How to Remove a Tight Bathroom Faucet
If you want to repair your bathroom faucet, you have to remove the handle and cartridge. Unfortunately, sediment buildup sometimes causes faucet parts to stick together, forming an actual bond you must break before removing the parts. This bond is not impossible to break; you just need the right tools, some elbow grease and the correct techniques to remove and quickly repair sticky bathroom faucets. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Allen wrench
- Sediment-dissolving cleaner
- Screwdriver
- Large channel pliers
- Cartridge removal tool
- Crowbar
Instructions
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1
Turn off the water to the faucet. Simply close the water valves in the bathroom sink.
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2
Loosen and remove the handle set screw with an Allen wrench. If this part is stuck, spray on Lime Away, CLR or another sediment-dissolving cleaner to loosen the screw, then attempt removal.
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3
Pry off the handle to the faucet, pulling it up and away from the base. Again, spray the handle with a sediment-dissolving cleaner to help loosen it. If necessary, pry up the handle from one side with a screwdriver.
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4
Remove the cartridge retaining nut or clip, according to your faucet, with a pair of pliers. A large plumber's wrench will remove most stuck retaining clips. Use light pressure at first to avoid stripping the nut.
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Remove the cartridge. Simply screw the cartridge removal tool onto the end of the stem and pull the cartridge backwards. Each faucet brand has its own cartridge removal tool. Select yours based on the faucet brand.
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Spray the spout area with sediment-dissolving cleaner and allow it to soak in. Loosen the washer nut under the sink with your wrench. In most cases, sediment will not affect this part. Unscrew the connectors to disconnect both the hot and cold water hoses. To get the faucet spout removed, pry it up off the base of the faucet with a flat crowbar or large pliers.
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References
Resources
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