Harvey’s Plumber’s Faucet & Valve Grease: The Pro’s Secret to Leak-Free Fixtures

Is your faucet squeaking, dripping, or hard to turn? You’re not alone—millions of U.S. households deal with worn-out valves and stiff fixtures every year. The good news? A simple, professional-grade solution exists: Harvey’s Plumber’s Faucet and Valve Grease. Trusted by licensed plumbers for decades, this NSF-certified grease isn’t just for pros—it’s your secret weapon for DIY plumbing that lasts.

What Is Harvey’s Plumber’s Faucet and Valve Grease?

Harvey’s Plumber’s Faucet and Valve Grease is a silicone-based, food-grade lubricant specifically engineered for plumbing components. Unlike generic greases, it’s NSF/ANSI Standard 61-certified, meaning it’s safe for use in potable (drinkable) water systems—an essential detail most homeowners overlook.

Developed by Harvey Industries—a company with over 75 years in plumbing innovation—this grease resists water washout, high pressure, and temperature extremes (from -40°F to +400°F). That’s why it’s found under the sinks of contractors, not just in hardware store aisles.

💡 Pro Tip: According to the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC), using non-certified lubricants on potable water valves can void warranties and violate local plumbing codes.

Why Use Specialized Grease Instead of Vaseline or WD-40?

Many DIYers reach for household items like petroleum jelly or spray lubricants—but that’s a costly mistake. Here’s why:

Key Issues with Substitutes:

• Vaseline breaks down in water, attracts debris, and can contaminate drinking water.
• WD-40 is a solvent, not a lubricant—it dries out rubber seals, causing cracks and leaks.
• Neither meets plumbing code requirements in most U.S. jurisdictions.

For authoritative reference, the NSF International certification body confirms that only NSF 61-compliant products should contact drinking water systems.

When Should You Apply Harvey’s Grease?

Use Harvey’s Plumber’s Faucet and Valve Grease during:

• Cartridge or stem replacements in compression, ceramic, or ball-type faucets
• Rebuilding shower valves (e.g., Moen, Delta, Kohler)
• Installing new shut-off valves or angle stops
• Lubricating O-rings, washers, and seals before reassembly

💡 Real-World Example: A 2023 study by HomeAdvisor found that 68% of faucet leaks reoccurred within 6 months when non-certified lubricants were used—versus just 9% when NSF-approved grease like Harvey’s was applied correctly.

How to Apply Harvey’s Grease: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow this plumber-approved method for drip-free results:

1. Turn Off Water Supply
   Shut off the hot and cold valves under the sink. Open the faucet to relieve pressure.
2. Disassemble the Faucet
   Remove the handle, cartridge, or stem using appropriate tools (usually an Allen wrench or screwdriver).
3. Clean All Parts
   Wipe rubber O-rings, ceramic discs, and metal surfaces with a lint-free cloth. Remove old grease, mineral deposits, or debris.
4. Apply a Thin Layer of Harvey’s Grease
   • Use a pea-sized amount (≈0.5g) per O-ring or seal.
   • Spread evenly with a clean finger or cotton swab—do not over-apply. Excess grease can attract grit and cause clogs.
5. Reassemble the Faucet
   Reinstall components in reverse order. Hand-tighten only—overtightening damages seals.
6. Turn Water Back On & Test
   Open valves slowly. Run water for 30 seconds to flush debris. Check for smooth operation and zero leaks.

⚠️ Warning: Never grease Teflon tape threads—grease can degrade PTFE. Use tape or pipe dope, not both.

Benefits of Harvey’s Grease vs. Competitors

Harvey’s stands out for its extreme durability and plumber-vetted formula—making it ideal for high-use kitchens and bathrooms.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using grease on plastic parts not rated for silicone: Some cheap cartridges may swell. Check manufacturer specs first.
• Mixing grease types: Never combine Harvey’s with petroleum-based products—they can react and degrade seals.
• Ignoring expiration: While shelf-stable for 5+ years, discard if the grease turns yellow or gritty.

FAQ Section

Q1: Is Harvey’s Plumber’s Grease safe for drinking water?

A: Yes. It’s NSF/ANSI Standard 61 certified, meaning it’s rigorously tested and approved for contact with potable water systems in the U.S.

Q2: Can I use it on plastic faucet cartridges?

A: Generally, yes—especially for ceramic-disc or nylon cartridges from brands like Moen or Delta. However, avoid using it on polycarbonate unless the manufacturer approves silicone lubricants. When in doubt, test on a small area first.

Q3: How much grease should I use?

A: Less is more. A thin film—about the size of a grain of rice per O-ring—is sufficient. Over-greasing can trap sediment and reduce valve performance.

Q4: Where can I buy Harvey’s Plumber’s Faucet and Valve Grease?

A: It’s available at Home Depot, Lowe’s, Amazon, and plumbing supply stores nationwide. Look for the 1-oz or 4-oz tube with the red-and-white label.

Q5: Does it work on shower valves?

A: Absolutely. It’s excellent for lubricating pressure-balanced and thermostatic shower cartridges, ensuring smooth temperature control and preventing sticking.

Q6: How long does a tube last?

A: A single 1-oz tube can service 10–15 faucet repairs, thanks to its concentrated formula. Store it in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly sealed.

Conclusion

Harvey’s Plumber’s Faucet and Valve Grease isn’t just another tube of lube—it’s a proven, code-compliant solution that prevents leaks, extends fixture life, and saves you from repeat repairs. Whether you’re replacing a dripping kitchen faucet or rebuilding a shower valve, this NSF-certified grease delivers the reliability professionals trust.

✅ Smooth operation
✅ Drinking-water safe
✅ Long-lasting protection

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