DIY Guide: Fixing Your American Standard Touch Faucet Like a Pro

As a homeowner with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen a few malfunctioning American Standard touch faucets. I understand the frustration of a leaky faucet – the constant dripping, the wasted water, and the seemingly complicated repair process.

But let me assure you, fixing it yourself is not as daunting as it may seem.

In this guide, I’ll take you through a clear, step-by-step process to bring your touch faucet back to optimal working condition, backed up with real-life examples from my own work. So, grab your toolbox, and let’s get started.

Contents

[show]

Getting Acquainted with Your American Standard Touch Faucet

American Standard Touch Faucets are renowned for their quality, durability, and state-of-the-art technology. Designed with a touch-sensitive feature, these faucets allow you to start or stop the water flow with a mere touch, offering an unmatched level of convenience and water efficiency.

However, even the best products can sometimes face issues. A common challenge you may encounter with your American Standard Touch Faucet is the touch feature not working properly. This can be due to a variety of reasons – from a low battery to a dirty sensor.

Understanding your touch faucet is the first step to troubleshooting any issues that may arise. With a little knowledge and a willingness to roll up your sleeves, you can solve minor problems without the need for a professional plumber.

In the following sections, I’ll guide you through the process of diagnosing and fixing common issues with your American Standard Touch Faucet.

Diagnosing the Problem: Pinpointing the Issue with Your Touch Faucet

Before we dive into the repair process, it’s crucial to understand what’s causing the malfunction in your American Standard Touch Faucet. Here are a few common problems and their symptoms:

The faucet doesn’t respond to touch: If your touch faucet isn’t responding at all or is inconsistent in its response, it could be due to a power issue. Check the power supply and ensure the batteries aren’t drained.
The faucet turns on and off unexpectedly: This could be due to a sensitivity issue. Your sensor may be too sensitive, picking up unintentional touches.
The faucet leaks despite being turned off: This is usually a mechanical issue. The valve or seal could be damaged and need replacing.
The faucet’s water flow is inconsistent: This could be due to a blockage in the aerator, which may be clogged with mineral deposits or debris. This could cause the water to sputter out or change its flow unpredictably.
The touch feature activates even when not touched: This could be a sensor issue. A faulty sensor or an overly sensitive one might pick up movements near the faucet, turning the water flow on/off without being physically touched.
The faucet’s temperature control isn’t working properly: Occasionally, the faucet may deliver water that’s either too hot or too cold. This often indicates an issue with the thermocouple or temperature control mechanism.
The faucet’s touch feature is completely unresponsive: If the touch feature doesn’t work at all, this could indicate a more serious issue with the touch sensor or control unit.
The faucet makes noise while running: Noise from your faucet can be caused by various reasons like water pressure, loose parts, or an issue with the washer.
The faucet’s spray head doesn’t retract smoothly: This could be caused by a worn-out or damaged weight or hose guide, which keeps the spray head in place.
The LED indicator isn’t working: This could be due to issues with the LED light fixture itself or the power supply that lights it up.

By identifying these symptoms, you’re already one step closer to fixing the issue. However, knowing the problem isn’t enough – now, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get into the repair process.

Tackling the Repair: A Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Your Touch Faucet

In the following sections, we’ll explore solutions for each of these common issues one by one. I’ll walk you through each step of the process, from gathering the necessary tools to successfully implementing the repair.

Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a complete beginner, this guide is designed to make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.

