Faucets are an integral part of any household plumbing system. They provide us with access to clean water and help us with our daily chores. However, even the most durable and well-maintained faucets can develop problems over time, especially when it comes to the handles. A faulty faucet handle can be an annoyance and even lead to water damage. In this blog, we’ll go over some common faucet handle problems and give you tips on how to fix them.

Loose Handles

A loose handle is a common faucet problem that can be easily fixed. The first step is to tighten the screw that holds the handle in place. This screw is usually located under a decorative cap or cover that can be pried off with a screwdriver or a knife. If the screw is already tight and the handle is still loose, then the problem may be with the stem inside the faucet. In this case, you may need to replace the stem or the entire faucet.

Leaking Handles

A dripping faucet can be frustrating and wasteful. If your faucet is leaking from the handle, the problem may be with the O-ring or the washer. To fix the problem, turn off the water supply and remove the handle. Replace the O-ring or the washer with a new one of the same size and shape. Reassemble the faucet and turn on the water supply to check for leaks.

Stiff Handles

If your faucet handles are difficult to turn or are stuck in place, the problem may be due to mineral buildup inside the faucet. To fix this problem, turn off the water supply and remove the handle. Soak the faucet parts in a solution of vinegar and water for a few hours. This will dissolve any mineral buildup and make the parts easier to move. Reassemble the faucet and turn on the water supply to test the handles.

Broken Handles

If your faucet handle is broken, it will need to be replaced. You can find replacement handles at your local hardware store or online. To replace the handle, turn off the water supply and remove the old handle. Attach the new handle to the stem and tighten the screw that holds it in place. Reassemble the faucet and turn on the water supply to test the handle.

Summary

In conclusion, a faulty faucet handle can be a nuisance, but it can be fixed with some basic plumbing knowledge and a few tools. If you encounter a problem that you can’t fix on your own, don’t hesitate to call a plumber. Regular maintenance can help prevent faucet problems from occurring in the first place, so don’t forget to keep your faucets clean and well-maintained.