How to Remove an American Standard Faucet Handle (Step-by-Step Guide)

AvatarByLiana Farrell Faucet Queries

How to Remove an American Standard Faucet Handle

Your American Standard faucet is leaking, and you’re ready to take action. But before you can start fixing the leak, you need to remove the faucet handle. This may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple. With a few tools and a little know-how, you can have the handle off in no time.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of removing an American Standard faucet handle. We’ll provide detailed instructions and images to help you along the way. So if you’re ready to get started, read on!

Step Instructions Image
1 Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2 Locate the setscrews that hold the handle in place.
3 Use a screwdriver to loosen the setscrews.
4 Remove the handle by pulling it straight off.

Tools and Materials Needed

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Penetrating oil
  • Rags

Steps to Remove the Handle

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Locate the setscrews that hold the handle in place. They are usually located on the underside of the handle, near the base.
3. Use a flathead screwdriver to loosen the setscrews.
4. Apply penetrating oil to the threads of the handle. Allow the oil to soak in for a few minutes.
5. Use an adjustable wrench to turn the handle counterclockwise.
6. Be careful not to damage the threads of the handle.
7. Once the handle is loose, remove it from the faucet.
8. Clean the threads of the faucet with a rag.
9. Reinstall the handle by turning it clockwise until it is snug against the faucet.
10. Tighten the setscrews to secure the handle in place.

Removing an American Standard faucet handle is a simple process that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can easily remove the handle and replace it with a new one.

How To Remove American Standard Faucet Handle?

American Standard faucets are a popular choice for homes and businesses alike. They are known for their durability and stylish design. However, even the best faucets can eventually start to show wear and tear. If your American Standard faucet is leaking or the handles are loose, you may need to remove the handles to fix the problem.

This guide will show you how to remove American Standard faucet handles. It is important to note that this guide is for single-handle faucets only. If you have a two-handle faucet, the process will be slightly different.

Tools Needed

To remove an American Standard faucet handle, you will need the following tools:

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Penetrating oil
  • Rag

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

The first step is to turn off the water supply to the faucet. This will prevent any water from spilling out when you remove the handles. To do this, find the shut-off valve for the faucet and turn it clockwise until it is completely closed.

Step 2: Apply Penetrating Oil

The next step is to apply penetrating oil to the setscrews that hold the handles in place. This will help to loosen the screws and make them easier to remove. Let the penetrating oil sit for a few minutes before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Loosen the Setscrews

Once the penetrating oil has had time to work, you can use the adjustable wrench to loosen the setscrews that hold the handles in place. Be careful not to overtighten the screws, as this could damage the faucet.

Step 4: Remove the Handles

Once the setscrews are loosened, you can remove the handles from the faucet. To do this, simply pull the handles straight off. Be careful not to drop the handles, as they can be easily damaged.

Step 5: Clean the Faucet

Once the handles are removed, you can clean the faucet. To do this, use a rag to wipe down the faucet and remove any dirt or debris. You can also use a degreaser to clean the faucet if necessary.

Step 6: Reinstall the Handles

To reinstall the handles, simply reverse the steps you took to remove them. First, apply a small amount of plumber’s grease to the threads of the handles. This will help to create a seal and prevent leaks. Then, align the handles with the faucet and screw them back in place. Be careful not to overtighten the screws, as this could damage the faucet.

Removing American Standard faucet handles is a relatively simple task. By following these steps, you can easily remove the handles and clean or repair the faucet.

How do I remove an American Standard faucet handle?

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet. This can usually be done by turning a shut-off valve located under the sink.
2. Remove the decorative cap. This cap is typically located at the base of the faucet handle and is held in place by a small screw. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screw and carefully pry off the cap.
3. Locate the set screw. The set screw is a small, Phillips head screw that secures the faucet handle to the faucet body. It is typically located on the underside of the handle.
4. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to loosen the set screw. Be careful not to turn the screw too far, as you could damage the faucet.
5. Pull the faucet handle straight up. The handle should come off easily.
6. Replace the faucet handle by reversing the steps above.

What if the set screw is stripped?

If the set screw is stripped, you can try to remove it with a pair of pliers. If that doesn’t work, you can try to drill out the screw. Be careful not to damage the faucet body.

What if the faucet handle is stuck?

If the faucet handle is stuck, you can try to loosen it by applying some penetrating oil to the threads. You can also try to heat the handle with a hair dryer or heat gun. Be careful not to overheat the handle, as you could damage it.

What if I can’t find the set screw?

Some American Standard faucets do not have a set screw. In these cases, the faucet handle is held in place by a clip. To remove the handle, you will need to pry it off with a flathead screwdriver. Be careful not to damage the handle.

What if I still can’t remove the faucet handle?

If you are unable to remove the faucet handle yourself, you can contact a qualified plumber for assistance.

In this article, we have discussed how to remove an American Standard faucet handle. We have covered the steps involved in the process, as well as some tips and tricks to make it easier. We hope that this information has been helpful, and that you are now able to remove your American Standard faucet handle with ease.

Here are some key takeaways from the article:

  • To remove an American Standard faucet handle, you will need a flathead screwdriver and a hex wrench.
  • The first step is to turn off the water supply to the faucet.
  • Next, use the flathead screwdriver to pry off the decorative cap on the handle.
  • Once the cap is removed, you will see a hex screw underneath. Use the hex wrench to loosen the screw and remove the handle.
  • Repeat these steps for the other handle, if necessary.
  • Once the handles are removed, you can clean the faucet and replace the old washers and O-rings, if necessary.
  • Finally, turn the water supply back on and test the faucet to make sure it is working properly.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.