Two Handle Faucet Repair (Part 2) - Cartridge Repair

Interplay Learning: Two Handle Faucet Repair (Part 2) - Cartridge Repair

Introduction to Cartridge Repair

In the second half of the two handle faucet repair tutorial, the focus shifts to repairing the faucet cartridge. A failed cartridge can be diagnosed relatively easily through observable symptoms, primarily water dripping from the spout or leaking from the base of one or both handles, which typically indicates that the cartridge is worn and requires replacement.

Diagnosing a Failed Cartridge

Symptoms of Cartridge Failure
  • Water Dripping from Spout: This is a classic indicator of a failing cartridge.
  • Leaks from Base of Handles: This is another sign of cartridge failure.
Assessing the Temperature of Dripping Water
  • The temperature of the water can help identify which cartridge has failed:
    • Warm Water: If warm water is dripping, it is likely that only the cartridge on the hot side needs replacement.
    • Recommendation: It is generally advisable to replace both cartridges to prevent future failures, as the other cartridge may also be nearing the end of its life.

Preparatory Steps for Repair

Turning Off Water Supply
  • Water Shut Off: Before beginning any repairs, it is essential to turn off the water supply to the faucet.
    • In properly installed plumbing, there should be individual shut off valves located under the sink that allow for this without affecting the entire house.
Relieving Faucet Pressure
  • Open Faucet: After shutting off the water supply, turn on the faucet to relieve any residual pressure.

Removing the Faucet Handles

Tools Required
  • Hex Key: A small hex key is commonly used to loosen the set screw on the handle.
Steps to Remove Handles
  1. Loosen Set Screws: Turn the set screws counterclockwise a few times until the handles are freed.
  2. Handle Sticking Issue: If the handle is difficult to remove:
    • Use Penetrating Oil: Apply some penetrating oil into the screw hole to assist in loosening the handle.
    • Wiggle and Pull: Wiggle the handle while pulling upwards to detach it gently without damage.

Accessing the Cartridge

Handle Assembly Considerations
  • In some cases, handle assemblies may contain an additional component, such as a spline sleeve, that may need removal to access the cartridge.
    • Phillips Screw: Remove the Phillips screw holding the spline sleeve to expose the cartridge.
Removing the Bonnet Nut
  • Bonnet Nut Function: This nut secures the cartridge and needs to be removed using a wrench (6 or 8-inch adjustable wrench).

Extracting the Cartridge

Steps to Remove Cartridge
  • Using Pliers: Grab the top of the cartridge with a small pair of pliers and gently pull upwards while wiggling to facilitate removal.
  • Persistent Cartridges: If the cartridge is difficult to extract:
    • Reinstall Phillips Screw: Temporarily reinstall the screw to gain additional leverage for removal.
Inspection of Cartridge
  • After removal, inspect the cartridge for the following issues:
    • Presence of rust-colored stains indicating degradation.
    • Any signs of cracked or worn rubber seals.
  • Conclusion: If any issues are found, the cartridge should be replaced.

Finding a Replacement Cartridge

Challenges in Finding Parts
  • Identifying Faucet Make and Age: Knowledge of the faucet's brand and approximate age can assist in locating the correct replacement.
  • Taking the Cartridge to Supply House: If difficulties arise in describing the cartridge, it may be necessary to take it to a plumbing supply store for a match.
  • Pre-purchase: Ideally, having the replacement cartridge on hand before beginning the repair is the best scenario.

Installing the New Cartridge

Preparation of Valve Body
  • Cleaning the Valve Body: Ensure that the valve body is clean and free from debris before installing the new cartridge.
Lubrication of New Cartridge
  • Applying Faucet Grease: Before installation, it is vital to lubricate the new cartridge, particularly the o-ring, using faucet grease to ensure a proper seal.
Inserting the New Cartridge
  • Orientation: When inserting the new cartridge, most faucets use the same cartridge for both sides, so the order of installation (hot or cold) does not matter.
  • Fitting Tabs: Align the tabs on the cartridge with the notches in the valve body for proper installation.

Reassembling the Faucet

Installing the Bonnet Nut
  • After installing the cartridge, secure it with the bonnet nut.
Reinstalling the Handle Assembly
  1. Spline Adapter: Pay attention to the stops on the spline adapter, which regulate the rotation of the handle; for most setups, it allows for 90 degrees of movement between on and off positions.
  2. Phillips Screw: Secure the spline adapter with its Phillips screw.
  3. Final Handle Assembly: Slide the handle over the spline adapter and verify that the handle points outward (off) and towards you (on) correctly.
  4. Set Screw: Reinstall the handle set screw to secure it in place.

Testing the Repair

Restoring Water Supply
  • Turning Water Back On: After reassembly, restore the water supply.
Checking for Leaks
  • Test Faucet Function: Turn the faucet on and off a couple of times to ensure proper function and check for any leaks.

Conclusion

By following these methods and using appropriate parts, replacing faucet cartridges is a straightforward task that effectively eliminates annoying drips and prolongs the lifetime of the faucet.