How to Install a Faucet Cartridge (Step-by-Step Guide)

AvatarByLiana Farrell Faucet Queries

How to Install a Faucet Cartridge

Your faucet is one of the most important fixtures in your home, and it’s important to keep it in good working order. If your faucet is leaking or not working properly, it may be time to replace the cartridge. A faucet cartridge is a small, cylindrical device that contains the valves that control the flow of water through the faucet. Replacing a faucet cartridge is a relatively simple task that can be completed in just a few minutes.

In this article, we will walk you through the steps of how to install a faucet cartridge. We will provide detailed instructions and images to help you along the way. By the end of this article, you will be able to replace a faucet cartridge like a pro!

Step Tools Instructions
1 Pliers Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2 Adjustable wrench Loosen the packing nut under the handle with the adjustable wrench.
3 Screwdriver Remove the handle by unscrewing it with the screwdriver.
4 Pliers Grip the cartridge with the pliers and turn it counterclockwise to remove it.
5 New cartridge Insert the new cartridge into the faucet body and turn it clockwise to tighten it.
6 Handle Screw the handle back onto the faucet body.
7 Packing nut Tighten the packing nut under the handle with the adjustable wrench.
8 Water supply Turn on the water supply to the faucet.

A faucet cartridge is a small, cylindrical device that controls the flow of water through a faucet. It is located inside the faucet body and is typically made of plastic or metal. Faucet cartridges can wear out over time, which can lead to a number of problems, such as dripping faucets, low water pressure, and difficulty turning the faucet on or off. If you are experiencing any of these problems, it is likely that your faucet cartridge needs to be replaced.

Replacing a faucet cartridge is a relatively simple task that can be completed in just a few minutes. However, it is important to follow the steps carefully in order to avoid damaging the faucet.

Tools and materials

The following tools and materials are required to replace a faucet cartridge:

  • Faucet wrench
  • Penetrating oil
  • Replacement cartridge
  • New O-rings (if necessary)
  • Tape measure
  • Level
  • Pencil

Step 1: Shut off the water supply to the faucet

The first step is to shut off the water supply to the faucet. This can be done by turning the shut-off valve clockwise to the “off” position. Allow any remaining water to drain from the faucet.

Step 2: Remove the old cartridge

Once the water supply is shut off, you can begin to remove the old cartridge. The following steps will walk you through the process:

1. Locate the cartridge housing. The cartridge housing is typically located behind the faucet handle. It is a cylindrical-shaped object that is screwed into the faucet body.
2. Remove the faucet handle. To do this, you will need to use a faucet wrench to loosen the setscrews that secure the handle to the faucet body. Once the setscrews are loosened, you can remove the handle.
3. Access the cartridge. Once the handle is removed, you will be able to access the cartridge housing. The cartridge housing is typically held in place by a retaining clip. To remove the retaining clip, you will need to use a flathead screwdriver to pry it up.
4. Remove the cartridge. Once the retaining clip is removed, you can remove the cartridge. To do this, you will need to grip the cartridge with your fingers and twist it counterclockwise. The cartridge should come out easily.

Step 3: Install the new cartridge

Installing the new cartridge is the reverse of removing the old cartridge. The following steps will walk you through the process:

1. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the threads of the new cartridge. This will help to make it easier to install the cartridge.
2. Insert the new cartridge into the cartridge housing. Make sure that the cartridge is properly aligned with the threads of the housing.
3. Secure the cartridge with the retaining clip. To do this, you will need to use a flathead screwdriver to pry the retaining clip down.
4. Replace the faucet handle. To do this, you will need to use a faucet wrench to tighten the setscrews that secure the handle to the faucet body.

Step 4: Turn on the water supply to the faucet

Once the new cartridge is installed, you can turn on the water supply to the faucet. Allow any remaining air to drain from the faucet.

Step 5: Test the faucet

Turn the faucet on and off to test it. The faucet should work properly without any leaks.

Replacing a faucet cartridge is a relatively simple task that can be completed in just a few minutes. By following the steps in this guide, you can easily replace your faucet cartridge and restore your faucet to working order.

How To Install Faucet Cartridge?

