How To Remove Stuck Bathroom Taps

How to Remove Stuck Bathroom Taps

A stuck bathroom tap can be a major inconvenience. Not only can it prevent you from using your sink, but it can also lead to leaks and water damage. If you're dealing with a stuck tap, there are a few things you can do to try to fix it yourself.

First, try to determine what is causing the tap to stick. Is it the handle, the cartridge, or the aerator? Once you know the cause, you can start to troubleshoot the problem.

Removing a Stuck Handle

If the handle is stuck, it is likely due to mineral buildup or corrosion. To remove the handle, you will need to:

Turn off the water supply to the tap.
Remove the aerator from the tap spout.
Loosen the setscrew on the handle.
Pull the handle off of the tap.
Clean the handle and the tap body with a vinegar solution.
Reassemble the tap.

Replacing a Stuck Cartridge

If the cartridge is stuck, you will need to replace it. To replace the cartridge, you will need to:

Turn off the water supply to the tap.
Remove the handle from the tap.
Unscrew the retaining nut that holds the cartridge in place.
Pull the cartridge out of the tap body.
Insert a new cartridge into the tap body.
Tighten the retaining nut.
Reassemble the tap.

Removing a Stuck Aerator

If the aerator is stuck, you can try to remove it with a pair of pliers. If that doesn't work, you can try soaking the aerator in vinegar for a few hours. Once the aerator is loose, you can unscrew it by hand.

Preventing Stuck Taps

The best way to prevent stuck taps is to maintain them regularly. This includes cleaning the tap body and handle with a vinegar solution and lubricating the moving parts with a silicone-based lubricant. You should also replace the aerator every few months to prevent mineral buildup.

If you are unable to remove a stuck tap yourself, you should call a plumber. A plumber will be able to quickly and easily fix the problem and prevent further damage.