How to Fix a Stripped Faucet Handle in 10 Minutes or Less.
- 1. Turn off the water (and cover the drain!) If you’re working on the sink, you can usually find the valve and handle right below it or within the ...
- 2. Remove faucet handles or cover plates.
- 3. Remove locking nut.
- 4. Remove the faucet cartridge.
- 5. Replace and retrace.
How to repair a loose kitchen sink faucet?
What you need to do:
- Clear under the sink to create maximum space to work.
- Plug the sink’s drain to prevent nuts, screws, or other small components from falling in.
- Switch off the water supply valves from below the sink. ...
- Open the faucet to verify that the water supply lines are off and release any pressure in the water lines. ...
How do you repair a faucet handle?
- If the handle has a cap, remove it with a flat head screwdriver. Use a Phillips screwdriver to unscrew the handle.
- Remove the faceplate behind the handle from the shower wall. ...
- Find the metal sleeve over the shower valve. ...
- If the shower valve has a locking clip, pry it off with needle nose pliers or a screwdriver.
How do you fix a loose faucet handle?
Tightening a Faucet Handle
- Before you begin, ensure that you rid the sink cabinet of all objects that could hinder the access to the supply valves at the back of the sink cabinet.
- Next, turn off the water supply to the faucet.
- Inspect the handle of the faucet. ...
- Slide the end of the correct size of the hex head wrench into the set screw and turn clockwise until it is tight. ...
How do you fix a broken kitchen faucet?
Repairing a Kitchen Faucet
- Turn off the water at the valves under the sink, and turn on the faucet to allow the water to drain.
- Use slip-joint pliers to remove the chrome bonnet. Wrap masking tape around the teeth of the pliers to avoid damaging the chrome.
- Fish out the springs and packing pieces with needlenose pliers. ...
How do I fix a single handle faucet?
0:402:56How to Repair a Leaky Single Handle Cartridge Faucet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFirst you will need to turn off the hot and cold water supply valve under the sink. Next you willMoreFirst you will need to turn off the hot and cold water supply valve under the sink. Next you will need to remove the single lever handle. This may require using an allen wrench to loosen the handle.
How do you fix a broken faucet handle?
0:050:48Bathroom Repair : How to Repair a Sink Handle - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThere's an allen wrench right inside of here that you're going to loosen. And this handle will pullMoreThere's an allen wrench right inside of here that you're going to loosen. And this handle will pull right off.
How do you take apart a faucet handle?
2:513:44How to Remove a Faucet Handle - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAgain make sure that the drain is closed or covered. This is a tiny screw.MoreAgain make sure that the drain is closed or covered. This is a tiny screw.
How do you fix a broken kitchen faucet handle?
Use a screwdriver for popping off the decorative cap. Lift or turn the handle to reveal the screw and use your hex key wrench to remove it. Slide the handle off or out from the valve stem. Using your new materials, reattach the handle or attach the new handle by replacing it on the valve stem and tightening the screw.
How do you fix a broken faucet stem?
1:315:29Faucet stem repair and replacement - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf you have a plastic stem. You'll need to unscrew the top cap and pop out the stem. A few brassMoreIf you have a plastic stem. You'll need to unscrew the top cap and pop out the stem. A few brass stems need to be removed this way as well.
Can you replace just the handle on a kitchen faucet?
The goal is to separate the parts so that you can salvage and reuse the cap. You'll still have to buy a new handle and a repair kit that includes a new ball. If this kitchen faucet repair doesn't work, the only solution is to replace the entire faucet.
How do you remove a faucet handle with no visible screws?
You can use an allen wrench (also called an allen key) to remove it. Once you've done that, you can typically just lift the faucet handle off. However, if it has a cartridge inside, you may need to unscrew a top piece as well to be able to remove the cartridge.
How do you take apart a two handle faucet?
1:084:49How to Repair a Leaky Two-Handle Faucet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou will need to remove it by using a wrench to rotate it in the off direction until it threads outMoreYou will need to remove it by using a wrench to rotate it in the off direction until it threads out entirely. Once removed you'll need to take your stem to your local retailer.
How do you remove a screwless tap handle?
1:075:17how to remove a tap with no screw with Inspire DIY Kent ThomasYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipPut it on there and then put a pair of grips on to loosen it. Same again and undo the tap all theMorePut it on there and then put a pair of grips on to loosen it. Same again and undo the tap all the way to the top. And then you'll be able to undo.
How do you replace a single handle kitchen faucet?
