Easy Fixes for a Faucet That Won't Turn

If there is a problem with the faucet at home, such as needing to twist it open or dealing with leaks, you may need to use a wrench to tighten it. However, if you find that the faucet won't turn at all during the process, what could be the cause? Is there a way to solve this issue? Today, let's talk about some related problems regarding faucets.

First, what should you do if the faucet won't turn?

1. Trying to turn the faucet by hand is unlikely to work. We need to use tools—such as a wrench or pliers—to grip the faucet's screw and then attempt to turn it. If necessary, you could also try tapping it with a hammer; this might help loosen it.

2. Another reason the faucet might be stuck is that it could be rusty. In this case, rust can jam the faucet in place, making it difficult to turn even with tools. So, the first step is to remove any rust. You can use a rust remover spray and apply it evenly over the rusted areas. If there is a lot of rust, feel free to apply more, and wait a bit until it cleans up the rust. Afterward, with the help of tools, it should generally turn freely.

3. If it still won't budge, you may need to use a hacksaw to cut the water pipe; be careful not to cut too deep. Then you can replace it with a new faucet.

4. During the turning process, you can also drip some lubricant, such as kerosene or vinegar, onto the thread area of the faucet. After it has soaked in, try turning it again.

5. Additionally, you can boil a kettle of water and pour it over the connection point of the faucet. This works on the principle of thermal expansion and contraction. After that, try turning it again.

Now, how can you prevent the faucet from rusting?

1. Regularly clean the surface of the faucet. After using the faucet, you can rinse it with clean water. If there are grease stains, using dish soap can help. Additionally, perform regular maintenance on the faucet, like waxing its surface.

2. It's also important to clean the interior of the faucet. Disassemble the valve core and aerator inside to prevent blockages and minimize the risk of rust building up.

In summary, when you find that the faucet doesn't turn, it is often due to rust. There are various methods to resolve this issue, like pouring hot water or applying lubricants and rust removers, followed by using tools to turn it—it should usually come loose in the end.