How to Repair a Cartridge Faucet
- Getting Started. Start by turning off the water supply. ...
- Disengaging Cartridge Faucet. Using the sharp edge of a putty-knife, open the cover that opens like a flap. ...
- Accessing Cartridge Stem & O-ring. When the handle is removed, the inner cartridge stem is easily visible. ...
- Seeking Replacements. ...
- Replacing Faucet Components. ...
How to tell if a faucet cartridge is bad?
With that said, follow these steps to replace your faucet cartridge (s):
- Shut off the water supply. To begin, find the shutoff valves under the sink and close the valve for the tap that you’ll be working on by rotating the handle ...
- Remove the handle of the faucet. ...
- Unscrew the retaining nut. ...
- Take out the old faucet cartridge. ...
- Purchase a replacement cartridge. ...
- Install the new faucet cartridge. ...
- Finish up. ...
How to replace a cartridge for your reliant faucet?
Product Overview
- Durable construction
- Ceramic disc valves for a lifetime of drip-free performance
- Easy to install
- Check repair part information for compatibility with your faucet
- Genuine American Standard repair part
- For use with the American Standard reliant faucet line
How do you replace a faucet cartridge?
Take out both pieces:
- If there is an O-ring, remove it. You can hook it on the end of a screwdriver.
- If you can’t slip off the O-ring, cut it with a utility knife.
- Remove a spring if you see one.
- Clean any debris from the faucet housing with a soft cloth.
- Using a rag, soak up any excess water in the faucet handles.
How do you remove the cartridge from the shower faucet?
- Turn off the water supply to the Sink.
- Remove the Handle by lifting off the Index Cap with a flathead screwdriver.
- If your Faucet has a Lock Ring or Lock Nut, you will need to remove it with a Screwdriver or Pliers before you will be able to remove the Cartridge.
What is a setcrew on a faucet?
How many tabs does a faucet cartridge have?
What is a compression type faucet?
How to loosen a cartridge retaining nut?
How to get water out of a faucet when shut off?
What do new cartridges include?
What is a two handle faucet?
See more
How do I know if my faucet cartridge is bad?
Signs that a cartridge faucet needs repair are water dripping from the spout, difficulty in adjusting the water temperature, hot water entering cold water outlets like toilet supply lines and inadequately heated water at some faucets.
How do you stop a leaking faucet cartridge?
Spread a thin layer of plumber's grease around the cartridge. Push the faucet cartridge into the faucet, aligning it with the notches. Then tighten the large retaining nut with the wrench and replace the handles. Kits containing faucet repair parts are readily available at hardware stores and home centers.
How do you take apart a faucet cartridge?
1:502:51How to Remove a Faucet Cartridge - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIt using an allen wrench. Then lift it off twist the bonnet nut counterclockwise to remove it liftMoreIt using an allen wrench. Then lift it off twist the bonnet nut counterclockwise to remove it lift out the cam. Then the packing and ball valve remove the seats and springs using a small screwdriver.
How do you replace a single handle faucet cartridge?
0:372:26Repairing a Leaky Single Handle Cartridge-Type Faucet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUse a wrench to remove the retainer. Next pull the cartridge from your father. Now that you removeMoreUse a wrench to remove the retainer. Next pull the cartridge from your father. Now that you remove the cartridge you need to take it to your local retailer.
Why is my faucet still dripping after changing the cartridge?
Your faucet may contain a ceramic, brass, or rubber seat that is meant to form a seal at the bottom of the cartridge opening. The seat can become damaged with use so that it no longer fits correctly into the hole in the cartridge, which allows water to leak. The O-ring may also become cracked and cause a leak.
How do I identify my faucet cartridge?
0:063:20Quick Ways to Identify the Brand and Manufacturer for Faucet RepairYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnother quick tip is to look underneath the sink because sometimes you might be able to find a labelMoreAnother quick tip is to look underneath the sink because sometimes you might be able to find a label that's attached to a supply line that will tell you the manufacturer.
Are all faucet cartridges the same?
Today, most brands have their own specifications and parts. Now there is variance in stems (cartridges), valves, and splines. Because of this, you will need to know how to identify the brand of your faucet before you can fix it. Knowing what you're working with makes it easier to disassemble and fix.
Can you clean a faucet cartridge?
1:472:55How to Clean a Kitchen Faucet Cartridge - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipLet the water run for about three or four seconds. This will flush out any debris trapped in theMoreLet the water run for about three or four seconds. This will flush out any debris trapped in the faucet or in the water line. Once.
How much does it cost to replace a faucet cartridge?
The cost to replace a shower cartridge is $100 to $350. A faucet cartridge costs $10 to $80, depending on the brand, material, and valve type. Plumbers charge $90 to $270 in labor to replace a shower cartridge....Shower cartridge replacement cost.National average cost$210Average cost range$100 to $3502 more rows•Sep 23, 2021
How do you remove a single lever faucet cartridge?
0:402:56How to Repair a Leaky Single Handle Cartridge Faucet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFirst you will need to turn off the hot and cold water supply valve under the sink. Next you willMoreFirst you will need to turn off the hot and cold water supply valve under the sink. Next you will need to remove the single lever handle. This may require using an allen wrench to loosen the handle.
