Every now and again, you may run into issues with your Kohler faucet. While these faucets are excellent quality fixtures and backed by equally impressive warranties, every product is bound to encounter problems at some point in its lifespan.
So, perhaps you’re browsing the internet, trying to figure out how to fix your Kohler faucet. And while repair guides are plentiful, some fail to mention what size of Allen wrench you need. So, how are you supposed to know? We’re here to clear up the confusion, so keep reading to learn more!
What Is An Allen Wrench?
An Allen wrench is a handy, versatile little tool used for tightening and loosening hexagon socket screws and bolts. Given their small size, these tools are a popular addition to DIY setup products, like disassembled chairs, tables, desks, etc.
As you read through guides outlining how to tackle your Kohler faucet’s repair, you might come across an Allen wrench in the list of the necessary tools. Some folks also call these tools Allen keys, hex keys, or hex wrenches, but they all refer to the same thing.
The tool is shaped like an L and, like the letter, has one long branch and one short branch. It has a 90-degree corner, which makes it convenient for getting into small spaces that you can’t reach with your hands.
Common Allen wrench sizes include:
- 1/16 inch
- 5/64 inch
- 3/32 inch
- 7/64 inch
- ⅛ inch
- 9/64 inch
- 5/32 inch
- 3/16 inch
- 7/32 inch
- ¼ inch
- 5/16 inch
- ⅜ inch
What Size Allen Wrench Do Kohler Faucets Need?
Allen wrenches come in a wide range of sizes, so knowing the correct size for your repair project is essential. However, some guides don’t mention the proper size to tackle said project.
Why? Kohler makes a bunch of different faucets for varying scenarios, with a range of configurations, styles, and designs. So, this makes it tricky to give one all-encompassing answer. While this statement isn’t particularly helpful, it will assist in the explanation of our response to the main question.
So – what size Allen wrench do you need for a Kohler faucet? The answer is it depends. Since there’s quite a bit of variation in Kohler’s faucet lineup, certain faucets require different wrench sizes.
For example, on the Mazz Kitchen Sink Faucet, you’ll need a 3/32 inch (or 2.5mm) Allen key. This will allow you to tighten or loosen the set screw in the handle to do whatever repair is needed.
On the other hand, some of Kohler’s faucets require a ⅛ inch Allen wrench. So, the answer hinges on the particular faucet model you’re dealing with.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do All Kohler Faucets Have Set Screws?
No, not all Kohler faucets have set screws. While most of Kohler’s kitchen faucets feature a set screw, some bathroom faucets don’t have one.
For example, Kohler’s Devonshire widespread faucets have a decorative flared piece underneath the handle. To remove the handles on these faucets, you need to turn the skirt below the handle counterclockwise. In some scenarios, you might need to use a strap wrench with a cloth to protect the finish.
Where Is The Set Screw On A Kohler Faucet?
The placement of the set screw on your Kohler faucet depends on which one you have. For example, some of Kohler’s kitchen faucets hide the set screw on the backside of the handle. When the handle is in the ON position, the set screw hole is exposed.
Like many faucet manufacturers, Kohler gets creative with hiding the set screws in its faucets. Many times, the set screw is hidden by a small decorative cap. To access the set screw, you’ll have to carefully pry the decorative cap away, which will expose the screw underneath.
Some common places the screw hides include:
- Beneath the lever
- On the post attached to the lever
- On the collar attached to the lever, generally on the same side as the lever
Alternatively, there might be a small oval plug button hiding the screw. Usually, these buttons are on the backside of the faucet handle. To access the screw, you need to position the handle in the up position, then pull the button out. In some cases, you might need to use a small screwdriver to carefully pry up the button’s edge.
How Do I Tighten The Handle On My Kohler Faucet?
Every now and again, the handle on your Kohler faucet may become loose. If the faucet has a set screw, use the screw to tighten the handle. If the faucet doesn’t have a set screw (like the Devonshire faucets), tighten the decorative skirt at the base of the handle.
In some cases, tightening the set screw itself might not do the trick, so you’ll have to do a bit more digging to find the problem. Depending on the root of the problem, you may need additional tools, like an adjustable wrench, Philips screwdriver, etc., to access the valve body.