Repairing a Loose Lever on a Kitchen Faucet
Kitchen faucets typically have either two knobs or a single lever. Single-lever faucets have one handle that controls the flow of both hot and cold water. Faucet levers are an extension of the hot and cold water valves beneath. Levers can become loose over time, with use. To repair your loose kitchen faucet lever, you will need a bit of know how and some basic DIY tools. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
-
-
1
Locate the small metal or plastic tab at the base of your kitchen faucet lever. The tab should be the same color as the lever itself. This tab serves as a cosmetic and protective cover for the set screw that is located just beneath. The tab shields the screw so that water cannot get in and wear it down. The tab also covers what would otherwise be an unsightly detail in some cases.
-
2
Use your screwdriver or Allen wrench to tighten the set screw at the base of your faucet lever. Turn the screw in a clockwise direction until it is completely tightened. Test the faucet lever for tightness. If the lever remains loose, move to step 3.
-
-
3
Use your screwdriver or Allen wrench to remove the set screw at the base of your faucet lever. Turn the screw in a counterclockwise direction to loosen it. Lift the faucet lever away from the valve beneath so that you can access the handle stem. Use Teflon plumbing tape to create a tighter fit between the lever and the handle stem. Wrap the stem at least one time around with tape. Reinstall the lever and test it for tightness. If there is still play in the lever, remove it again, and wrap the stem again. Replace the metal or plastic set screw tab.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If the lever does not tighten with wrapping, the handle stem may be irrevocably stripped or worn. You may have to replace the faucet.
Do not take on plumbing tasks that you cannot handle. Broken pipes and fixtures can result in flooding and serious damage.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Creatas/Getty Images
