How to Replace a Bathroom Faucet Handle

Co-authored by David Balkan

Last Updated: July 29, 2024 References

Sometimes the handle of a bathroom faucet is put on incorrectly so it doesn't rest in the correct position when the faucet is off. Other times the faucet handle may crack, discolor or otherwise look old, while still functioning. In either of these cases, the faucet handle can be replaced with a new one, without replacing the rest of the faucet.

Steps

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Look beneath the sink for a valve close to the wall on the same side as the handle you are replacing. If this is a single handle faucet, turn off both supplies.^{[1]
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Expert Source

David Balkan
Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main

Expert Interview} When you locate them, twist the water supply valve or valves tightly to the right.^{[2]
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Typically faucet handles have a false top or cap. This may be a porcelain cap that reads "hot" or "cold," or it may be a metal cap in the same finish as the rest of the handle.
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There should be a very small hole with an Allen key screw in the back.
The interior valve of the faucet should now be visible.
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If the cap reads "hot", "color" or another word, line this up to face you.

Community Q&A

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Question

What if the handle turns the wrong direction (clockwise)?

Community Answer

It sounds like you have the wrong stem installed. Hot stems generally turn counterclockwise as the threads are made in an inverted manner. As long as there are no leaks this should be OK, but if you want to correct the problem, you will most likely need to replace the stem.

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Question

I put the new handle on and turned the water supply back on, but no water comes out of faucet. What is wrong?

Community Answer

It is not clear what your problem is. If no water comes out of only one faucet, see if you can remove the aerator from the end of the spout. If there is still nothing, there could be another blockage or a bad valve that will not open back up.

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Question

What do I do if it is a single faucet?

Community Answer

Look in your local hardware store for a representative and ask for the single faucet handles and plumbing.

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Tips

Sometimes the handle does not appear to line up properly and sits a little skewed. If this happens, lift the handle straight up, turn it just slightly in the correct direction and press it straight down again. The portion of the valve the handle sits on is grooved to correspond to the handle. Sometimes the grooves can match up incorrectly and a slight turn is all that is needed to line them up right.

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Warnings

Do not loosen the handle from below the sink or counter. This will cause the cartridge or valve to come loose, not the handle itself. Always remove the handle from above the sink or counter.

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