How To Fix A Broken Bathroom Faucet Handle

How to Fix a Broken Bathroom Faucet Handle

A leaky or broken faucet handle can be a major annoyance, but it's usually a fairly easy repair that you can do yourself with a few basic tools. If the handle is simply loose, tightening it should do the trick. If the handle is damaged or the stem is broken, you may need to replace the handle or the entire faucet.

1. Determine the Type of Faucet Handle

There are two main types of faucet handles: compression handles and cartridge handles. Compression handles use a washer to create a seal against the valve seat, while cartridge handles use a cartridge to control the flow of water. To determine which type of handle you have, remove the handle and inspect it.

2. Tighten a Loose Handle

If the handle is loose, you can tighten it using a screwdriver or an Allen wrench. Simply insert the screwdriver or Allen wrench into the set screw on the handle and turn it clockwise. Be careful not to overtighten the screw, as this could damage the handle.

3. Replace a Cartridge Handle

If the cartridge handle is broken, you will need to replace it. First, turn off the water supply to the faucet. Then, remove the handle by pulling it straight up. Next, use a wrench to loosen the retaining nut that holds the cartridge in place. Once the nut is loose, you can pull the cartridge out of the faucet. Finally, insert the new cartridge into the faucet and tighten the retaining nut.

4. Replace a Compression Handle

If the compression handle is broken, you will need to replace it. First, turn off the water supply to the faucet. Then, remove the handle by pulling it straight up. Next, use a wrench to loosen the packing nut that holds the stem in place. Once the nut is loose, you can pull the stem out of the faucet. Finally, insert the new stem into the faucet and tighten the packing nut.

5. Reattach the Handle

Once you have replaced the handle or cartridge, reattach the handle by pushing it down onto the stem. If the handle is a compression handle, you may need to tighten the packing nut to prevent leaks.