Turn water on and it has a squeal -- does it on both hot and cold side

A common but annoying problem for many people, especially those who own older homes, is a squealing faucet. The good news is that a squealing faucet is not too difficult to fix if you have the time and the proper tools. Rather than hiring a plumber and potentially paying hundreds of dollars, fix this issue yourself. In most cases, a squealing faucet is due to worn parts, such as handle threads that have lost their lubrication.

1. Turn off your water at the source by locating the main water line and turning the valve that controls the water.
   

2. 2

   Plug the drain in the sink you're working in to avoid dropping any small parts and losing them. Line up all parts in the order you are removing them, which will make it easier to remember when you put them back together.
   

3. 3

   Pop the plastic end caps off the handles of the faucet and set them aside.
   

4. 4

   Locate the screws in the center of the faucet handles and unscrew them.
   

5. 5

   Pull off each of the faucet handles by rotating them back and forth until they come off. If they're not coming off easily, use a wrench wrapped around a rag to remove them.
   

6. 6

   Line the inner threads of the handle stems with silicone grease.
   

7. 7

   Reinstall both handles and turn the water back on. If you still are experiencing squealing, repeat the same process of removing both handles again.
   

8. 8

   Remove the entire valve stem by using a wrench to loosen the packing nut and pulling the valve stem assembly out.
   

9. 9

   Check the washer at the base of the valve stem assembly for visible damage. If it appears worn or damaged, take the entire valve stem assembly to a hardware store and find a replacement washer that fits.
   

10. 10

    Inspect all other parts of the valve stem for visible damage. Take the stem to the hardware store to get a second opinion if you think there may be damage to other parts.
    

11. 11

    Replace any necessary parts of the valve stem, and tighten all parts thoroughly as you reinstall them. Loose parts may also be a case of squealing faucets.
    

12. 12

    Turn the water back on once again at the main source, and your squealing faucet should be fixed.