Installing a faucet cartridge is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. However, it is important to follow the steps carefully to ensure that the job is done correctly.

Tools and Materials

To install a faucet cartridge, you will need the following tools and materials:

  • Faucet wrench
  • Penetrating oil
  • New faucet cartridge
  • O-rings
  • Pipe sealant

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the faucet handle.
3. Remove the old cartridge.
4. Install the new cartridge.
5. Apply pipe sealant to the threads of the new cartridge.
6. Reinstall the faucet handle.
7. Turn on the water supply to the faucet.

Step 1: Turn off the water supply to the faucet

The first step is to turn off the water supply to the faucet. This can be done by turning the shut-off valve located under the sink.

Step 2: Remove the faucet handle

The next step is to remove the faucet handle. This is usually done by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place.

Step 3: Remove the old cartridge

Once the faucet handle is removed, you can access the old cartridge. The cartridge is usually held in place by a retaining nut. Use the faucet wrench to loosen the retaining nut and remove the old cartridge.

Step 4: Install the new cartridge

The next step is to install the new cartridge. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the threads of the new cartridge. This will help to make it easier to install. Insert the new cartridge into the faucet body and tighten the retaining nut until it is snug.

Step 5: Apply pipe sealant to the threads of the new cartridge

Once the cartridge is installed, apply a small amount of pipe sealant to the threads. This will help to prevent leaks.

Step 6: Reinstall the faucet handle

The final step is to reinstall the faucet handle. Make sure that the screws are tight enough to hold the handle in place.

Step 7: Turn on the water supply to the faucet

The final step is to turn on the water supply to the faucet. Check for leaks around the faucet handle and cartridge. If you see any leaks, tighten the screws or apply more pipe sealant.

Installing a faucet cartridge is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. However, it is important to follow the steps carefully to ensure that the job is done correctly. By following these steps, you can easily replace a faulty faucet cartridge and restore your faucet to working order.

How do I remove a faucet cartridge?

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Locate the cartridge housing. It is typically located behind the spout or handle.
3. Remove the screws that hold the cartridge housing in place.
4. Pull the cartridge housing out of the faucet.
5. Remove the old cartridge from the housing.
6. Insert the new cartridge into the housing.
7. Replace the cartridge housing and tighten the screws.
8. Turn on the water supply to the faucet.

What tools do I need to install a faucet cartridge?

You will need the following tools to install a faucet cartridge:

  • A screwdriver
  • A wrench
  • Penetrating oil

How long does it take to install a faucet cartridge?

The installation of a faucet cartridge typically takes about 15 minutes.

What is the difference between a ceramic and a rubber faucet cartridge?

Ceramic cartridges are more durable than rubber cartridges and are less likely to leak. However, they are also more expensive. Rubber cartridges are less expensive than ceramic cartridges, but they are more prone to leaks.

Can I install a faucet cartridge myself?

Yes, you can install a faucet cartridge yourself. However, if you are not comfortable working with plumbing, you may want to hire a professional to do the job.

What are the common problems with faucet cartridges?

The most common problems with faucet cartridges are leaks and clogging. Leaks can occur when the cartridge is worn out or damaged. Clogging can occur when debris builds up in the cartridge.

How can I prevent problems with my faucet cartridge?

You can prevent problems with your faucet cartridge by:

  • Replacing the cartridge regularly (every 5-10 years).
  • Cleaning the cartridge regularly (every 6 months).
  • Turning off the water supply to the faucet when not in use.

    In this blog post, we have discussed how to install a faucet cartridge. We have covered the different types of faucet cartridges, the tools and materials you will need, and the steps involved in the installation process. We hope that this information has been helpful and that you are now able to install a faucet cartridge with confidence.

Here are some key takeaways from this blog post:

  • There are two main types of faucet cartridges: single-handle and two-handle.
  • The tools and materials you will need for the installation process will vary depending on the type of faucet cartridge you are installing.
  • The steps involved in the installation process will also vary depending on the type of faucet cartridge you are installing.
  • It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when installing a faucet cartridge.
  • If you are not comfortable with the installation process, it is best to hire a professional plumber to do the job for you.

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.