2:1512:21How to Replace a Kitchen Faucet With a Single Handle | The Home DepotYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou'll need to turn off the water to the entire house in order to replace. It. You'll need to takeMoreYou'll need to turn off the water to the entire house in order to replace. It. You'll need to take out the old supply line connections to your faucet. Before you can remove.
How do you reattach a bathroom faucet handle?
0:192:47Bathroom faucet handles loose/wobbly - DIY fix - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipProject what you want to do is go to your handle. And locate your actual allen screw in our case onMoreProject what you want to do is go to your handle. And locate your actual allen screw in our case on the cold is right there.
How do you fix a spinning faucet handle?
Spinning faucet handles can be caused by general wear and tear on the faucet stem, otherwise known as the faucet cartridge. This part can be replaced by removing the faucet from the sink and inserting the new cartridge.
How do you remove a screwless faucet handle?
Once you find the necessary tools, you'll need to follow these steps to remove the screwless faucet handle successfully.Step 1: Turn off the water. ... Step 2: Remove the cap on top of your faucet. ... Step 3: Remove the hidden set crew. ... Step 4: Remove the faucet handle. ... Step 5: Rinse off mineral deposits.
How to Fix a Dripping or Leaky Double-Handle Faucet
Learn how to repair three types of double-handle faucets: ceramic disc, compression/reverse-compression and cartridge.
Repairing Different Types of Faucets
Keep in mind that some cartridge bodies and ceramic disc bodies/cylinders can look similar. In most cases, the cartridge body doesn't have moving parts. The ceramic disc body/cylinder does have moving parts that pivot to open the ports on the bottom.
Locate the Leak
Determine which side of your faucet is leaking by shutting off the water supply valves one at a time. If the leak doesn’t stop after the first valve is turned off, it’s the other line that’s leaking.
Ceramic Disc Faucets
This type of faucet uses a cylinder with tiny discs on the bottom that control water flow. The most successful repair typically replaces the entire cylinder.
Compression & Reverse-Compression Faucets
In this repair, you’ll replace the washer and O-ring or gasket on the valve stem, as well as the valve seat in the faucet.
Aerator
After reassembling your faucet, run the water for a few minutes to clear debris from the new parts. Replace the aerator.
How to Fix a Dripping or Leaky Single-Handle Faucet
Learn to repair three types of single-handle faucets: ball, cartridge and ceramic disc.
How long does it take to fix a faucet handle?
The good news is that like a number of sink issues, a DIY faucet handle fix can be completed in just 10 minutes with nothing more than a couple screwdrivers, a wrench, and about $20.
Why does my faucet spin on end?
The cartridge attaches to the handle and the two components work together to control the water flow. When the stem becomes stripped, the handle will feel loose or just spin on end.
Can you lift out an old cartridge?
With the locking nut off, the old cartridge can be lifted right out (if there’s resistance, that’s not uncommon. Just reach for the pliers). If you don’t already have the replacement, a trip to the hardware store is in order; bring the old cartridge for comparison to make a foolproof purchase.
Can you remove a faucet with a pipe wrench?
On most models, removing the faucet reveals a locking nut that secures the cartridge; this can be removed with nothing more than a pipe wrench. Note that there is a small brass screw on the top of the cartridge; we recommend removing this and setting it aside as not all replacement cartridges will include a new screw. 4.
What does it mean when a faucet leaks under the handle?
If you notice a leak under the handle of your faucet, you may have a faulty seat washer. Purchase a leak repair kit for your particular type or brand of faucet, follow the instructions, and use the included parts to take care of this type of leak.
How to stop water from gushing out of faucet?
This will stop water from gushing out of your faucet when you unscrew it later. Press the off switch on your water main box to turn off the water. Alternatively, look under your sink for a small valve.
How to tighten a headgear nut?
1. Screw the headgear nut back on using a spanner. Locate the headgear nut and place it back to its original spot. Make sure the handle is in its original placement before you tighten the screw. Turn the spanner towards the right to tighten the screw.
What is the O ring on a faucet?
The “O” ring is a piece of rubber that sits under the headgear nut. A damaged “O” ring is the cause of a leaky faucet handle. Stretch the ring off the spout and pull it out of the faucet. Keep the “O” ring in case you need it to identify what size replacement ring you will need. [7]
Why does my faucet make a dripping noise?
The annoying drip of a leaky faucet handle can cause higher water bills and make an irritating dripping noise. Luckily, it's quite an easy problem to fix yourself. A leaking handle is normally caused by a damaged “O” ring inside the faucet.
How to find the brand of a faucet?