1. Resolving a Power Issue

To rectify a power issue with your American Standard Touch Faucet, you’ll need a few basic tools and a bit of patience. Here’s a more comprehensive breakdown of the steps you need to follow:

Tools required:

A multimeter for testing electrical continuity
A new set of batteries (usually 4 AA batteries, but always check the manufacturer’s specifications)
A Philips-head screwdriver
A flat-head screwdriver

Step-by-step guide:

Safety first: Always start by turning off the main water supply. This will prevent any potential water damage while working on the faucet.
Access the power module: The power module is usually located under your sink. Use your Philips-head screwdriver to remove the power module cover.
Check the existing batteries: Look at the batteries’ positioning before removing them so you can replace them correctly later. Are they leaking or corroded? If so, be sure to clean the battery contacts with a cloth or a small brush.
Test the power supply: Use your multimeter to check if there’s any electrical continuity. If there’s no continuity, your batteries are indeed drained.
Replace the batteries: If the multimeter indicates a lack of continuity—or if the batteries are swollen, leaking, or past their expiration—it’s time to replace them. Insert the new batteries, ensuring they’re positioned correctly as noted earlier.
Reassemble the power module: Once you’ve replaced the batteries, reassemble the power module and replace the cover using your screwdriver.
Test the faucet: Turn the water supply back on and test your faucet. A responsive touch indicates a resolved power issue. However, if the faucet still isn’t responding properly, it might be time to move on to the next steps.

Battery Needs Replacement

Look out for the sensor blinking every second. This is an indication of low battery power.
Replace the batteries in the holder with four new AA alkaline batteries. The batteries generally last about a year.
Always replace all four batteries simultaneously to ensure the proper functioning of the faucet’s electronics.

Power Failure (Manual Bypass)

If there’s a power failure, switch to manual mode. Turn the bypass knob on the solenoid assembly to the “ON” position.
In manual mode, you can use the handle to turn the water on and off.

2. Adjusting the Sensor Sensitivity

If the sensor of your American Standard Touch Faucet is too sensitive or not sensitive enough, adjustments may be necessary. Luckily, this process is quite simple and doesn’t require any special tools.

Tools required:

Your hands (yes, it’s that simple!)

Step-by-step guide:

Locate the sensor: The sensor is usually embedded in the faucet tap or handle. Look for a shiny or matte circular area—that’s your sensor.
Activate the learning mode: To adjust the sensor sensitivity, you need to first activate the faucet’s learning mode. To do this, touch the sensor six times rapidly.
Adjust the sensitivity: Once in learning mode, your faucet will adjust its sensitivity based on how it’s used over the next few minutes. Use the tap as you normally would, but be conscious of the distance and intensity with which you touch it. The faucet will learn from this and adjust its sensitivity accordingly.
Exit the learning mode: After a few minutes of use, the faucet will automatically exit the learning mode and the sensitivity will be set.

If you’re still having problems with the sensitivity of your faucet, you may need to repeat these steps a few times until it operates at your preferred sensitivity level. Always remember to use the faucet as you normally would during the learning mode to ensure the sensitivity is adjusted to your daily usage patterns.

3. Fixing a Leaky Faucet

A leaking faucet is not just an annoyance—it could also lead to water wastage if not addressed promptly. But don’t worry, fixing this issue is easier than you might think. Here’s how you can stop that annoying drip yourself without making a call to the plumber.

Tools required:

An adjustable wrench
A set of screwdrivers
Replacement parts (if necessary)

Step-by-step guide:

Turn off the water supply: Your first step should always be to turn off the water supply to prevent any accidental spills or leaks while you’re working.
Disassemble the faucet: Start by removing the handle of the faucet. This usually involves unscrewing a few parts. Remember to keep all removed parts in a safe place for reassembly later.
Inspect the valve: Once the handle is off, you’ll see the valve assembly. Check this for any signs of damage. If the valve is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
Replace the faulty parts: If you’ve found that your valve or any other components are damaged, replace them with new parts. Make sure the replacements are an exact match for your faucet model.
Reassemble the faucet: After you’ve replaced the faulty parts, reassemble your faucet and make sure everything is tightened and secure.
Test the faucet: Turn the water supply back on and test your faucet. If the leak has stopped, congratulations—you’ve successfully fixed your leaky faucet.

Detecting Worn-Out Parts

When inspecting your faucet assembly, you’re looking for any signs of physical wear and tear. This could be anything from rust and corrosion to cracks and deformations.

