How to Stop Creaking Faucet Handles

Two-handle faucets often develop a slight creaking noise that can be more annoying than a dripping spout. The creaking noise is a result of a dry washer on the end of the faucet stem. Two-handle faucets that creak are usually compression faucets that use a stem instead of a cartidge to control the flow of water. Stopping a creaking faucet handle requires removing the handles to access the stem.

Things You'll Need

• Flat-head screwdriver
• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Adjustable wrench
• Replacement washers
• Replacement O-rings
• Petroleum jelly

Instructions

1. Stop the water supply to the faucet at the shut-off valve under the sink. Turn both water line shut-off valve handles clockwise with your hands. Turn on both faucet handles to drain any water left in the line and then turn both handles off.

2. Pry off the center cap on top of each faucet handle with a flat-head screwdriver. Turn the screw in the center of the handle counterclockwise with a Phillips-head screwdriver. Pull the handle straight up to remove it from the faucet.

3. Turn the nut securing the stem to the faucet counterclockwise with an adjustable wrench and remove the nut. Push the handle back over the top of the stem without the securing screw. Turn the handle counterclockwise to loosen the stem from the faucet. Pull the handle off the stem.

4. Remove the stem from the body of the faucet. Inspect the rubber washer on the end of the stem. Often this washer is in good shape, but is very dry. If the washer has cracks, remove the screw securing it to the stem with the Phillips-head screwdriver and replace the washer with a new one.

5. Check the O-rings on the perimeter of the faucet stem. If the O-rings have tears or crack, pull them off and replace with new ones.

6. Apply a light film of petroleum jelly to the washer and the O-rings with your fingertip. Insert the stem back into the faucet and thread it clockwise with your finger. Push the handle back on the top of the stem and turn the handle clockwise to secure the stem. Pull the handle off the stem.

7. Thread the securing nut back over the stem and onto the faucet body. Tighten the nut with the adjustable wrench. Push the handle back over the stem and secure it with the center retaining screw. Push the cap over the top of each faucet handle. Turn on the water supply and operate the handles.

References

• Corner Hardware: How To repair Compression Faucets