Replacing Faucet Cartridges

Removing the Handle

Turn the water off at the stop valve and stuff a rag into any drain without a stopper so you don't lose small parts down the pipe. Each faucet will have a different kind of handle, but most are held in place with a screw on top so simply remove it. Some faucet handles use a recessed screw, so loosen these with a hex wrench.

Removing the Retaining Nut

Remove the retaining nut, in most cases, with channel-type pliers. If the nut is recessed, you may need needle-nose pliers. In some cases, there is a sleeve that must be removed along with 3 screws.

Removing and Replacing the Cartridges

Pull the cartridge straight up using pliers while noting in which direction the cartridge is oriented. Next, insert the replacement cartridge by applying lubrication (such as grease) to both the valve seat and the O-rings. Place the replacement cartridge in the correct orientation, with the tabs fixed into the slotted body of the faucet.

Attaching the Handles

Reattach the retaining nut and screw the handles back on. Turn the water on to see if the new cartridge works. If the faucet does not work, the most likely problem is that the cartridge is facing in the wrong direction. Take these steps to remove the cartridge and make sure the tabs fit securely into the slots on the valve body.