How to Replace a Faucet Cartridge

A faucet cartridge lasts for years but eventually needs to be replaced. The metal part of the cartridge becomes corroded and covered in hard water mineral deposits. As a result, it no longer functions as it should, causing water leaks or clogged handles. Fortunately, you can save money and time by replacing both your faucet cartridge and its housing. In addition, you'll save yourself from hassles like finding the right replacement parts, as well as the hassle of installing and removing it yourself.

The first step is to remove the handle and turn off the faucet. Then, remove the cartridge and place it in a bucket of clean water. To remove the handle, simply twist the stem of the cartridge. Tighten the cartridge until you feel resistance. Don't overtighten it because this can damage the faucet. If the handles are still turning, it's likely that the cartridge is not properly installed. Then, you'll need to replace the cartridge.

If you have a leaking faucet, you'll need a new cartridge and handle. The cartridges are relatively inexpensive, and easy to replace if they break. To replace the faucet, the cartridge has to be cleaned. You can use a special tool that can remove mineral deposits from the valve. Then, you should check the seal of the faucet with the new one. Once the seal has been tightened, you can replace the handle of the faucet.

The best cartridges are made with ceramic discs. These discs are made from a high-grade ceramic material. These ceramic discs are the most susceptible to wear and damage. Despite the fact that they are made of durable plastic, most of these types of cartridges can break easily. While you may think they're invincible, these discs need to be replaced often to prevent your faucet from leaking.

A faucet cartridge's main parts are its stem and the valve seats. A faucet cartridge is made of two different materials: plastic and metal. A cartridge's stem is the most sensitive component, and it should be durable. A good-quality one has a plastic stem and brass or stainless steel housing. A cheap one has plastic splines, which can break or crack if they're not seated correctly. Then, the handle is not compatible with the ceramic disk and the stem.

The stem and the discs of a faucet cartridge are the most vulnerable to wear and tear. To prevent this, choose a sturdy and long-lasting cartridge. Ideally, the cartridge's stem is made of stainless steel, but it's possible that it's made of aluminum. If you're using a non-metal stem, you should carefully remove it from the faucet. After removing the cartridge, you should look for any cracks in the metal.