How to Clean a Single-Handle Faucet Cartridge | Step-by-Step Guide

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How to Clean a Single-Handle Faucet Cartridge

Your kitchen faucet is one of the most used appliances in your home, so it’s important to keep it clean and functioning properly. One of the most important parts of a faucet is the cartridge, which is responsible for controlling the flow of water. If your faucet is starting to leak or isn’t working properly, it’s likely that the cartridge needs to be cleaned.

Cleaning a single-handle faucet cartridge is a relatively simple task that can be completed in just a few minutes. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step.

What You’ll Need

  • A screwdriver
  • A bucket
  • A rag
  • A putty knife
  • A plumber’s wrench
  • Penetrating oil (optional)

Steps

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the faucet handle by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place.
3. Use a putty knife to pry off the decorative cap that covers the cartridge.
4. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the cartridge in place.
5. Remove the cartridge and soak it in a bucket of hot, soapy water.
6. Use a rag to clean the inside of the faucet body.
7. Reinstall the cartridge and replace the decorative cap.
8. Turn the water supply back on and test the faucet.

Tips

  • If the cartridge is stuck, you can try using a penetrating oil to loosen it.
  • Be careful not to damage the cartridge when you’re cleaning it.
  • Make sure to reinstall the cartridge in the correct orientation.
  • Test the faucet to make sure it’s working properly before you turn the water supply back on.

    | Step | Task | Tools |

|—|—|—|
| 1 | Turn off the water supply to the faucet. | Adjustable wrench |
| 2 | Remove the handle of the faucet. | Screwdriver |
| 3 | Remove the cartridge from the faucet body. | Pliers |
| 4 | Clean the cartridge with a toothbrush and warm, soapy water. | Toothbrush |
| 5 | Rinse the cartridge thoroughly with water. | |
| 6 | Reinstall the cartridge in the faucet body. | |
| 7 | Turn on the water supply to the faucet. | |

1. Identifying the Cartridge

What is a faucet cartridge?

A faucet cartridge is a small, cylindrical valve that controls the flow of water through a faucet. It is located in the body of the faucet, behind the handle. Faucet cartridges come in a variety of sizes and types, but they all perform the same basic function.

How to identify the cartridge type

The first step to cleaning a faucet cartridge is to identify the type of cartridge you have. There are two main types of faucet cartridges: compression cartridges and ceramic disc cartridges.

  • Compression cartridges are the most common type of faucet cartridge. They are made of a rubber or plastic washer that is compressed to create a seal and stop the flow of water.
  • Ceramic disc cartridges are a newer type of faucet cartridge that are more durable and longer-lasting than compression cartridges. They are made of two ceramic discs that rub against each other to create a seal and stop the flow of water.

To identify the type of cartridge you have, look for the following markings on the cartridge:

  • Compression cartridges will have a rubber or plastic washer.
  • Ceramic disc cartridges will have two ceramic discs.

If you cannot find any markings on the cartridge, you can try to remove the cartridge and look at it more closely. Compression cartridges are usually made of a single piece of material, while ceramic disc cartridges are made of two separate pieces.

Where is the cartridge located?

The faucet cartridge is located in the body of the faucet, behind the handle. To access the cartridge, you will need to remove the handle. The steps for removing the handle will vary depending on the type of faucet you have.

2. Removing the Cartridge

How to turn off the water supply

Before you can remove the cartridge, you need to turn off the water supply to the faucet. This will prevent water from spilling out when you remove the cartridge. To turn off the water supply, follow these steps:

1. Find the shut-off valve for the faucet. The shut-off valve is usually located near the faucet, on the hot and cold water supply lines.
2. Turn the shut-off valve clockwise until it is completely closed.

How to remove the handle

Once you have turned off the water supply, you can remove the handle. The steps for removing the handle will vary depending on the type of faucet you have.

  • For a single-handle faucet:

1. Remove the decorative cap from the handle. The decorative cap is usually located at the top of the handle.
2. Use a screwdriver to loosen the screw that holds the handle in place.
3. Pull the handle straight up to remove it.

  • For a double-handle faucet:

1. Remove the decorative caps from both handles.
2. Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold the handles in place.
3. Pull the handles straight up to remove them.

How to remove the cartridge

Once you have removed the handle, you can access the cartridge. The steps for removing the cartridge will vary depending on the type of cartridge you have.

  • For a compression cartridge:

1. Use a pair of pliers to grip the cartridge and turn it counterclockwise.
2. Continue turning the cartridge until it comes loose and you can remove it.

  • For a ceramic disc cartridge:

1. Use a flathead screwdriver to pry up the retaining clip.
2. Remove the retaining clip.
3. Pull the cartridge straight up to remove it.

