Renovation revolution: how to disassemble your faucet handle like a pro

A leaky faucet is a common household annoyance that can waste water and increase utility bills. If you’re experiencing a leaky faucet, you may be able to fix it yourself by disassembling the faucet handle and replacing the washer or O-ring. This blog post will provide a step-by-step guide on how to disassemble a faucet handle, covering various types of faucets and handles.

Types of Faucets and Handles

Before you begin disassembling your faucet handle, it’s important to identify the type of faucet you have. Here are the most common types:

• Single-handle faucets: These faucets have a single lever that controls both the water flow and temperature.
• Two-handle faucets: These faucets have two separate handles, one for hot water and one for cold water.
• Pull-out faucets: These faucets have a spout that can be pulled out from the base, making it easier to wash dishes or fill pots.
• Pull-down faucets: These faucets have a spout that can be pulled down from the base and used as a sprayer.

Faucet handles also come in various styles, including:

• Lever handles: These handles are typically found on single-handle faucets and are moved up and down to control the water flow.
• Knob handles: These handles are typically found on two-handle faucets and are turned clockwise or counterclockwise to control the water flow.
• Cross handles: These handles are similar to knob handles but have a cross shape.

Tools You’ll Need

To disassemble your faucet handle, you will need the following tools:

• Adjustable wrench
• Allen wrench (if necessary)
• Screwdriver
• Plumber’s putty (optional)

Step-by-Step Disassembly Instructions

Single-Handle Faucets

1. Turn off the water supply: Locate the water supply valves beneath the sink and turn them off clockwise.
2. Remove the aerator: The aerator is the small screen at the tip of the spout. Use an adjustable wrench to unscrew it.
3. Remove the handle screw: Once the aerator is removed, you will see a screw that holds the handle in place. Use an Allen wrench or screwdriver to remove the screw.
4. Pull off the handle: Once the screw is removed, you can pull the handle straight up to remove it.

Two-Handle Faucets

1. Turn off the water supply: Locate the water supply valves beneath the sink and turn them off clockwise.
2. Remove the handle caps: The handle caps are small covers that conceal the screws that hold the handles in place. Use a screwdriver to pry them off.
3. Remove the handle screws: Once the handle caps are removed, you will see the screws that hold the handles in place. Use an Allen wrench or screwdriver to remove the screws.
4. Pull off the handles: Once the screws are removed, you can pull the handles straight up to remove them.

Pull-Out and Pull-Down Faucets

1. Turn off the water supply: Locate the water supply valves beneath the sink and turn them off clockwise.
2. Remove the spout: The spout is the part of the faucet that extends from the base. Use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the spout from the base.
3. Remove the handle: Once the spout is removed, you can remove the handle by following the steps for single-handle or two-handle faucets, depending on the type of faucet you have.

Reassembly Instructions

Once you have disassembled your faucet handle, you can reassemble it by following the steps in reverse order. Be sure to apply plumber’s putty to the base of the faucet handle before you reattach it to ensure a watertight seal.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter any problems while disassembling or reassembling your faucet handle, here are some troubleshooting tips:

• The handle is stuck: If the handle is stuck, try using a penetrating oil to loosen it. Apply the oil to the base of the handle and let it sit for a few minutes before trying to remove it.
• The water is leaking from the base of the handle: If water is leaking from the base of the handle, it is likely due to a worn-out washer or O-ring. You will need to replace the washer or O-ring to stop the leak.
• The handle is loose: If the handle is loose, it is likely due to a loose screw. Tighten the screw to secure the handle.

Wrap-Up: Regaining Faucet Functionality

By following these instructions, you can successfully disassemble and reassemble your faucet handle, restoring your faucet to proper working order. Remember, if you encounter any problems or are unsure about any of the steps, it is always best to consult a professional plumber.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I disassemble and clean my faucet handle?

A: It is recommended to disassemble and clean your faucet handle every 6-12 months, or more frequently if you live in an area with hard water.

Q: Can I use any type of wrench to disassemble my faucet handle?

A: It is best to use an adjustable wrench to disassemble your faucet handle, as it will provide you with the best grip and leverage.

Q: What should I do if I lose a screw while disassembling my faucet handle?

A: If you lose a screw while disassembling your faucet handle, you can purchase a replacement screw at your local hardware store.