Update the look of your bathroom by replacing the faucet handles.
One economical way to update the look of your bathroom is to replace the faucet handles. When replacing bathroom sink faucet handles, you must purchase replacements that are the same type as what you currently have on the faucet. Rotary handles rotate farther than lever handles. All faucet manufacturers use a single screw to secure the handle to the faucet. Replacement handles are available at plumbing supply stores and home improvement centers.
Instructions
Rotary Handles
1. Turn off the faucet water supply under the sink. There are two shut-off valves that connect the house water-supply pipes to the faucet supply lines. Turn the handle on each valve clockwise to turn off the water supply.
2. Find the seam on the top of the handle. There is a cap that hides the securing screw. Pry the cap off at the seam with a utility knife.
3. Remove the screw in the center of the faucet handle with a Phillips-head screwdriver. Pull the handle off the faucet.
4. Install the new handle onto the faucet, pressing the handle over the stem or cartridge. Secure the handle with the retaining screw.
5. Push the screw cover cap over the center of the handle until it snaps into place. Turn on the water supply at the valves under the sink.
Lever Handles
6. Turn off the water supply under the bathroom sink. Look for the single set screw that secures the lever handle to the faucet. Most lever handles have the set screw under the curve of the handle. Some models have a cap on the top of the handle (similar to a rotary handle) that you remove to access the screw.
7. Remove the handle securing screw with a Phillips-head screwdriver or Allen wrench, depending on the screw head. Pull the handle off the faucet.
8. Slip the replacement handle over the faucet stem or cartridge and secure it to the faucet with the retaining screw.
9. Go under the sink and turn on the water supply.
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