How to Take the Cap Off a Faucet
Decorative faucet caps are usually the first item to be removed when servicing or replacement of the faucet is necessary. Many modern faucets with clear acrylic handles feature caps that are pressed into place by hand with the letters "C" and "H" on them, identifying which faucet provides cold or hot water. Older faucets may have a cap that screws onto the handle. Whichever type of cap your faucet has, you can take it off with the proper tools in five minutes or less. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Press-on Caps
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1
Inspect the top of the faucet handle to determine which type of cap your faucet has. If the cap is pressed into the handle, you need a firm, thin knife blade, like a jack knife. Lock-jaw pliers are needed to twist off tight screw-on caps.
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2
Place the knife blade where the cap edge meets the handle and apply pressure to maneuver the blade into the seam.
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3
Pry upwards once the blade is in the seam and the cap is released from the handle.
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4
Repeat step 1.
Screw-on Caps
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5
Apply a few turns of electrical tape to the jaws of the lock-jaw pliers. Taping the jaws prevent scratching or marring of the metal finish of the cap ring.
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6
Grip the cap ring with the lock-jaw pliers and turn it counterclockwise to remove.
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7
Lift the cap up from the top of the faucet handle.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Avoid applying excessive pressure on cap rings when pliers are used. Some of the older faucet caps are porcelain and may crack when the ring is removed.
