Kohler Faucet Leaking from Handle – Causes, Solutions, and Prevention

Are you experiencing a leaky Kohler faucet from the handle? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many households and businesses encounter this problem, and it’s vital to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent water wastage and potential water damage. In this article, we’ll explain the causes of a Kohler faucet leaking from the handle, the solutions to fix it, and prevention tips to avoid future leaks.

Causes of Kohler Faucet Leaking from Handle

The following are some of the most common causes of a Kohler faucet leaking from the handle:

Worn-out O-ring

The O-ring is a small rubber ring that sits around the base of the faucet handle. It helps to create a tight seal to prevent water from leaking out. Over time, the O-ring can wear out or become loose, causing water to seep through and leak from the handle.

Loose Handle Screw

If the screw that attaches the handle to the faucet is loose, water can leak out from the base of the handle. This is because the screw is not tight enough to create a secure seal, allowing water to escape.

Corroded Valve Seat

The valve seat is the part of the faucet that connects the spout and the faucet body. If it becomes corroded, it can cause leaks from the handle. Corrosion can occur due to mineral buildup or regular wear and tear.

Broken Cartridge

The cartridge is a component of the faucet that regulates water flow. If it becomes damaged or worn out, it can cause water to leak from the handle. This is a common issue in older faucets that have been in use for a long time.

Solutions to Fix Kohler Faucet Leaking from Handle

Now that we know the causes of a Kohler faucet leaking from the handle, let’s look at some solutions to fix the problem:

Replace the O-ring

If the O-ring is the cause of the leak, you can replace it by following these steps:

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the handle by unscrewing it.
3. Locate the O-ring around the base of the faucet handle and remove it.
4. Replace the old O-ring with a new one of the same size and shape.
5. Reassemble the faucet by screwing the handle back on.
6. Turn on the water supply and test the faucet for leaks.

Tighten the Handle Screw

If the screw that attaches the handle to the faucet is loose, you can tighten it by following these steps:

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the handle by unscrewing it.
3. Locate the screw that attaches the handle to the faucet and tighten it with a screwdriver.
4. Reassemble the faucet by screwing the handle back on.
5. Turn on the water supply and test the faucet for leaks.

Clean or Replace the Valve Seat

If the valve seat is corroded, you can clean or replace it by following these steps:

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the handle by unscrewing it.
3. Remove the valve seat using a wrench or pliers.
4. Inspect the valve seat for corrosion or damage.
5. If it’s just dirty, clean it with a cloth or brush. If it’s corroded, replace it with a new one.
6. Reassemble the faucet by screwing the handle back on and reinstalling the valve seat.
7. Turn on the water supply and test the faucet for leaks.

Replace the Cartridge

If the cartridge is the cause of the leak, you can replace it by following these steps:

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the handle by unscrewing it.
3. Remove the retaining clip and pull out the cartridge.
4. Inspect the cartridge for damage or wear.
5. If it’s damaged or worn, replace it with a new one of the same model and size.
6. Reassemble the faucet by inserting the new cartridge, installing the retaining clip, and screwing the handle back on.
7. Turn on the water supply and test the faucet for leaks.

Prevention Tips for Kohler Faucet Leaking from Handle

Here are some prevention tips to avoid a Kohler faucet leaking from the handle:

Regular Maintenance

Performing regular maintenance on your Kohler faucet can help prevent leaks. This includes cleaning the faucet regularly, checking the O-ring, valve seat, and cartridge for wear or damage, and tightening any loose screws or fittings.

Use a Water Softener

Hard water can cause mineral buildup in your faucet, which can lead to corrosion and leaks. Installing a water softener can help reduce the mineral content in your water, preventing mineral buildup in your faucet.

Professional Installation

Having your Kohler faucet installed by a professional plumber can help ensure that it’s installed correctly and that all the components are in good working condition. This can help prevent leaks and other plumbing issues.

Replace Old Faucets

If your Kohler faucet is old and has been in use for a long time, it may be time to replace it. Old faucets are more prone to leaks and other issues, and replacing them can help prevent water wastage and potential water damage.

Conclusion

A Kohler faucet leaking from the handle can be a frustrating and costly problem if not addressed promptly. By understanding the causes of the leak, following the solutions to fix it, and implementing prevention tips, you can prevent water wastage and potential water damage. If you’re not comfortable fixing the problem yourself, it’s always best to consult a professional plumber to ensure that the problem is resolved correctly.