Are you struggling with a kitchen faucet handle that turns all the way around? Don’t worry, it’s a common household problem and it can happen with all faucet handles over time.
Luckily, fixing a faucet handle that turns all around is a quick and easy job that anyone can fix with a few simple tools and some basic knowledge.
In this article, we will walk you through step by step guide on how to fix a kitchen faucet handle that turns all the way around.
Understand The Cause Of The Problem
It’s important to understand the cause of the problem to fix the kitchen faucet handle that turns all the way around.
Typically the problem occurs when the handle screw becomes loose or the cartridge inside the faucet gets damaged or when the faucet handle gets damaged.
Tools Required
- Towel
- Allen Wrench
- Philips head screwdriver
- Pipe wrench or Adjustable wrench
- New Cartridge (if needed)
- New faucet handle (if needed)
- Silicone-based lubricant
How To Fix A Kitchen Faucet Handle That Turns All The Way Around?
Step 1: Turn Off The Water Supply
Before starting the work the first thing you should do is Turn off the water supply valve to avoid flooding in the kitchen while repairing the faucet.
The shut-off valves are located under the kitchen sink. There will be two shutoff valves– one for cold water and the other for hot water.
Turn both the valves in a clockwise direction to turn off the water supply. In case there are no shut-off valves under the kitchen sink, turn off the main water supply of the house.
Step 2: Cover The Sink Drain
Cover the sink drain with a drain stopper or towel. This will help to avoid losing any small parts or screws while working on the faucet.
Step 3: Remove The Faucet Handle
First, find the screw that holds the faucet handle in place. The screw is normally located at the top of the handle or at the side of the handle.
If there is an index button at the top of the handle, remove it with the help of a flathead screwdriver.
After removing the index button you will get access to the screw. Take out the screw with the help of a Philips screwdriver.
If there is a decorative cap at the side of the handle, you will see a set screw behind it. Take out the set screw with the help of an Allen wrench.
After removing the screw, you should be able to lift the faucet handle. If it is difficult to remove the handle, gently wiggle it back and forth while pulling upward.
Be careful not to apply too much force or else the cartridge will get damaged.
Step 4: Inspect The Faucet Handle
Now, examine the condition of the faucet handle and see if there’s any crack, chip, or damage in the faucet handle. If the handle is damaged then replacing it is the only solution.
To get the exact replacement take the handle with you to the hardware store. If the faucet handle appears to be in good condition then move on to the next step.
Step 5: Tighten The Handle Screw
Now, we are sure that the faucet handle is not responsible so you can now check the handle screw.
Inspect the screw to see if it is loose or not. If the screw is loose then tighten it with the help of a screwdriver or Allen wrench.
Before tightening the screw make sure any debris or mineral deposit has not accumulated around the screw. Or else you won’t be able to tighten the screw securely.
To tighten the screw, turn it in a clockwise direction using a screwdriver or Allen wrench. Be careful not to over-tighten it because the faucet handle can get damaged.
Due to over-tightening, the kitchen faucet handle will become hard to turn.
Once you have tightened the screw, check if the handle still turns too far.
Step 6: Replace The Cartridge
After tightening the screw if the handle still turns all the way around, the cartridge might be a reason. The cartridge is a valve that controls the water flow in a faucet.
Over time it can get damaged or worn out due to regular use.
Therefore, replacing the cartridge will solve the problem. You can get the exact replacement from the hardware store or online from Home Depot.
But make sure to take the cartridge with you to the hardware store to get the exact model.
To replace the cartridge you have to first remove the faucet’s handle. Then, you may see a locking nut that holds the cartridge in place.
The locking nut is a brass screw that sits on the top of the cartridge. Remove it with the help of a pipe wrench or adjustable wrench.
Now, pull out the cartridge from the faucet. If it is stuck then it may require some wiggling and twisting to get the cartridge loose.
Step 7: Lubricate The Cartridge
Now, install the new cartridge but make sure to lubricate it with plumber’s grease. Lubricating will help the cartridge to move smoothly and prevent any potential damage in the future.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to apply the grease on the cartridge. Be careful not to apply too much grease because it can attract dirt and other debris.
For lubrication, you can use Danco Silicone Grease. It is an ideal product for lubricating cartridges, stems, and valves.
The Danco Silicone Grease provides a long-lasting lubricant and helps to reduce friction.
The sealant grease is made of high raw silicone content which makes it better for long-term lubricant hold.
The grease can be applied safely on cartridges because it is designed to be used as a waterproof lubricant.
Once the cartridge is lubricated properly, insert it into the faucet.
Be sure the new cartridge is installed in the same way the old cartridge was installed or else the faucet handle will turn in the wrong direction
At last, screw on the retaining nut and tighten it with an adjustable wrench.
Step 8: Reassemble The Faucet Handle
Now, put back the faucet handle where it belongs to. Then, tight the screw with Philip’s head screwdriver and if there’s a set screw then use an Allen wrench for tightening.
Reattach the decorative cap or index button back to the faucet handle. Now, turn on the water supply and check the faucet handle.
Step 9: Check The Faucet Handle
After completing all the steps, test the faucet handle to ensure it’s working properly.
First, turn the faucet handle slowly to see if it turns all the way around. If it does, then double-check the handle’s installation. Make sure it’s tight and secure.
Also, check if any leak is there or not.