How do you remove a single handle bathroom faucet cartridge?
1:403:54Repair and Replace (Single Handle | Moen | Bathroom Faucet) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUse a wrench to twist back and forth to loosen the cartridge. Now use the pliers to pull theMoreUse a wrench to twist back and forth to loosen the cartridge. Now use the pliers to pull the cartridge straight out of the valve.
How do I fix a single handle bathroom faucet?
1:192:32How to Repair a Leaky Lavatory Faucet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf you have a one-piece cam you will not have an adjusting ring. Next pull out the ball beneath. TheMoreIf you have a one-piece cam you will not have an adjusting ring. Next pull out the ball beneath. The ball are the seats and springs to help remove and replace the seats.
How tight should a faucet cartridge be?
Be careful not to overtighten the packing nut; it should be just tight enough to stop leaking around the stem. If too tight, the handle will be hard to turn; if too loose, it will allow water to leak out around the stem.
Why does my shower cartridge keep failing?
Faucet and shower cartridge failures are generally the result of a rubber O ring inside the faucet or valve having dried out or passages in the cartridge have become blocked. A failure can result in a leaky faucet a shower that will not allow the hot water to flow.
Why is my shower cartridge leaking?
When water drips or drizzles from a shower head, there is a problem with the shower faucet (valve). In most cases, inner seals are worn, or parts have become corroded or clogged with hard water deposits. And the rubber O-rings and gaskets that seal connections between moving metal parts wear down with time and use.
Are all faucet cartridges the same?
Today, most brands have their own specifications and parts. Now there is variance in stems (cartridges), valves, and splines. Because of this, you will need to know how to identify the brand of your faucet before you can fix it. Knowing what you're working with makes it easier to disassemble and fix.
Why does the cartridge stem leak?
The cartridge stem contains most of the damageable parts that are prone to wear and tear due to water pressure. The cartridge stem often leads to leakages or drips. Apart from this, the o-ring might get loosened over a period.
What is a cartridge faucet?
Cartridge faucets are commonly used in residential and commercially plumbing. A cartridge faucet contains a mobile stem (called the perforated cartridge) that controls the flow of water. The stem has a basic, up and down movement. The stem also defines the water pressure exerted through the faucet.
How to unfasten a stem?
Once the stem is removed, accessing the body is rather easy. You need to turn the body in an anti-clockwise direction to unfasten it. Below the body lies the o-ring. Inspect the o-ring for any kind of damages.
What is the circular body of a faucet?
Continuing downwards, the stem leads to the circular body of the faucet. The body is attached to an extended spout that has an aerator at its end. The circular body is imposed upon the plumbing fitting via an o-ring. Please understand that most of these parts are very durable and don’t need repairs.
What to do if you can't decode a stem?
If you cannot decode the damage along the stem, take it to any plumbing or hardware supply store. Plumbing personnel can immediately tell whether the stem is worth continuing with or needs replacement. Usually, it is advised to replace the stem since repairing seldom corrects the inner causes inducing leakages.
Whether your faucet leaks from the spout or handles, you'll find it easy to repair with these tips for replacing a faucet cartridge
Whether your faucet leaks from the spout or handles, you'll find it easy to repair with these tips for replacing a faucet cartridge.
Introduction
We'll take the mystery out of cartridge-type faucets and show you how to fix them yourself. Regardless of where the faucet is leaking, you can make the DIY repair by following the steps in this story. It doesn't take any plumbing expertise, and it'll finally put an end to that annoying leak.
Quick fix for a leaky faucet cartridge
They sure don’t make ’em like they used to—and when it comes to faucets, it’s a good thing. In the old days, repairing a leaky faucet could be as simple as replacing a rubber washer, but more likely it involved struggling with corroded screws and stripped valve stems.
Remove the handles and retaining nut
Shut off the water to the sink. Remove the faucet handles. Most are held on by retaining screws under the caps on the top of the handles. Our handles were held on with small Allen screws located under the handle. Then unscrew the large nut that holds the faucet cartridge in.
Remove the faucet cartridge and old seat
Pull straight up on the faucet cartridge to remove it. Use pliers if you have to, but be sure to protect the faucet cartridge with tape or a rag. Note the orientation of the faucet cartridge to the notches in the faucet so you can reinstall it the same way. Remove the old seat and spring with a small screwdriver.
Install the new faucet cartridge
Drop the new spring into the recess and push the new seat in with your finger. Spread a thin layer of plumber's grease around the cartridge. Push the faucet cartridge into the faucet, aligning it with the notches. Then tighten the large retaining nut with the wrench and replace the handles.
Can a Faucet Cartridge be Repaired?
If your faucet is dripping or leaking, you may be wondering if it’s possible to repair the faucet cartridge. Many households feature cartridge faucets, whether single- or two-handle. The cartridge is a plastic component in your faucet that is responsible for controlling the flow and temperature of the water.