Pay close attention to the valve seat as this component is often susceptible to wear due to constant water pressure. If the rubber parts or washers have a brittle or swollen appearance, these are clear signs of wear and should be replaced.

Sourcing New Parts

When it comes to sourcing new parts for your American Standard Touch Faucet, always ensure you’re purchasing items that are specifically designed for your faucet model. The model number can generally be found on the original packaging or manual, or on a label attached to the hose underneath the sink.

Once you have the model number, you can order the parts online directly from American Standard’s website or use it to find compatible parts on other home improvement stores.

4. Addressing Inconsistent Water Flow

An inconsistent water flow from your American Standard Touch Faucet may indicate a blocked aerator. The aerator, which controls the stream of water from the faucet, can become clogged over time with mineral deposits or debris.

This can cause the water to sputter out or change its flow unpredictably. Here’s how you can address this problem yourself.

Tools required:

An adjustable wrench or a pair of pliers
A clean cloth
A small brush (an old toothbrush will work perfectly)
Vinegar (if necessary)

Step-by-step guide:

Remove the aerator: First, you’ll need to remove the aerator from the faucet. It’s usually located at the tip of the faucet and can be unscrewed by hand. If it’s too tight, gently use an adjustable wrench or a pair of pliers to loosen it. Remember to protect the aerator with a cloth to prevent any damage.
Inspect the aerator: Look at the aerator closely. If you see any debris or mineral deposits, it’s time for a clean-up.
Clean the aerator: Use a small brush to remove any visible debris. For stubborn mineral deposits, soak the aerator in a bowl of vinegar for a few hours and then scrub it gently with the brush.
Reinstall the aerator: After cleaning, rinse the aerator thoroughly and screw it back onto the faucet. Ensure it’s secure but not overly tight.
Test the faucet: Turn the water supply back on and test your faucet. The water flow should now be consistent and smooth.

If the problem persists, you might need to consider replacing the aerator. Remember to opt for an aerator compatible with your particular American Standard Touch Faucet model.

5. The Touch Feature Activates Even When Not Touched

Experiencing your American Standard Touch Faucet activating on its own can seem a bit spooky, but rest assured it’s a common issue that often boils down to sensor sensitivity.

An overly sensitive or faulty sensor might pick up unintended movements near the faucet, causing the water to turn on or off without being physically touched. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with some troubleshooting steps that can help.

Tools required:

No tools are required for this fix

Step-by-step guide:

Check for obstructions: First, ensure there are no objects near the faucet that might be causing unintentional activation. This includes dishcloths, sponges, or even a high-traffic area where people often move around.
Reset the faucet: Sometimes, simply resetting your faucet can solve the issue. To do this, disconnect the power to the faucet for about 30 seconds and then reconnect it. This will cause the faucet to reset its sensitivity settings.
Adjust the sensitivity: If the problem persists, you may want to manually adjust the sensor sensitivity. Follow the steps provided earlier in this article to activate the learning mode and adjust the sensitivity.
Contact customer support: If none of these steps resolve the issue, it may indicate a more serious sensor malfunction, and it’s time to reach out to American Standard customer support. They can guide you further, and if necessary, arrange for a replacement sensor compatible with your faucet model.

The goal is to have your faucet respond accurately to touch and not to unintentional movements. With patience and the right guidance, you can get there.

6. The Faucet’s Temperature Control Isn’t Working Properly

From time to time, your American Standard Touch Faucet may deliver water that’s either too hot or too cold. While the water temperature you get could be due to external factors, such as the incoming water supply, often, it indicates an issue with the faucet’s thermocouple or temperature control mechanism. Here’s what you can do to diagnose and fix this problem.

