Why Spray WD40 Up Your Faucet? – Step-By-Step Guide

Faucets play an essential role in our daily lives, providing access to clean water for cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene. However, like all things, faucets can encounter problems over time. You may have experienced a dripping faucet that keeps you up at night or a stiff handle that requires more effort than it should. These issues are annoying, leading to water wastage and increased utility bills.
So, why consider spraying WD-40 up your faucet? WD-40 isn’t just a solution for squeaky doors and rusted bike chains; it can also be a handy tool in your faucet maintenance kit.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the world of faucet maintenance, understanding the common problems faucets face and how WD-40 can be your ally in keeping them in tip-top shape. We’ll provide a step-by-step guide, tips for effective maintenance, and even eco-friendly alternatives if you prefer a greener approach.

As we delve into ‘Why Spray WD-40 Up Your Faucet?’ for indoor plumbing maintenance, it’s worth noting that similar techniques, like knowing ‘How To Loosen An Outside Water Faucet?‘ can be applied to ensure the smooth operation of all your water fixtures, whether indoors or outdoors.”

Faucets are essential fixtures in our homes and workplaces, providing us access to running water for various tasks. However, faucets can develop problems over time, like any mechanical device, due to wear and tear, mineral buildup, or other factors. Understanding these common faucet problems is crucial for effective maintenance and timely repairs. Here are some of the most prevalent issues you may encounter with your faucets:

1. Dripping Faucets: A dripping faucet is not just an annoyance; it can also lead to water wastage and higher utility bills. This problem often occurs due to worn-out or damaged internal components, such as O-rings or washers, that no longer create a tight seal.
2. Stiff or Hard-to-Operate Handles: When you struggle to turn the faucet handles, it can be caused by mineral deposits or corrosion inside the faucet assembly. Stiff handles can make it challenging to adjust water flow or temperature.
3. Rust and Corrosion: Faucets are exposed to water daily, and corrosion can occur if they’re made of materials susceptible to rust. Rust affects the faucet’s appearance and can compromise its functionality over time.
4. Mineral Deposits: In areas with hard water, mineral deposits, primarily calcium and magnesium, can accumulate inside the faucet and on the aerator. These deposits can restrict water flow and affect water pressure. Also, learn how to effortlessly replace a kitchen faucet with a sprayer in our comprehensive guide here.

Spraying WD-40 up your faucet might sound unusual, but it can be a surprisingly effective solution for several common faucet problems. Here’s why you might consider using WD-40 for faucet maintenance:

1. Stiff or Hard-to-Turn Handles: Over time, your faucet’s handles can become stiff or difficult to turn. This is often due to mineral deposits, rust, or corrosion inside the faucet assembly. WD-40’s lubricating properties can help loosen these components, making it easier to operate the faucet handles smoothly.
2. Mineral Deposits: In areas with hard water, mineral deposits like calcium and magnesium can build up inside your faucet. These deposits can block water flow and affect water pressure. WD-40 can help dissolve and dislodge these mineral deposits, restoring your faucet’s performance.
3. Rust and Corrosion Prevention: WD-40 is known for preventing rust and corrosion. By applying it to your faucet’s metal components, you create a protective barrier that can extend the lifespan of your faucet and maintain its appearance.
4. Silencing Squeaky Faucets: WD-40 can help eliminate those annoying noises if you have a squeaky faucet. A quick spray on the right components can silence the squeak and provide a more peaceful water experience.
5. Versatility: WD-40 is a versatile household tool commonly used for various maintenance tasks. Having it on hand for faucet maintenance means you can address multiple household issues with a single product.

While WD-40 can be a handy solution, it’s essential to use it correctly and ensure you wipe off any excess to prevent water supply contamination. Regular faucet maintenance, whether with WD-40 or other methods, ensures your plumbing fixtures work smoothly, prolongs their lifespan and saves money on potential repairs or replacements.

Maintaining your faucet with WD-40 is a simple and effective way to address common issues and prevent future problems. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you use WD-40 for faucet maintenance:

Tools and Materials Needed

1. WD-40: Purchase a can of WD-40 readily available at most hardware stores.
2. Adjustable Wrench: If necessary, you may need this to remove the faucet aerator or handle.
3. Cloth or Rag: Use a clean cloth or rag to wipe down the faucet and remove any excess WD-40.
4. Bucket: To catch any dripping water and prevent mess.

Preparation Steps

1. Turn Off Water Supply: Before you begin, shut off the water supply to the faucet. This is typically done by turning the water valves under the sink clockwise. If you cannot locate these valves, consider turning off the main water supply to your home.
2. Clear the Sink Area: Remove any items from the sink and place a bucket underneath the faucet to catch any water that may drip.

