How to Remove HVAC Controls Without Breaking Everything?

Should be simple, right? I think someone actually glued two of the HVAC knobs to the HVAC stems because I simply cannot get them off. I eventually got a pair of pliers and a soft rag and grabbed the knob, but it isn't budging. I fear any additional pressure trying to remove the 2 knobs is going to result in damage to the HVAC control unit and the knobs themselves.

The reason for removing these components is there is an annoying rattle coming from behind the HVAC trim panel. I have already noticed the trim screws behind the center vents are missing and so is the trim screw missing behind the one knob I was able to remove. Absolutely don't understand why people can't take something apart and put it back together the right way...

 

Maybe the rattle is from the lack of screws? Try putting screws in if you can not easily remove knobs.

Try pulling knobs harder? Cut knob with Dremel and whittle away the part connected to stem?

 

Good suggestion about putting screws in. I'm gonna have to find the correct size as they are missing. Afraid if I pull any harder it will damage the control unit or break the control unit stems. If I cut the knobs with a Dremel, I'm likely to ruin the HVAC trim panel doing it. Don't want to go there if I don't have to.

 

Had a glued knob on my HVAC panel... warmed it up with a hair dryer and gave it a good pull... popped right off.

 

EXCELLENT suggestion! Never thought to try that.

Will try this tomorrow.