Tools required:

A screwdriver
A thermocouple, if it needs to be replaced

Step-by-step guide:

Inspect the temperature control: To begin with, you’ll need to check the temperature control setting on your faucet. Ensure it is set to a comfortable temperature. If it’s not, adjust it and test the faucet again. If the temperature of the water is still not as desired, proceed to the next step.
Test the thermocouple: The thermocouple, a safety device that senses temperature, can malfunction, causing fluctuations in water temperature. To test it, turn your faucet on and let it run for a couple of minutes. If the water’s temperature doesn’t stabilize, you might have a faulty thermocouple.
Replace the thermocouple: If the thermocouple is the issue, you’ll need to replace it. To do this, first turn off the water supply. Then, use a screwdriver to remove the old thermocouple and install the new one. Remember: the replacement thermocouple should be compatible with your specific model of American Standard Touch Faucet.
Test the faucet: After replacing the thermocouple, turn the water supply back on and test your faucet. The water temperature should now be consistent.
Consult with a professional: If the temperature control still isn’t working correctly, it’s best to consult with a professional or contact American Standard customer support. They can guide you through the necessary steps or arrange a service call if needed.

Addressing temperature control issues promptly can prevent further damage and ensure consistent, comfortable water temperature from your faucet.

7. The Faucet’s Touch Feature is Completely Unresponsive

If your American Standard Touch Faucet doesn’t respond to touch at all, it could indicate a potential issue with the touch sensor or control unit. Here are the steps you can take to diagnose and fix this problem. Don’t worry, even if it seems like a serious issue, I am here to guide you through the process.

Tools required:

A screwdriver
A voltmeter (if available)
A replacement sensor/control unit (if needed)

Step-by-step guide:

Check the power supply: Start by making sure that the faucet is properly connected to power. Ensure that the batteries (if any) are not drained, or check if the power cable is connected correctly and not damaged.
Reset the faucet: Try resetting the faucet by disconnecting the power, waiting for about 30 seconds, and then reconnecting it. This can often resolve minor glitches with the touch sensor.
Test the sensor: If the touch feature still doesn’t work, the touch sensor might be at fault. You can test this by touching different parts of the faucet, as sometimes, the sensor might work on certain parts but not others. If available, use a voltmeter to check if the sensor is receiving power.
Replace the sensor/control unit: If the touch sensor is indeed faulty and you’re comfortable with some DIY, you can replace the sensor or control unit yourself. Remember to purchase a replacement that is compatible with your specific American Standard Touch Faucet model. Use a screwdriver to remove the old unit, install the new one, and then test the faucet.
Contact a professional: If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, or if the touch feature is still unresponsive after replacing the sensor/control unit, it’s time to call in a professional or reach out to American Standard customer support.

Remember, getting your touch faucet up and running smoothly again is absolutely possible with a little patience and the right steps.

8. The Faucet Makes Noise While Running

If your American Standard Touch Faucet makes noise while it’s running, it can be quite a concern. This is not a normal faucet behavior and should be addressed promptly to prevent possible further damage. Noise from your faucet can be caused by various reasons like high water pressure, loose parts, or an issue with the washer. I assure you, this is a problem you can fix yourself with the right approach. Let’s proceed to find out how.

Tools required:

Adjustable wrench
Screwdriver
Replacement washer (if needed)

Step-by-step guide:

Identify the type of noise: The first step is to identify the noise’s nature. If it’s a whistling or hissing sound, it could be due to high water pressure. A rattling noise might point to loose parts, whereas a squeaking noise could mean a problem with the washer.
Check the water pressure: If the noise is a whistle or hiss, try reducing your home’s water pressure. If this resolves the noise, then high water pressure was the culprit. If not, proceed to the next step.
Inspect for loose parts: Turn off the water supply and use your wrench and screwdriver to check for any loose components within your faucet. If you find any, tighten them and then check to see if this resolves the noise issue.
Inspect the washer: If the noise is a squeak, the washer could be worn out or not fitted properly. Inspect the washer, and if it shows signs of wear and tear, replace it with a new one that is compatible with your American Standard Touch Faucet model.
Test the faucet: After performing these adjustments, turn the water supply back on and test your faucet. The noise should now be gone.
Contact a professional: If you’ve tried the steps above and the noise persists, it’s time to call a professional or contact American Standard customer support. They can assist you further in diagnosing and resolving the issue.

