What can I use to lubricate a new kitchen faucet no longer turns?
I installed a new kitchen faucet about 6 months ago. However, it no longer turns/swivels at the base. My non-expert inspection of the problem seems to suggest that the point-of-swivel has a build up of hard water or other kind of water-deposit. I believe the ring inside the unit is plastic.
I'm not at home at the moment, but from off the top of my head I believe this is the unit we purchased.
We did not use the horizontal base at the bottom, as we didn't have any soap--dispenser holes to cover (new granite counter tops).
Any idea on how to loosen this thing up? Right now it takes 2 hands to turn, and usually results in turning the whole unit instead of swiveling on the joint. My first inclination was to use WD-40 but I wasn't sure how that would work on plastic (seems like it could be damaging)
Use CLR to dissolve the buildup from hard water. Just soak the parts with buildup in a little bit of it. This stuff works miracles. You can buy it anywhere.
White malt vinegar will dissolve limescale. For best results, disassemble the faucet and soak the parts in the vinegar overnight. After they've soaked, the limescale should just rinse off with water.
The faucet needs to be disassembled from the top. I guess you already know how to do that part. If there is calcium build up visible go ahead and use CLR to clean off the build up. Now the important part, get a high quality, pure if possible, Silicone Grease. When I say “pure” what I am saying is make sure it is 90-100% silicone. If it is silicone mixed in high proportion with another type grease it is not a good choice.
Most O-Rings and faucet seals are made of Nitrile Butadiene Rubber. The Only grease you should use on these is Silicone Grease. Every other grease has detrimental effects on Nitrile Butadiene Rubber. Plumbers grease sadly gets dry and crusty in these faucets. It is also too “stiff” for long term easy movement. Vaseline and any oil base grease will break down the Nitrile Butadiene Rubber in 6 months to a year. Oils, like olive oil or WD40 or 3-in-1 oils are too thin and will not stay in place for long at all. There is NO suitable substitute for Silicone Grease. Danco a company which makes O-Rings also supplies grease for them. Danco Perfect Match: Silicone Grease. I get mine on Amazon. This will solve your faucet lubrication problems.
At the point of the swivel apply some plumber's grease or grease that you would use on a fishing reel. Make sure that you put the grease up on the inside too.
Of course the real solution is to get a water softener or install a filter between the supply line and your faucet.
The grease will never hinder or hurt your swivel
Stiff Faucet Neck Fix
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