Applying WD-40 to Different Faucet Components

1. Spray WD-40 on the Aerator: The aerator is the small, mesh-like attachment at the end of the faucet spout. It’s prone to clogging due to mineral deposits. Spray WD-40 directly onto the aerator and allow it to sit for a few minutes. Afterward, use a pair of pliers or an adjustable wrench to remove the aerator, clean it, and reinstall it.
2. Apply WD-40 to Stiff Handles or Valves: If your faucet handles are stiff or difficult to turn, spray WD-40 on the valve stems and any moving parts. Allow the WD-40 to penetrate for a few minutes. Then, turn the handles to distribute the lubricant evenly.
3. Treat Other Faucet Components: If your faucet has other problematic parts, like a swivel spout, spray WD-40 on those areas. The goal is to lubricate and eliminate any resistance.

Proper Cleaning and Wiping

1. Wipe Down the Faucet: After applying WD-40 to the necessary components, use a clean cloth or rag to wipe down the entire faucet. This not only removes excess WD-40 but also helps clean the faucet’s exterior and gives it a polished appearance.
2. Turn On the Water Supply: Once you’ve completed the steps and are satisfied with the lubrication, turn the water supply back on. Check the faucet for any leaks or drips. If you notice any issues, address them promptly.

Following this step-by-step guide, you can effectively use WD-40 to maintain your faucet, addressing common problems like stiffness, mineral buildup, and more. Regular faucet maintenance can extend the lifespan of your plumbing fixtures and ensure they continue to function smoothly.

To learn how to effectively clean a pull-down kitchen faucet spray head, check out our detailed guide here.

Along with specific tools, WD-40 spray is known for its effectiveness during repair tasks. These sprays are formulated with chemicals that help cut grease, lubricate, and loosen up the rust from the surface.

This spray comes in distinct size containers and with various spray types. For instance, EZ-Reach WD-40 sprays come with a long, flexible nozzle. It helps in reaching hard-to-reach areas. You can use it in the faucet nozzle to loosen up the hard water deposit. You can guide this nozzle and shape it however you want.

WD-40 Smart straw comes with a straw that can work in two ways. You can either create a stream or spray as per your need.

You can use a big blast container and a wide-mouth sprayer for vast areas. Its spray covers a bigger circumference. These are usually a choice of big vehicle owners who want to keep their vehicles neat and clean. Its waterproof quality makes the surface look brand new.

For industrial areas, they offer mighty cans to meet the needs of their customers. Similarly, you will find a travel-size container for those who use it just once.

While WD-40 can be a handy tool for faucet maintenance, some individuals may prefer alternative solutions for various reasons, including environmental concerns or a desire to use homemade, non-commercial products. Here are some alternative solutions and methods for faucet maintenance:

Vinegar and Baking Soda

• • Why: This natural and eco-friendly combination can effectively remove mineral deposits from faucets.
  • How: Mix equal white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on the affected areas and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Scrub with an old toothbrush or a soft brush, then rinse thoroughly. You can also make a paste with baking soda and water for extra scrubbing power.

Lemon Juice

• • Why: Lemon juice contains citric acid, which can help dissolve mineral deposits and provide a fresh scent.
  • How: Cut a lemon in half and rub it directly onto the faucet’s problem areas. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a brush and rinse thoroughly.

Commercial Lime and Calcium Removers

• • Why: These products are specifically designed to tackle tough mineral deposits.
  • How: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the product’s label for the best results. Typically, you’ll apply the solution, let it sit for a specified time, and then scrub or rinse as directed.

Silicone-Based Lubricants

• • Why: Silicone-based lubricants are an alternative to WD-40 for addressing stiffness in faucet handles and valves.
  • How: Apply a small amount of silicone-based lubricant to the stiff components and work them back and forth to distribute the lubricant evenly.

Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

• • Why: Preventative maintenance can help avoid many faucet problems altogether.
  • How: Clean your faucet regularly using mild soap and warm water. Dry it thoroughly to prevent water spots and mineral buildup. Check for leaks or drips and address them promptly to prevent further damage.

Professional Plumbing Services

• • Why: For complex faucet problems or issues that can’t be resolved with DIY methods, it’s best to seek the expertise of a professional plumber.
  • How: Contact a licensed plumber to assess and repair any serious faucet issues, such as major leaks, extensive corrosion, or the need for faucet replacement.

Learn how to disconnect the sprayer hose from your Delta faucet easily in our comprehensive guide on ‘Disconnecting Sprayer Hose from Delta Faucet.’