Remember, a faucet should not be a source of noise pollution in your home.

9. The Faucet’s Spray Head Doesn’t Retract Smoothly

Experiencing difficulties with your American Standard Touch Faucet’s spray head not retracting smoothly? This is a common issue that can be quite frustrating and may be due to a worn-out or damaged weight or hose guide, which helps to keep the spray head in place.

Tools required:

New weight or hose guide (if needed)
Screwdriver
Adjustable wrench

Step-by-step guide:

Inspect the weight and hose guide: Start by turning off the water supply and inspecting the weight and hose guide. These components are crucial in ensuring the smooth retraction of your faucet’s spray head. If they appear worn-out, damaged, or not securely attached, it’s likely they’re the source of the problem.
Replace the weight or hose guide: If you identify issues with the weight or hose guide, you’ll need to replace them. Using your screwdriver and adjustable wrench, carefully remove the old components and install the replacements.
Test the faucet: Once the new weight and hose guide has been installed, turn the water supply back on and test your faucet. The spray head should now retract smoothly.

The key to maintaining the functionality and longevity of your faucet is to act promptly when issues arise.

10. The Faucet’s LED Indicator Isn’t Working

Are you facing a problem with the LED indicator on your American Standard Touch Faucet? If the LED light isn’t lighting up as it should, it can be due to an issue with the LED light fixture itself, or an issue with the power supply that lights it up.

Tools required:

New LED light fixture (if needed)
Screwdriver
Voltmeter (if available)

Step-by-step guide:

Check the power supply: The first step is to make sure the faucet is connected to power. Check if the batteries are not drained or if the power cable is connected correctly and undamaged.
Inspect the LED fixture: If the power supply is not the issue, the LED fixture might be at fault. Carefully inspect the LED fixture for any visible signs of damage.
Test the LED fixture: If you have a voltmeter, you can use it to check whether the LED fixture is receiving power. If it is not, it may be time to replace the fixture.
Replace the LED fixture: If the LED fixture is indeed faulty and you’re comfortable with DIY repairs, you can replace the fixture yourself. Use your screwdriver to remove the old fixture, install the new one, and then test the faucet.

An LED indicator is a convenient feature that adds a touch of modernity to your faucet, and with the right approach, you can keep it functioning smoothly.

Additional Tips for Faucet Maintenance

Remember, prevention is better than cure. Regular maintenance of your faucet can eliminate the need for major repairs down the line. Here are some extra tips to help you keep your faucet in tip-top shape.

Understand your faucet model: Faucets are not all the same. Understanding the specific model you have can make all the difference when it comes to troubleshooting and fixing issues. Make sure to keep the manual handy for reference – it often contains crucial information about spare parts and specific maintenance tips.
Check for leaks regularly: Minor leaks can easily go unnoticed until they turn into bigger problems. Regularly inspecting your faucet for any signs of leaks can help you catch and fix any issues early on.
Clean regularly: Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining the functionality and aesthetics of your faucet. A simple wipe-down with a soft cloth can prevent the buildup of grime and mineral deposits, which can cause blockages and impair the faucet’s performance.
Replace worn-out components: Over time, parts such as washers, seals, and O-rings can wear out and cause leaks. Regularly check these components and replace them as necessary.
Use quality replacement parts: Always use quality parts when replacing worn-out or damaged components. Cheap parts can be a false economy – they might be less expensive upfront, but they will wear out faster and may not provide an optimal fit, leading to further issues down the line.

Detailed Steps to Access the Various Parts of Your Faucet

We discussed the steps earlier to assist you in repairing your faucet. Now, let’s delve into more detail to ensure that even beginners can grasp the process. Before you begin disassembling, it’s crucial to turn off the water supply to your faucet. This precaution will prevent any undesired water leaks or damage.

