How to Fix a Broken Plastic Water Valve Handle
- 1). Turn off the water supply to the valve either at a local shutoff near the spigot you are repairing or at the shutoff valve where the main water line enters the building.
- 2). Drain any remaining water out of the line by opening the water valve completely and letting the excess water run out. If the spigot is in an area that should not get wet, place a bucket underneath to catch the water.
- 3). Inspect the water valve handle. Some models will have a small screw in the center of the handle called a set screw. If one is present, remove it before continuing. Use an appropriately sized screwdriver and turn the screw to the left to loosen and remove.
- 4). Loosen the large nut that sits between the spout and the water pipe. Use an adjustable wrench and turn the nut to the left until it will no longer turn. Pull the handle assembly straight out and discard.
- 5). Insert the new handle and secure it in place by tightening the packing nut with the adjustable wrench. Do not over tighten. If the new handle comes with a set screw, insert and tighten it.
- 6). Turn the handle all the way to the right to close, and turn on the water at the shutoff valve.
