Removing a Pfister Shower Handle without a Screw: Easy Guide!

It could be for an upgrade or simply for repair purposes, but you need to find a way of removing the Pfister shower handle. 

The struggle is with the fact that there’s no set screw. Or something that is not allowing you to use the set screw for removal. Now what? 

How do you remove a Pfister shower handle with no screw?

To remove a Pfister shower handle that has no screw, you simply need to twist it counterclockwise. If the handle is stuck, you may require using a lubricant or penetrating oil. And in case of a broken set screw situation, you may even need to drill it out to remove the handle.

I know it sounds a little confusing right now. But after reading this guide, I think that won’t be the case. So, keep On Reading…

To Remove Pfister Shower Handle with No Screw

So, no screw secures the handle, how do I remove a Pfister shower handle in this case? 

There are actually quite a few things you can do to detach the handle. I’ll give you the general removal process below that you can check. 

Before this, you must turn off the water supply to your shower system. Some shower systems don’t come with separate shut-off valves. In that case, you need to turn off the whole unit’s main shut-off valve.

Find the Center Badge and Remove It

There should be a center badge that comes with a “PP” mark on it. This badge will have a tiny gap or groove on the edge. 

Simply insert a suitable tool into the gap. A small flat tool should work. Some may even get the work done using their fingernails (I won’t try this as my nails are quite fragile and break easily).

Whatever tool you choose, carefully and gently apply some force to pry the center badge outwards. Keep in mind that excessive pressure can break the part.

Methods to Remove the Handle Without Screws

Once the center badge is out, now it’s about how you remove the Pfister shower handle without screws.

Typically to remove the Pfister handle you need to grip it firmly and turn counterclockwise. It will twist out from the base. 

However, there are a few more methods to try when dealing with a handle that comes without set screws.

1. Secret Button or Cap

Some models may come with a hidden button or cap. This is meant to help the user remove the handle. You may find these by giving the handle surrounding a closer look. 

If you do discover one, use a screwdriver with a flathead (or anything similar) to pry off the button or cap. Again, it must be done carefully and with gentle force.

2. Threaded Handle

Some models simply use threaded handles. These are attached by threading onto the stem. In this case, you just need to twist the handle on the left side. Even pressure will be enough to detach the handle.

3. Not Visible Set Screw

Perhaps the Pfister shower handle comes with a set screw, but it is not in a visible spot. To remove the shower handle with no visible screws, try looking at its side.

Any tiny hole or indentation there gives a high chance that the model comes with a set screw you need to expose. Look into the holes using a flashlight. 

And if you find a slot there for a tool (usually an Allen wrench), insert and turn to loosen the handle.

4. Attached Handle with Glue or Caulking

The handle of the shower might just be attached using some adhesive or caulk. Here you require breaking the seal to detach the handle. A low-speed hair dryer can help. If you own a heat gun that can also come in handy. 

You just want to evenly heat the adhesive area to soften it. At one point, twisting or prying the handle off will be possible due to the loosened adhesive/caulking. You should never try overheating as that will damage the surroundings of the handle.

5. Handle that Requires Removal Tool

Finally, the shower handle may require a specialized tool for removal. A handle puller is what comes to my mind instantly. You will find these at a local hardware store. But do mention the Pfister model you will use the tool for.

One of these methods should help you remove the Pfister shower handle. After the handle is out, you can go ahead with your specific purpose of removal. Maybe you wanted to clean the handle, or perhaps it’s about repairing a broken handle. 

After you are done, you can reattach or replace the handle using the same mechanism for removal.

To Remove Stuck Pfister Shower Handle with No Set Screw

Repairing a hard-to-turn-off single-handle shower faucet or stuck-handle shower can feel like a headache especially when there’s no set screw to it. 

In the presence of a screw, you simply require loosening it for removal. But since there’s no screw, exactly how do you remove a stuck Pfister shower handle?

To remove a stuck Pfister shower handle without any set screw you can try using a loosening agent like WD-40. Clearing the buildup responsible for the stuck handle or using a strong penetrating oil can also help.

1. Using Spray WD-40

This is the easiest solution, as most of us do have WD-40 or a similar spray lubricant at home. Unless you are not a big fan of repairing and DIYing things around at home. 

You can simply spray the WD-40 into the handle’s stuck spot. Leave it for a few minutes and then try removing it. This method particularly works if corrosion or debris obstruction is responsible for the stuck situation.

2. Penetrating Oil

Use a strong quality penetrating oil into the cap of the handle. This is meant for serious jams and years-old handles. 

Because you need to let the oil soak the mechanism for at least a few days. Whatever is making the handle stuck will dissolve and you will be able to pry it off.

3. Cleaning Build-up

Take a zip lock bag or any polythene bag to pour an equal portion of white vinegar and water. Now take the bag to the handle to let it soak into the solution. Use a rubber band to attach the bag around the handle so that you can leave it soaking. 

If the buildup is not too severe, 2 hours should be enough. However, if it’s a pretty old and dirty handle, consider leaving it overnight. The next day, rinse the handle with clear water and try removing it.

4. Professional Help

This is often the necessary step to take if the handle is just not coming out, no matter what solution you try. Unfortunately, you may require breaking the handle and that can be quite a risky plot. 

So, getting from the experts is suggested. If you are lucky enough, the professional may have some way to remove the handle without breaking it. But be mentally prepared that this might be the case.

How Do You Loosen a Shower Handle Screw That’s Accidentally Broken?

Perhaps the Pfister shower handle does come with a set screw, but you have mistakenly broken it. What to do now? How to remove shower handle without screws, as those are clearly unusable?

This is a tricky job, to be honest. In some cases, you will get sorted by simply buying a suitable shower handle removal tool. However, it is also possible that the situation demands drilling out the broken set screw.

Here’s the process given briefly:

Now one thing I would suggest you do before trying this method is check the warranty clauses and of course, the manual itself. 

The manufacturer may warn against any drilling out or breaking of components for the shower handle. 

Also, there could be specific clauses mentioning that a given warranty becomes invalid if you damage any part intentionally. Drilling out the screws could be considered intentional damage. So, make sure you are getting these possibilities out of the way before attempting.

Wrapping Up

And there you have some possible solutions to remove Pfister shower handle with no screw. Go ahead and give these a try. Hopefully, you will be able to manage the handle without any problems.

However, the situation can be severe, and you may not realize it at this point. If you are not a mechanically inclined person who is used to trying such home repairs, then calling a professional might be the better route.

On that note, I will take your leave for today! Stay tuned for similar guides in the future, take care.