How to Replace an Outside Faucet Handle in 5 Easy Steps

AvatarByLiana Farrell Faucet Queries

How to Replace an Outside Faucet Handle

Your outdoor faucet is a critical part of your home, providing water for everything from washing the car to watering the lawn. But if the faucet handle breaks, you may be left without a way to get the job done. Luckily, replacing an outside faucet handle is a relatively simple task that you can do yourself with a few basic tools.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of replacing an outside faucet handle, from start to finish. We’ll cover everything you need to know, including:

  • How to identify the type of faucet you have
  • How to shut off the water supply
  • How to remove the old handle
  • How to install the new handle

By the end of this article, you’ll be able to replace an outside faucet handle like a pro. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!

Step Tools Instructions
1 Pliers Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2 Screwdriver Remove the screws that hold the old handle in place.
3 Pliers Pull the old handle off of the faucet.
4 New handle Place the new handle on the faucet and tighten the screws.
5 Pliers Turn on the water supply to the faucet.

Tools and Materials Needed

To replace an outside faucet handle, you will need the following tools and materials:

  • A screwdriver
  • A wrench
  • A pair of pliers
  • A new faucet handle
  • Plumbing tape
  • Pipe sealant

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet. This is usually located at the back of the faucet, near the base.
2. Remove the old faucet handle by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place.
3. Disconnect the water supply lines from the faucet. There will be one line for hot water and one line for cold water.
4. Remove the old faucet stem by unscrewing it from the faucet body.
5. Apply a small amount of plumber’s tape to the threads of the new faucet stem.
6. Insert the new faucet stem into the faucet body and tighten it until it is snug.
7. Connect the water supply lines to the faucet.
8. Reattach the faucet handle by screwing it onto the faucet body.
9. Turn on the water supply to the faucet and check for leaks.

Replacing an outside faucet handle is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can easily get your faucet back in working order.

3. Troubleshooting

If you’re having trouble replacing your outside faucet handle, here are a few things to check:

  • Make sure you have the right tools. You’ll need a screwdriver, a wrench, and a pair of pliers.
  • Turn off the water supply to the faucet. This is usually located at the back of the house, near the water meter.
  • Remove the old handle. There will be two screws holding the handle in place. Use a screwdriver to loosen these screws and remove the handle.
  • Install the new handle. The new handle will come with instructions. Follow these instructions carefully to install the new handle correctly.
  • Turn on the water supply to the faucet. Test the faucet to make sure it’s working properly.

If you’re still having trouble, you may need to call a plumber.

4. Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you replace your outside faucet handle:

  • Use a lubricant on the threads of the new handle. This will make it easier to screw the handle into place.
  • Don’t overtighten the screws. Overtightening the screws can damage the handle.
  • Test the faucet before you put it back in place. This will ensure that the handle is working properly.
  • If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, call a plumber. A plumber can help you replace the handle quickly and easily.

Replacing an outside faucet handle is a relatively simple task. By following these steps, you can easily replace your old handle with a new one. If you’re having trouble, don’t hesitate to call a plumber.

How do I know if my faucet handle needs to be replaced?

There are a few signs that your faucet handle may need to be replaced. These include:

  • The handle is loose or wobbly.
  • The handle is difficult to turn.
  • The handle is leaking.
  • The handle is damaged.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to have your faucet handle replaced as soon as possible.

What tools do I need to replace a faucet handle?

You will need the following tools to replace a faucet handle:

  • A screwdriver
  • A wrench
  • A pair of pliers
  • A new faucet handle

How do I remove the old faucet handle?

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Locate the screws that hold the faucet handle in place.
3. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws.
4. Use a wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the faucet handle in place.
5. Use a pair of pliers to pry the faucet handle off of the faucet.

How do I install the new faucet handle?

1. Apply a thin coat of plumber’s grease to the threads of the new faucet handle.
2. Insert the new faucet handle onto the faucet.
3. Use a wrench to tighten the nuts that hold the faucet handle in place.
4. Use a screwdriver to tighten the screws that hold the faucet handle in place.
5. Turn on the water supply to the faucet.

What if I can’t find the right size replacement faucet handle?

If you can’t find the right size replacement faucet handle, you can either order a custom-made handle or have a plumber install a new faucet.

How much does it cost to replace a faucet handle?

The cost of replacing a faucet handle varies depending on the type of faucet and the cost of the replacement handle. The average cost of replacing a faucet handle is between $10 and $50.

How long does it take to replace a faucet handle?

Replacing a faucet handle can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the type of faucet and the skill of the person doing the replacement.

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

Here are some key takeaways from the article:

  • Before you begin, make sure you have the necessary tools and materials.
  • Turn off the water supply to the faucet before you start work.
  • Remove the old handle by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place.
  • Clean the threads on the faucet body before installing the new handle.
  • Apply a small amount of plumber’s grease to the threads of the new handle.
  • Screw the new handle into place until it is snug.
  • Turn on the water supply to the faucet and test the new handle.

We hope that this article has been helpful. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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.