Faucet handle is to hard to turn - Beaty Plumbing 205-688-6588

What to Do if Your Faucet Handle Is Hard to Turn

Have you been asking, “Why is my faucet handle hard to turn?” or “Why is my shower handle hard to turn?” You’re not alone. At Beaty Plumbing, we often address this issue for homeowners throughout Shelby and Chilton Counties. The problem is usually due to mineral buildup or worn parts—thankfully, it’s often an easy fix.

Common Causes of a Stiff or Stuck Faucet Handle

Mineral buildup (limescale)
Corrosion inside the handle
Faulty cartridge
Worn-out gaskets or O-rings

Steps to Fix a Faucet Handle That’s Hard to Turn

Clean off buildup: Use a water and vinegar solution to scrub away limescale around the handle’s exterior, base, and dome.
Use penetrating oil: Apply WD-40 to loosen internal friction, especially in tight crevices.
Use a wrench: Wrap the handle in a cloth and use a wrench gently to loosen any stuck parts.

Removing the Faucet Handle

Shut off the water supply.
Cover the sink drain to avoid losing small parts.
Look for and remove the set screw under the cap or on the side of the handle.
Pull off the handle and clean it thoroughly in vinegar.
Check for damage to O-rings or cartridges—replace if necessary.
Apply oil to moving parts before reassembling the faucet.

Still Stuck? It Might Be Time to Replace

If you’ve tried these tips and your faucet handle is still tight or stuck, the issue might be internal damage. Beaty Plumbing provides full faucet repair and replacement services for homes in Calera and surrounding areas.

📞 Call Beaty Plumbing today at (205) 688-6588 or visit beatyplumbing.com to book your faucet repair service.