Tools Required:

Screwdriver
Adjustable Wrench

Detailed Guide:

Step 1: Shut Off the Water Supply:

The first step is to disconnect the water supply to your faucet. This is usually done by turning the water supply valves under the sink to the “off” position. Turn the handles on these valves clockwise until they stop, this should shut off the water flow.

Step 2: Remove the Faucet Handle:

Now, let’s proceed to the handle removal. At the base of the faucet handle, you’ll find a small screw. Get your screwdriver, and turn it counterclockwise to loosen the screw. Once loose, you should be able to simply lift the handle straight up and off the faucet body.

Step 3: Remove the Cartridge:

With the handle removed, you’ll be able to see the cartridge. The cartridge is essentially the ‘heart’ of your faucet – it controls how the water flows and its temperature. To remove it, use your adjustable wrench to carefully turn the nut at the top of the cartridge counter-clockwise. After loosening the nut, lift the cartridge straight up to remove it from the faucet body.

Step 4: Access the Faucet Spout and Aerator:

With the cartridge out of the way, you can now access the spout. Gently lift the spout straight upwards to remove it from the faucet body. Right at the tip of the spout, you’ll find the aerator, which controls the stream of water coming out of your faucet.

When disassembling your faucet, it’s crucial to keep track of all the components and their order of assembly. This will make the reassembly process smoother and ensure every component goes back to its proper place.

Example: Let’s say your faucet has a leak, and you suspect the issue lies with the cartridge. By following the steps above, you can easily access the cartridge, check it for any signs of damage, and replace it if necessary. Or perhaps the water flow from the spout isn’t as smooth as it used to be. The culprit could be a blocked aerator. Again, by disassembling the faucet, you can access the aerator, clean it, or replace it, and restore your faucet’s optimal performance.

By learning how to disassemble your faucet, you can take charge of your faucet’s maintenance, troubleshoot issues effectively, and ensure its longevity.

Essential Replacement Parts and Their Specifics

Navigating the world of faucet parts can be a bit daunting, but worry not, I’ve sorted out the key components you might need for your American Standard Touch Faucet. Here are the details:

35mm Cartridge & Screw Kit: A crucial part that controls the water flow and temperature. Its model number is M951483-0070A and comes in a no-finish look.
Plug Button, Wrench & Set Screw Kit: This set is all about the details, helping you tighten and secure your faucet perfectly. It comes in a sleek chrome finish, with the model number M970900-0020A.
Solenoid Assembly: This is the heart of the touch functionality of your faucet. If your tap doesn’t respond to touch, you might need to replace this part. It’s model M954486-0070A and is available in a no-finish version.
Mounting Kit: To securely fasten your faucet, you’ll need this mounting kit. It’s available under the model M962146-0070A and comes in a no-finish look.
Snap-On Counterweight: This handy little piece helps your faucet retract smoothly. Look for model M970705-0070A in a no-finish variant.
Faucet Solenoid Retro Kit – Rev 1: This is a crucial part of updating your faucet’s touch functionality. It’s available under the model M964410-0070A in a no-finish look.

Conclusion:

In this article, we’ve walked through some essential maintenance tips for your American Standard Touch Faucet, discussing everything from regular checks for leaks, and proper cleaning routines, to replacing worn-out components with high-quality parts.

We dove into a detailed, step-by-step guide on disassembling your faucet, complete with an easy-to-follow process and useful tools. Plus, we’ve explored examples of how these steps can help you troubleshoot and resolve common faucet issues. Lastly, we familiarized ourselves with the key replacement parts needed for your faucet and their specifics.

I hope that this article has inspired you to roll up your sleeves and give it a go. Remember, the key is to understand the process and have the right parts at hand.

I invite you to explore more of my DIY articles for additional guidance on various home improvement projects. Armed with these insights, you can become the master of your own home, learning valuable skills and gaining a sense of accomplishment in the process.

I’m J.S., I created and am the content manager at DIYHouseSkills.com. I do the research and write the articles that appear on this website. I’ve learned many household skills during my life and think it’s important to at least know the basics so that you can save yourself time and money… READ FULL BIO >