How Can Be Fixed A Stiff Faucet Handle:
A malfunctioning faucet that has become stiff and difficult to turn can quickly become a problem. Fixing a stubborn faucet handle is something you need to do sooner rather than later as it could become stuck and prevent you from getting water. Whether the faucet is used in your bathroom or kitchen, a stuck faucet can quickly become a problem.
Certain people face this type of problem in their kitchen or bathroom but they have to hire a plumber due to known information about the solution.
Fortunately, repairing a faucet handle shouldn’t be difficult for us. All you need is a few tools, a bit of time, and a willingness to fix the problem.
After testing physically by ourselves, research, and expert’s opinions we have gotten some tips to solve this problem. However, this information will help to fix the problem of the hard handle. Read on for a guide on how to fix your troubled faucet. Also, we’ll try to let you know about the reason behind why the faucet handle becomes hard to turn.
Why is it Difficult to Turn a Faucet Handle?
There are a number of things that can cause faucet handles to be difficult to close are turning. One of the main reasons is mineral deposits that build up and start causing problems. Another possible reason lies in the faucet cartridge which can eventually develop problems making the faucet handle difficult to turn.
Regardless of whether it is a mixer tap or a set of Handles, the solution to the problem is not too complex.
Also, if the faucet has not been used for a long time period it can also build up mineral deposits such as rust, lime, and calcium. This build-up makes the handle hard to rotate the valve.
Now, you have known the reason of becoming a faucet handle is hard to turn. At the end of this stage bellow we’ll try to describe the solution of the problem.
Can WD-40 be used on a faucet?
Yes, You’re allowed to use WD40 on a faucet. In this case, where the faucet handle doesn’t turn, try using a little WD-40 to see if it fixes the problem. WD-40 helps to lubricate the faucet handle and hopefully, it will encourage the movement.
This can help loosen the grip enough so that it’s smoother and easier to turn.
If that doesn’t help, try opening the screw on the grips easy to solve. If you’ve been playing with your faucet lately, either fastening parts or looking for the mark, you may have overtightened the screw. Over-tightening the screw can limit the movement of the handle.
How to loosen a stiff Faucet Handle?
Loosening the stiff faucet handle may take a little while but it is not difficult as we think. First, you need to examine the inside of the faucet to confirm the problem. From there, you can reach the exact point of the problem which we try to find.
As with any project that involves disassembling a faucet, you will need to turn off the water at the faucet. The valves may be located under the sink, but if your faucet is not equipped with local valves, then you’ll have to close the main water supply shut-off valve.
Check that the water is off by opening the tap and checking that no water is flowing.
What you need – How Can Be Fixed A Stiff Faucet Handle
- Phillips screwdriver or Allen key
- Flat screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- Pliers
- Replacement cartridge (if required)
- Towel
Gather all the necessary materials that should have to you and check that the water is turned off. Drape a towel over the drain so you don’t lose parts, and then you can head to town to disassemble that unruly faucet handle. Next, remove the set screw that holds the handle in place. This screw can be on the bottom or side of the faucet.
Some models may have a decorative cap that hides the screw. In this case, all you have to do is remove the faucet cover and locate the screw.
Use the screwdriver that you have or Allen wrench to remove the screw, and then remove the faucet handle. In some cases, there is no screw in the handle, so you simply have to twist the center of the handle to remove it. Once you remove the handle you will notice a large nut located on top of the faucet valve. To remove the nut you need to use an adjustable wrench.
Before removing the cartridge from the faucet body, note the orientation of the cartridge. That’s better for you while reassembling the faucet. If you need it, the better way is to take a picture of the orientation before removing it. To remove the cartridge, hold the cartridge with pliers and pull it straight up. Some brands require a unique tool called a cartridge extractor. In this case, search for the brand name and find the right device.
Clean the cartridge
- For this next step you will need:
- Vinegar
- Wire brush
- Replacement parts (as needed)
Once removed, carefully inspect the cartridge for corrosion. If you find any corroded or rusted spots, try using a wire brush to clean the faucet valve. White vinegar can also help loosen and remove rust. If the damage seems severe, it’s best to buy a replacement faucet inner part.
When buying a replacement cartridge, take the old one with you in the market to make sure you’re choosing the right one model.
Since you have already disassembled the faucet, you can also rub the rust off the other parts of the faucet. Although the cartridge is often the culprit when it comes to turning stiff faucet handles, it doesn’t hurt to give the other parts of the faucet a thorough cleaning.
Put it All Together – How Can Be Fixed A Stiff Faucet Handle
Once you have cleaned the faucet cartridge or possibly bought a new one, you will need to reinstall all parts. Replace the cartridge according to the (previous) original orientation. Tighten the nut and then reattach the faucet handle.
Tighten the screw that secures the handle, and then inspect the handle. The handle should move normally and you can now turn the water back on and go about your day.
Conclusion
Finally, we have told you all the informative tips that make your work easy and save your money. If you try these tips then you’ll not need to hire any plumber and waste your money. Everyone can repair the faucet handle if he works in accurate ways that we have guided.
If you people have better ways to fix the stiff faucet handle, then please tell us. We hope you enjoyed this informative blog post.
