1. That may fix it. If it is on a tub,you will need to turn off the main water valve. Faucet handles have screws that can be loosened in order to remove them. Pull the valve out and check the condition of the seal. Remove the handle hub by turning the handle hub (or base) counter clockwise. The faucet’s valve stem will … This time, though, you’re going to want to loosen it. A connected water hose allows the bather to move it to any part of the body. Try soaking your handle in a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and water for 30-60 minutes to see if this helps clear the build-up. Over time due to frequent use, the grip of a Moen kitchen faucet will loosen up which effectively impacts the convenient off and on of the kitchen valve. When the handle is hard to turn it's due to calcium build up rust deposits which over time causes the cartridge to cease making it difficult to turn. If the inside of the pipe seems worn out then you will want to replace the faucet seat (the little item that is exposed when you remove the handle from the wall). If the fixture or nut hasn’t loosened, go to Step 2. Setscrews usually require a hex (or “Allen”) wrench. We have many cartridges and providing your service representative the faucet style name or model number will speed up your call. Once you find the screw, get the appropriate screwdriver (usually a Phillips head or a small Allen wrench) and turn the screw counterclockwise to remove it, as well as the handle. If it is on a sink,you can usually turn the water off under the sink. Find the cap and you've found the set screw. This ultimately results in dripping water which is a significant loss. Step 1 Place a towel or wash cloth over the tub drain to prevent the set screw from accidentally dropping down the drain. View all possible matching faucets to find your specific model. To remove your old shower head, first try by hand (see Step 1). I recently replaced the pivot rod in my bathroom sink drain. Pull the handle off the stem. My faucet handle literally went from a little too loose to very tight overnight. Age 2. Sue June 2004 … Most shower heads simply screw onto the threaded end of the shower pipe. Step Five: Correct Any Leaks. I recently purchased a house built in 1990. How to Loosen a Tight Shower Handle | Hunker Hot www.hunker.com. If so, you will want to replace these to stop any leaks. Removing the shower head is really as easy as unscrewing this connection! Then coat the tip with valve grinding compound and jam it into the Phillips screw head. If you have trouble locating the screw, you're not alone. Put a wrench on the fixture or nut and strike the handle sharply with a hammer to loosen the fixture. Your faucet’s design may vary, which is why it’s recommended to have Phillips and flat screwdrivers as well as an Allen wrench so that you can work with any type of screw. Screws: How to Loosen a Stuck Phillips Screw. Pull the valve out and check the condition of the seal. I can't find a point of access to a bolt or a nut. Pour straight vinegar in bowl until handles are completely submerged, and allow them to soak overnight. Step 2 Remove the rubber or plastic plug covering the screw on the underside of the handle. Removing the shower head is really as easy as unscrewing this connection! Unfortunately, our faucets aren’t invincible. Handles are Stiff Or Difficult to Operate. ®2007-2020 Water Pik, Inc. all rights reserved. The handle won't come off on its own; you first have to loosen the set screw holding it to the valve stem. The measurement is 8 inch spread. Locate the button cap on top of the tight faucet handle. 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