Turn Off Water
Before you can replace your faucet’s cartridge, you want to ensure that no water is flowing. Follow these steps for shutting off the water supply to the sink you’re going to be working on:
Detach Handle Covers
After you’ve shut off the water supply, continue the replacement process with the handles. It’s common for faucet hardware to have decorative covers, which will need to be removed. If, instead, you don’t have decorative handles and see a screw on your handle, you can disregard this step.
Disconnect the Handles and Nuts
With the screw now visible on the tap handles, simply unscrew it clockwise until you can pull it out. This process may vary slightly based on the set up of your particular faucet. If you have a faucet with angled handles, the screw may be located on the side of the handle and need an Allen wrench or hex key to remove.
Remove the Faucet Cartridge
The cartridge looks like a plastic cylinder that has notches on the side and a stem on the top. Once you’ve removed enough pieces from the faucet, the cartridge will be visible. Gently lift the cartridge out of the faucet body and set it aside. If needed, use pliers to grip the stem and remove.
Detach O-Ring and Springs
After you’ve successfully removed the cartridge, examine the inside of the faucet. Depending on the faucet you have, there may be an O-ring – which looks like a washer or a round rubber “O.” Both this and a spring (if you see one) will need to be removed.
Replace and Reassemble
Faucet cartridges come in many shapes and sizes. The most efficient way to find the correct part is to come prepared. Consider bringing the cartridge, O-ring, and spring with you to your local hardware store to ensure that you get the right replacement parts.
What is a faucet cartridge?
Every machinery item has its working process. A faucet cartridge is such an item of a bathroom used to control water flow, and it is a one-handle faucet. Previously, dual-handle compression faucets were used mostly for this purpose. One handle was for cold water and the other one for hot water. You can easily control the flow ...
How many handles does a cartridge faucet have?
In cartridge faucets, it has only one handle which remains connected to the valve housing. Instead of two handles, you can easily control the flow of hot or cold water using this single handle when you turn off the faucet; the cartridge inside the housing blocks the water from flowing from both inlets. There are strategic holes to allow both cold ...
What is a compression faucet?
Each compression faucet comes with a washer installed inside. Usually, it is made of rubber. The tap may drip or leak if this washer is worn out. When water starts flowing, it pushes the washer against the valve seat and creates friction. As a result, the washer loses strength and fails.
How does a hot water switch work?
When you turn on the switch of hot or cold water, it circulates through the check valves. Then it flows the balancing spool of the cartridge. It controls the flow according to the pressure variation. Then the water flows through the thermostatic part.
What happens if you can't find the water leak above your sink?
If you cannot find out the place of water leakage above your sink, then most probably your pipe or underneath pipes have been broken. In this case, you should call a professional who knows how to fix this well.
What happens when you change the water temperature?
If you change the water temperature, the sensor will control it inside the cartridge. As a result, you will get your desired temperature of the water . The ceramic inside the cartridge determines the outlet of the water.
Do cartridge faucets come with a double handle?
As the cartridge faucets come with a double-handle, so these are much more convenient rather than compression faucets. The working process of a faucet cartridge is so much easier. We have discussed “How does a faucet cartridge work” here in brief.
What is a setcrew on a faucet?
Some handles have setscrews on the side or rear. Others have a decorative cap (usually plastic) that conceals a screw that secures the handle. Your faucet may also have a removable lever that unscrews from the handle base to allow easy access to the handle setscrew. If your faucet has a decorative cap, pry off the cap with a small flathead ...
How many tabs does a faucet cartridge have?
Note the orientation of the faucet cartridge. You must reinstall the new cartridge in exactly the same way. Most cartridges have one or two tabs that fit into notches on the faucet body.
What is a compression type faucet?
If you have a very old two-handle faucet, it may be a compression-type rather than a cartridge. You'll know when you remove the faucet handle: Cartridges are usually plastic and are held in place with a metal retaining nut; compression faucets usually have a metal valve with a flat rubber washer on the bottom.
How to loosen a cartridge retaining nut?
Loosen the cartridge retaining nut, using a pipe wrench or tongue-and-groove pliers. Unscrew the nut all the way and remove it from the faucet body. Note the brass screw at the top of the cartridge, if there is one. Its purpose is to reinforce the cartridge shaft when the faucet body's setscrew is tightened against it.
How to get water out of a faucet when shut off?
Once the water is shut off, open the faucet fully to release any pressure in the water lines and let any water drain out. If your shutoff valves have levers instead of knobs, rotate the levers until they are perpendicular to the water pipes or tubing (the direction of the water flow).
What do new cartridges include?
New cartridges typically include new rubber O-rings for the cartridge. If desired, also pick up some plumber's grease for the O-rings. This makes it easier to insert the cartridge into the faucet body and is an especially good idea if the old cartridge was difficult to remove. Home-Cost.
What is a two handle faucet?
Most bathroom faucets that have two handles are cartridge-style faucets. Each faucet handle (hot and cold) has its own cartridge, a valve that turns with the handle to control the flow of water into the faucet spout. If you have a very old two-handle faucet, it may be a compression-type rather than a cartridge.
