If your faucet handle is squeaking, it’s time to take action and fix the problem. The annoying sound of a squeaky faucet handle can be frustrating. Sometimes these sounds can be caused by a loose screw or a build-up of dirt and grime. Whatever the cause, there are a few simple steps you can take to fix a squeaky faucet handle.
Summary: Fixing a squeaky faucet handle is an easy task that requires only a few simple steps. First, use a screwdriver or hex key to remove the screw from the handle of the faucet. Then, replace any worn out washers or O-rings with new ones and reattach the screws. Finally, open and close the faucet several times to make sure it works properly.
What Makes a Squeaky Faucet Handle?
The problem with a squeaky faucet handle is often twofold. First, there may be mineral deposits buildup inside the valve seat, causing interference when you turn the water on and off. Secondly, the O-ring that seals the valve may have become old and brittle and needs to be replaced. The other reasons may be a loose valve handle, a damaged valve stem, or a faulty washer.
The good news is that most of these problems are relatively easy to fix without having to call in a professional. With a few simple tools, you should be able to fix your squeaky faucet handle in no time.
9 Effective Steps on How to Fix Squeaky Faucet Handle
Follow these easy steps on How to Fix Squeaky Faucet Handle:
Step 1: Check the Water Pressure
If the water pressure is too high, it can cause the faucet handle to squeak when you turn it on or off. To check the water pressure, you will need a water pressure gauge. These are available at most hardware stores. Attach the gauge to an outside faucet and turn it on. The pressure should be between 40 and 60 psi. If it is higher than that, you will need to adjust the pressure regulator.
Step 2: Clean the Faucet Handle
If the faucet handle is dirty, it can cause a squeaking sound. To clean it, you will need a soft cloth and some mild soap. Gently wipe down the handle, being careful not to damage it. If the handle is very dirty, you may need to use a toothbrush to reach all of the dirt and grime.
Step 3: Tighten the Set Screws
If the set screws on the faucet handle are loose, they can cause the handle to squeak. To tighten the set screws, you will need a Phillips head screwdriver. Tighten the screws until snug, but be careful not to overtighten them.
Step 4: Lubricate the Faucet Handle
If the faucet handle is dry, it can cause it to squeak when you turn it. To lubricate the handle, you will need a silicone-based lubricant. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the handle and spread it evenly. Be sure to avoid getting any lubricant on the finish of the faucet.
Step 5: Adjust the Water Temperature
If the water temperature is too hot or too cold, it can cause the faucet handle to squeak. To adjust the water temperature, you will need a Phillips head screwdriver. Locate the set screws on the front of the handle and turn them clockwise to increase the temperature or counterclockwise to decrease it.
Step 6: Clean the Faucet Cartridge
If you find the source of the squeak, it may be that the faucet cartridge is dirty. You can clean it with white vinegar and a toothbrush. First, soak the cartridge in vinegar for a few hours, then brush it clean with the toothbrush. If this doesn’t work, you may need to replace the cartridge. Some people use a little WD-40 or another lubricant on the O-rings to stop the squeak, but this is not recommended as it can damage the finish on your faucet.
Step 7: Replace the O-Rings
There can be several reasons for a faucet handle to squeak, but one of the most common is worn-out O-rings. These small rubber rings are located under the handle and help to create a watertight seal. Over time, they can become brittle and cracked, which can cause the handle to squeak when you turn it on or off.
To fix this, simply remove the handle and look at the O-rings. If they are damaged, you will need to replace them with new ones. This is a relatively easy task that you can do yourself without having to call a plumber.
Step 8: Check the Washers
If the O-rings are not the problem, then it is likely that the washers are to blame. These small rubber discs are located under the faucet handle and help to create a watertight seal. Over time, they can become brittle and cracked, which can cause the handle to squeak when you turn it on or off.
Step 9: Check the Faucet Base
If all these solutions don’t work, then it means that the problem is with the faucet base. To fix a squeaky faucet handle, you will need to remove the handle and unscrew the faucet base. Once you have removed the faucet base, clean it with a vinegar solution. After cleaning the faucet base, you can then screw it back on.
If you have a single-handle faucet, you will need to remove the escutcheon plate to access the faucet base. The escutcheon plate is located under the handle. To remove the escutcheon plate, you will need to use a screwdriver. Once you have removed the escutcheon plate, you can unscrew the faucet base.
If you have tried all these solutions and the problem persists, it is time to call a plumber. A plumber will be able to diagnose the problem and fix it for you.
What is the Best Method to Fix Squeaky Faucet Handle?
If your faucet handle is driving you crazy with its constant squeaking, there are a few different methods you can try to fix it.
The most common reason for a squeaky faucet handle is loose screws. Over time, the screws that hold the handle in place can loosen and cause the handle to become loose and squeaky. The first thing you should do is check to see if the screws are loose. If they are, simply tighten them with a screwdriver.
If the screws are not loose, the next step is to lubricate the handle. You can use a variety of lubricants for this, such as WD-40 or silicone spray. Simply spray the lubricant onto the handle and move it back and forth to work it into the moving parts. This should silence the squeak.
If neither of these methods works, you may need to replace the faucet handle. This is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed in a few minutes with a screwdriver.
Once you have fixed the squeaky faucet handle, be sure to check the screws periodically to make sure they remain tight. This will help prevent the problem from happening again in the future.
Safety Tips to Fix Squeaky Faucet Handle
- Be sure to wear gloves when working with any lubricant, as some can be quite messy.
- You need to locate the source of the squeak. Because this is usually where the handle meets the metal faucet body, in some cases, it may also be where the escutcheon plate covers the base of the faucet.
- Never try to force the handle off of the faucet. You could damage both the handle and the faucet itself. Instead, use a wrench or pliers to loosen any bolts or screws holding it in place gently.
- Do not use petroleum-based lubricants, as they can damage the finish on your faucet. Instead, use a silicone-based lubricant or a non-petroleum-based oil.
- Apply the lubricant to the squeaky area, and then use a cloth or paper towel to wipe away any excess.
- Be sure to re-tighten any bolts or screws you loosened earlier. Do not overtighten, as this can also damage the faucet.
- Test the handle to see if the squeak is gone. If it is not, repeat steps 4 through 6 until the squeak is gone.
- If the squeak persists, it may be time to replace the faucet handle. Be sure to turn off the water supply before removing the old handle.
- Take the old handle to a hardware store so that you can find an exact replacement. Be sure to match the finish and style as closely as possible.
If the squeak persists, you may need to call a professional plumber for assistance.
Conclusion
If you’ve tried the methods mentioned in this blog post and your faucet handle is still squeaking, it’s time to call a professional. Faucet repair can be tricky, so it’s best to leave it to the experts.
We hope our steps on how to fix squeaky faucet handle have helped you solve this common household problem yourself. Have any questions? Leave them in the comments below!