Cleaning a faucet cartridge is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can keep your faucets working properly and prevent leaks.

3. Cleaning the Cartridge

What materials are needed?

To clean your single-handle faucet cartridge, you will need the following materials:

  • A flathead screwdriver
  • A Phillips head screwdriver
  • A clean rag
  • A bucket of warm water
  • A bottle of descaling solution (optional)

How to clean the cartridge

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the faucet handle by unscrewing the set screws on the back of the handle.
3. Remove the cartridge by unscrewing the retaining nut on the bottom of the faucet.
4. Place the cartridge in a bucket of warm water and add a descaling solution, if desired.
5. Let the cartridge soak for at least 30 minutes.
6. Use the flathead screwdriver to remove any mineral deposits from the cartridge.
7. Rinse the cartridge thoroughly with warm water.
8. Reassemble the faucet.
9. Turn on the water supply to the faucet and test the faucet to make sure it is working properly.

4. Installing the Cartridge

How to install the cartridge

1. Place the cartridge in the faucet body.
2. Screw the retaining nut onto the bottom of the faucet.
3. Screw the faucet handle back onto the faucet body.
4. Turn on the water supply to the faucet and test the faucet to make sure it is working properly.

How to turn on the water supply

To turn on the water supply to your faucet, follow these steps:

1. Locate the water supply shutoff valve.
2. Turn the valve clockwise to open the water supply.

To turn off the water supply to your faucet, follow these steps:

1. Locate the water supply shutoff valve.
2. Turn the valve counterclockwise to close the water supply.

How do I clean a single handle faucet cartridge?

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet. This is usually located under the sink.
2. Remove the handle of the faucet. There may be a screw or a clip holding it in place.
3. Locate the cartridge. It is a small, cylindrical part that is usually located in the center of the faucet.
4. Remove the cartridge by unscrewing it or prying it out with a flathead screwdriver.
5. Clean the cartridge with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. Be sure to remove any sediment or mineral deposits.
6. Rinse the cartridge thoroughly with water.
7. Reassemble the faucet.
8. Turn on the water supply to the faucet and test it to make sure it is working properly.

What are the signs that a single handle faucet cartridge needs to be cleaned?

  • The faucet is dripping even when it is turned off.
  • The faucet is difficult to turn on or off.
  • The water pressure is low.
  • The water is coming out in spurts.

What are the different types of single handle faucet cartridges?

There are two main types of single handle faucet cartridges: ceramic and metal. Ceramic cartridges are made of two ceramic discs that rub against each other to create a seal. Metal cartridges are made of a metal alloy that is coated with a rubber seal.

**How do I know which type of single handle faucet cartridge I have?

You can usually tell what type of cartridge you have by looking at the faucet. Ceramic cartridges are usually white or beige, while metal cartridges are usually silver or gold. You can also check the manufacturer’s instructions or the product label.

**Can I clean a single handle faucet cartridge without removing it?

It is possible to clean a single handle faucet cartridge without removing it, but it is more difficult and less effective. To clean the cartridge without removing it, you will need to use a long, thin brush to reach inside the faucet. You will also need to be careful not to damage the cartridge.

**What are the risks of not cleaning a single handle faucet cartridge?

If you do not clean your single handle faucet cartridge regularly, it can become clogged with sediment and mineral deposits. This can lead to a number of problems, including:

  • Dripping faucet
  • Low water pressure
  • Difficulty turning the faucet on or off
  • Damage to the faucet

**How often should I clean my single handle faucet cartridge?

The frequency with which you should clean your single handle faucet cartridge depends on the type of water you have. If you have hard water, you will need to clean the cartridge more often than if you have soft water. A good rule of thumb is to clean the cartridge every six months or so.

What are some other tips for maintaining my single handle faucet?

  • Be sure to turn off the water supply to the faucet before you start cleaning it.
  • Use a soft cloth or brush to clean the faucet.
  • Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the faucet.
  • Rinse the faucet thoroughly after cleaning it.
  • Dry the faucet with a soft cloth to prevent water spots.

    cleaning a single-handle faucet cartridge is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can keep your faucet working properly and prevent any unnecessary wear and tear.

Here are a few key takeaways to remember:

  • The first step is to turn off the water supply to the faucet.
  • Next, remove the handle by unscrewing the setscrew.
  • Once the handle is removed, you will be able to access the cartridge.
  • Use a small brush to clean the cartridge, being sure to remove any debris or sediment.
  • Reassemble the faucet and turn the water back on.

By following these steps, you can keep your single-handle faucet working properly for years to come.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.