Step 5 · Apply Controlled Heat

This is the step most people slow down on. Take it one move at a time — there’s no rush, and you can rewind the clip as many times as you need.

If wiggling fails, applying heat can be very effective. The principle of thermal expansion means the metal handle will expand slightly faster than the valve stem inside, helping to break the corrosion's grip. Use a standard hairdryer set to its highest heat setting. Wear protective gloves as the handle will become hot. Direct the hot air stream at the base of the faucet handle, moving the hairdryer continuously to heat all sides evenly. Do this for 1-2 minutes. Immediately after heating, grasp the hot handle (with your gloves on) and repeat the wiggling and pulling technique from the previous step. The combination of heat and motion is often enough to free the most stubborn handles.