How to Make a Faucet Spout Swivel Easily

A little maintenance can usually fix a stiff faucet.

Many modern kitchen faucet designs feature faucets that swivel. The swivel action makes it easier to wash the dishes as well as to clean the sink by allowing the water to sweep from one side of the sink to the other. After many uses, the faucet may not swivel easily due to a mineral buildup from hard water or wear and tear of the ball that allows the faucet to swivel. Faucets made by different manufacturers are uniquely designed, but in most cases, the procedure to make your faucet swivel more easily is similar, usually involving cleaning or replacing the swiveling mechanism.

Things You'll Need

• Flat head and Phillips head screwdrivers
• Adjustable wrench
• Calcium and lime remover
• Soft cloths
• Paper towels
• Digital camera (Optional)
• Replacement ball, gaskets or O-rings (Optional)

Instructions

1. Shut the water off under the sink by turning the valve counterclockwise. This step is optional. In general, plumbing repairs should always start by turning off the water.

2. Dismantle the faucet. Unscrew any visible screws on the exterior of the faucet and place them in a small container nearby. If the faucet has no external screws, you will need to unscrew the outer housing of the faucet. Wrap the base of the faucet in a soft cloth to protect it from the teeth of the wrench then turn the faucet bolt or sleeve in a counterclockwise motion.

3. Place a length of paper towels or a soft cloth on the counter and put each section of the faucet on the cloth or towels in the exact order that you removed it. If desired, use a digital camera and take pictures so that you can see how to reassemble the faucet when you are done.

4. Remove the ball that allows the faucet to swivel. After removing the O-rings and other components, you should be able to access and remove the ball.

5. Check the ball for damage or wear. If it appears corroded or damaged, replace it with a new ball from the manufacturer. Replacement balls from most major manufacturers can be purchased at home improvement stores.

6. Inspect the ball for crusty mineral deposits. If the ball is otherwise undamaged, soak it in a small container of calcium and lime remover for the time recommended on the label.

7. Check the gaskets, O-rings and any other components for obvious wear. Clean or replace them as necessary.

8. Reassemble the faucet and turn the water back on. If the faucet does not swivel smoothly, consult your retailer or faucet manufacturer.

References

• HammerZone: Fixing a Dripping Faucet
• Ace Hardware: Repairing Faucets and Valves -- Ball-type Single Lever Faucets
• MSN Real Estate: 10 Must-Do Repairs Before Selling