Tools Needed

1. Allen wrench (for handles with set screws)

2. Flathead screwdriver (for handles with cover plates)

3. Pliers (for handles that twist off)

How to Remove American Standard faucet handle step by step

Step 1: Turn off the water supply

Before you start removing the faucet handle, you need to turn off the water supply. This is important to prevent any accidental water leakage while you are working on the faucet handle.

Locate the shut-off valve under the sink and turn it clockwise to shut off the water flow.

If you need help determining which valve controls the hot water supply, you can turn off the main water supply valve to your house.

Step 2: Determine the type of faucet handle

There are two types of American Standard faucet handles: screw-on and slip-on. Screw-on handles have a set screw on the side of the handle, while slip-on handles do not have a visible set screw.

To remove the cover hiding the slip-on handle, pry it off with a flathead screwdriver.

Knowing the type of faucet handle you have is important to avoid damaging the handle or the surrounding fixtures during the handle removal process.

Step 3: Remove the decorative cap or cover

If your American Standard faucet handle has a decorative cap or cover, remove it first. Use a flathead screwdriver to pry off the cap or cover gently.

Be careful not to damage the finish. The decorative cap or cover usually conceals the mounting screw holding the handle.

Step 4: Remove the mounting screw

Use an Allen wrench or a small flathead screwdriver to remove the mounting screw holding the handle. Turn the screw counterclockwise until it comes loose.

Keep the screw in a safe place to easily find it when you need to reassemble the faucet handle.

Step 5: Remove the handle

Once you have removed the mounting screw, you can remove the handle. If the handle is stuck, you can use penetrating oil to loosen it up.

Use a pair of needle-nose pliers to pull the handle off gently. Be careful not to damage the stem or cartridge that controls the cold water flow.

How do you remove an American Standard single-handle faucet ?

Turn off the water supply

Before you start removing the faucet handle, make sure to turn off the water supply. The shut-off valve for the water supply is usually located under the sink. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water flow.

Determine the type of faucet handle

American Standard single handle kitchen faucets typically have screw-on handles. Look for a set screw on the side of the handle. If you see one, then you have a screw-on handle. If you don’t see a set screw, then you have a slip-on handle.

Remove the decorative cap or cover

If your American Standard single handle kitchen faucet handle has a decorative cap or cover, you need to remove it first.

You can use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry off the cap or cover. Be careful not to damage the finish.

Remove the mounting screw

Use an Allen wrench or a screwdriver to remove the mounting screw that holds the handle in place. Turn the screw counterclockwise until it comes loose.

Remove the handle

Once you have removed the mounting screw, you can remove the handle. If the handle is stuck, you can use penetrating oil to loosen it up. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers to pull the handle off gently

How do you remove an American Standard Shower Handle with no set screw?

Step 1: Identify the Type of Handle

The first step is to identify the type of shower handle you have. American Standard shower handles can be either knob-style or lever-style.

Knob-style handles often have a small button or screw cover on the side that hides the screw, while lever-style handles usually have a set screw on the underside of the shower handle.

Step 2: Look for a Button or Screw Cover

If you have a knob-style shower handle, look for a small button or screw cover on the side of the handle. Use a small flathead screwdriver to pry off the cover gently.

Once the cover is removed, you should see the screw holding the shower handle.

Step 3: Remove the Screw

Remove the screw that holds the handle in place using a Phillips-head screwdriver. Once the screw is removed, you can pull to lift the handle off the valve stem.

Step 4: Check for Hidden Screws

If you still can’t find any visible three flathead screws, the shower handle may be held in place by hidden screws.

Look for any small round opening or slots in the handle or trim plate. These may be hiding set screws that you can access with an Allen wrench.

Insert the Allen wrench into the opening hole or slot and turn it counterclockwise to loosen the set screw. Once the set screw is loosened, you should be able to pull the handle off the valve stem.

Step 5: Use a Handle Puller

If you’ve tried all of the above steps and still can’t remove the shower handle, you may need to use a handle puller.

A handle puller is a tool that’s designed to grip the handle tight and pull it off the valve stem.

Conclusion

Removing a faucet handle may seem like a daunting task, but it is quite simple. By following these steps, you can easily remove and repair an American Standard faucet handle without damaging your fixtures.

Remember to turn off the water supply before you start, and keep all the small parts in a safe place.

With a little patience and the right tools, you can successfully remove your faucet handle and make any necessary repairs or replacements.

FAQ

Can I use pliers to remove the mounting screw?

While pliers may be able to grip the mounting screw, it is not recommended to use them to remove the screw.

Using the appropriate tool, such as an Allen wrench or flathead screwdriver, will ensure that you do not damage the screw or the handle.

What if the decorative cap or cover is stuck?

If the decorative cap or cover is stuck, try using a flathead screwdriver to gently pry it off. Be careful not to apply too much force, which could damage the finish.

If the cap or cover still doesn’t budge, you may need to wait or use a penetrating oil to loosen it up before trying again.

How can I tell if my American Standard shower handle is a screw-on or slip-on type?

To determine if your American Standard shower handle is a screw-on or slip-on type, look for a set screw on the side of the handle. If there is a set screw, it is a screw-on handle.

If there is no visible set screw, it is a slip-on handle that can be removed by prying it off with a flathead screwdriver.