How To Repair a Leaky Faucet 04

Kitchen And Bathroom Renovation : How To Repair a Leaky Faucet 04

THE PROJECT: Cartridge-type faucet

A cartridge-type faucet (my favorite) uses a plastic or brass cartridge that houses a stem that slides up and down in the handle to control the water fl ow. They’re used in single or double-handled faucets. It’s the simplest of all types to work on because the entire cartridge slips in and out for easy repair or replacement.

1. With the water shut off from the shut-off valves, remove the handle(s). To do this you must locate a screw that is usually hidden beneath a decorative cap. Gently pry the cap off with a metal nail file or flathead screwdriver.

With the screw exposed, unscrew it and lift off the handle.

2. With the handle off, there may be a sleeve, locking nut, and/or retaining clip(s) that need to be removed. Use a wrench or needle-nose pliers to remove the sleeve or nut. Use a fl athead screwdriver or pliers to remove the clip. (Faucets vary, so you may need to work through a bit of a puzzle to remove the cap, handle, nut, clip(s), and so on—be patient!)

3. Pull out the cartridge using pliers, but fi rst look to see if there’s a mark, fl at side, or notch and mentally note its orientation. Pulling out the cartridge may take some patience—wiggle it out little by little. If the cartridge puller won’t budge, see the sidebar “Using a Cartridge Puller”.

4. Examine the O-rings. If the cartridge doesn’t show corrosion, but the O-rings look worn, simply replace the O-rings. Use a flathead screwdriver to pry them off. Put plumber’s grease around the new O-rings and roll them back in place.
5. To replace the cartridge, bring the old one to the store with you for the proper replacement part. Remember to note the brand of faucet. If you have a choice of brass or plastic, opt for brass— although more expensive, it lasts much longer.
6. To insert the new cartridge first recall a mark, fl at side, or notch to indicate orientation. Push the new cartridge in place with your finger. The manufacturer may recommend plumber’s grease.
7. Reassemble the unit—insert the retaining clip(s), locking nut, and so on (if applicable), and then reattach the handle.
8. Turn on the water from the shut-off valve and test the faucet for leaks. If it’s a single-handle control, check to see that hot and cold water work in the proper handle position. If they’re crossed (hot comes out of cold and vice versa), rotate the cartridge 180 degrees.
9. Replace the decorative cap. Finished!