Asked on Dec 02, 2018
How do you fix a stiff faucet handle?
by
Blue Hornet
+2
When trying to turn on the hot water faucet handle, it is difficult to turn. How do you make it easier to turn?
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Usually,there is a stem seal just under the cap nut for the valve.
The cap nut may be too tight or the seal worn out.
If it is on a tub,you will need to turn off the main water valve.
If it is on a sink,you can usually turn the water off under the sink.
Remove the handle and the cap nut.
Pull the valve out and check the condition of the seal.
If it is bad,take the whole vavle part with you to a hardware
store and get some replacements.
Might as well change the stem and valve seals,they are cheap.
If the seal is ok,might try a drop of oil at the steam seal and make
sure not to over tighten the cap nut when you put it back together.
Blue Hornet. Try WD 40. Aloha!
I would try two things first -first try little squirt of WD-40 to see if that loosens the handle enough. If not, loosen the screw just a smidge that holds the handle on.
If neither work, then do what Mogie says.
If this has a cartridge, it may need replacement. If it's just an old style with washers, the stem can be replaced as well. Parts should be available at your local building center for this.
Thanks everyone! I’ll try WD40 first and hopefully the issue is resolved.