Once you know, visit the manufacturer’s website or look up their customer service phone number. Some brands guarantee their faucets for life and will supply replacement cartridges free of charge if you contact them directly. Otherwise, you can just buy one from them.
How to get air bubbles out of water pipes?
Turn on the water mains and gently turn on the faucet. It is important to turn the tap on gently at first to release any air bubbles. After the air bubbles are out of the pipes the tap can be used as per usual. [15]
Techniques for solving a tough faucet problem
Repair a drippy ball-type faucet using these pro tricks to deal with stubborn screws. You may have to replace the handle, but not the entire faucet.
Kitchen Faucet Repair: Loosen a stuck screw on a single-handle faucet
If the Allen screw is stuck, or if you strip it so it won’t come out, remove the cap with the handle still in place. You can’t grab the flattened edges with the handle in place. Instead, for this kitchen faucet repair, cushion the jaws of pliers and grip the round edge below.
How to Remove Faucet Handle
If you can’t loosen the Allen screw on the handle of a ball-type faucet, don’t let that 15¢ screw force you into a $100 faucet replacement… just yet! Normally you have to remove the handle to get the worn rubber seats that cause the drip (Figure A). First try spraying the screw with penetrating oil every day for a week.
Required Tools for this kitchen faucet repair Project
Have the necessary tools for this DIY kitchen faucet repair project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.
Required Materials for this kitchen faucet repair Project
Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here’s a list.
How to stop a faucet from making a noise?
What you should do instead is coat the cartridge with a layer of petroleum jelly. The greasy nature and thick consistency of petroleum jelly serve to stop your faucet from emitting displeasing sounds. In addition, petroleum jelly is a much more affordable option, retailing at a mere 4 dollars for a whopping 13 oz.
Why does my faucet make a noise?
This issue can be ascribed to calcium deposits or worn-out faucet stems, both of which can have a negative impact on the water flow inside your faucet. When the water’s force is too strong, it puts excessively high pressure on your faucet, causing it to produce screeching sounds.
How long do faucet cartridges last?
But, to be more specific, the most expensive cartridges, which cost roughly 30 dollars, can last a good two or three decades.
What is a low flow faucet?
As the name suggests, these models regulate water flow, ensuring that it does not exert too much pressure on your faucet.
Can you take off a handle by hand?
If you’re lucky, then at this point, you can effortlessly prise off the handle by hand.
Can grease clog drain pipes?
In addition, as the coating accumulates over time, it can cause unwanted blockages and consequently clog up your drain pipes.
Can you take out the cartridge on a faucet?
By now, you can easily take out the cartridge, which refers to the inner part of the faucet stem. Some people like to buy to utterly new cartridge because it is a sure-fire way to eliminate squeaking sounds.
What is a two handle faucet?
Most bathroom faucets that have two handles are cartridge-style faucets. Each faucet handle (hot and cold) has its own cartridge, a valve that turns with the handle to control the flow of water into the faucet spout. If you have a very old two-handle faucet, it may be a compression-type rather than a cartridge.
How to get water out of a faucet when shut off?
Once the water is shut off, open the faucet fully to release any pressure in the water lines and let any water drain out. If your shutoff valves have levers instead of knobs, rotate the levers until they are perpendicular to the water pipes or tubing (the direction of the water flow).
What is a setcrew on a faucet?
Some handles have setscrews on the side or rear. Others have a decorative cap (usually plastic) that conceals a screw that secures the handle. Your faucet may also have a removable lever that unscrews from the handle base to allow easy access to the handle setscrew. If your faucet has a decorative cap, pry off the cap with a small flathead ...
What is a compression type faucet?
If you have a very old two-handle faucet, it may be a compression-type rather than a cartridge. You'll know when you remove the faucet handle: Cartridges are usually plastic and are held in place with a metal retaining nut; compression faucets usually have a metal valve with a flat rubber washer on the bottom.
How to loosen a cartridge retaining nut?
Loosen the cartridge retaining nut, using a pipe wrench or tongue-and-groove pliers. Unscrew the nut all the way and remove it from the faucet body. Note the brass screw at the top of the cartridge, if there is one. Its purpose is to reinforce the cartridge shaft when the faucet body's setscrew is tightened against it.
How to insert a new cartridge in a faucet?
Insert the new cartridge into the faucet body in the same orientation as the original cartridge, aligning any tabs on the cartridge with the notches on the faucet body. Push the cartridge all the way into the housing.
How to turn on water shut off valve?
Turn on the shutoff valve for the water supply to the tap by opening it counterclockwise all the way. Test the faucet for proper operation.
