If your faucet handle is stripped, then this guide will show you how to fix it in a fast and easy way. Using only basic tools, the whole process should take about 10 minutes max. Learn more below.
What Causes A Stripped Faucet Handle?
Stripped faucet handles are common occurrences in older homes. But what causes them? The wear and tear on the faucet stem, or cartridge, is frequently the cause. Over time, the set screw that holds the handle to the stem wears down. This can be caused by water build-up, corrosion, or simple wear and tear The set screw is what allows you to rotate the handle to turn on and off the water flow.
The handle connects to the cartridge, and the two operate together to regulate the water flow. The handle will feel loose or spin on its end if the stem gets damaged or removed. When it strips the faucet handle, it can no longer grip the stem and can cause problems with turning the faucet on or off.
Tools To Fix A Stripped Faucet Handle
The “faucet handle goes past stop” is a common problem that plumbers run into. In 10 minutes or less, you can fix the problem with these steps. This is a frequent home issue that affects almost all handles over time.
The good news is that, like many other sink problems, a DIY faucet handle repair can be performed in about 10 minutes with only a couple of screwdrivers (Phillips, Flathead, Allen), an adjustable wrench, and roughly $20. While there are many different models and kinds of faucets, we’ll concentrate on replacing the stem of a two-handle faucet in just five simple steps.
Steps To Repair A Stripped Faucet Handle
Repairing a faucet handle can be accomplished in five easy steps:
1. Shut off the water supply (and plug the drain!).
If you’re working on the sink, the valve and handle are normally located directly under it or inside the cabinet it’s built into. To turn off the water supply, turn the handle clockwise—righty and tighty. You’ll need to switch off your home’s main water supply if you’re taking care of a bathtub. Covering your drain is also a good idea; it’s an easy step to overlook, and it may result in screws and other objects being lost forever.
2. Remove the knobs or cover plates from the faucets.
You’ll need to remove the faucet handles or ornamental cover plates, depending on where the faucet body connects to the faucet cartridge. Handles are often unscrewed with your fingers, whereas cover plates are removed using a flathead screwdriver. The connection screw may be either a Phillips head or an Allen head screw, and each requires its own tool to remove.
3. Take off the locking nut.
When you remove the faucet on most models, you’ll see a locking nut that attaches the cartridge; this can be removed with only a pipe wrench. The top of the cartridge has a little brass screw; we suggest removing it and storing it away since not all replacement cartridges will have a new screw.
4. Remove the cartridge from the faucet.
The old cartridge may be taken easily out with the locking nut removed (resistance is to be expected). Simply grab the pliers). If you don’t already have the replacement, a trip to the hardware shop is in order; bring the old cartridge with you for comparison so you can make an informed decision.
5. Replace and retrace your steps
Replace the cartridge when you get home (no new screw? It’s a good thing you saved the old ones!). After that, repeat the removal procedures in reverse order until your faucet is operational again.
That’s all there is to it. Easy, right? Now, if you’d like to prevent future faucet handle repair, tighten the set screw any time the handle begins to feel a little loose. This should slow the stripping process and keep the water flowing for years to come.
If you need more information, online plumbing forums are also a great place to learn more about how to fix a stripped faucet handle. They can provide useful information to fix it in 10 minutes or less.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you fix a stripped faucet stem?
A: You would need to replace the faucet stem.
How do you fix a faucet handle that keeps turning?
A: There are a few ways to fix this issue. One way you can try is by using some rubber bands and wrapping them around the faucet handle, then cover it with tape so that it doesn’t turn freely anymore.
How do you fix a kitchen faucet handle?
A: To fix a kitchen faucet handle, you need to unscrew the nut connected to it. After that, use an adjustable wrench and turn the valve clockwise until water comes out of the spout.
Once water goes down the drain, it heads to the sewers, which can have their own set of problems. For more information, check out How to Keep Roots from Growing in Sewer Lines.
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