Why is my shower handle hard to turn?

Answer by  junkman56 (34)

First shut off the water. Open the valve drain pipe. You need a screw driver to remove cap and take out the screw. With a large socket remove the valve. Take the valve down to your local hardware store and replace rubber washer/gasket. Put the valve back in the faucet and tighten and turn water on to check for leaks.

Answer by  bl834 (1317)

It might be that there is buildup on the threads, which can be fixed at home. If you've noticed water-based deposits (hard water, soap scum, etc) in your shower area the same stuff could be happening inside the handle. Remove the handles and soak in vinegar or use whatever other cleaning stuff is best for your particular buildup.

Answer by  archangelsgirl (93)

Hard water can cause a build up of minerals is causing your shower handle to jam. Take it off and clean with a little CLR to see if that helps.

Answer by  MartinFarmakov (285)

It might be a something rough on the pipe that is connected to the handle. Open the handle and see if the rope that is protecting the leaking is still on. Change it, it might be damaged and it might make troubles in the handle. I think you can do it yourself, if you can't call the plumber.

Answer by  chespa (82)

Your shower handle could have hard water damage. The best way to fix it is to replace the shower hard ware with a shower handle kit from the hardware store.

Answer by  varinder (67)

Some times the bonnet packings on rhe stem swell up and make the stem hard to turn,this might be the most probable reason for the problem of your shower handle.

Answer by  abcturk (4)

It is hard to turn because it is not used so much. You can fix it yourself if you can do some of plumber work. Just open it and then grease it, it will become soft.