How To Fix Single Handle Bathroom Faucet

How to Fix a Single Handle Bathroom Faucet

A leaky or malfunctioning bathroom faucet can be an annoying and frustrating experience. However, with the right tools and a little bit of know-how, you can fix most single handle bathroom faucets yourself. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Tools You'll Need:

Adjustable wrench
Hex key or Allen wrench
Screwdriver (Phillips or flathead)
Replacement cartridge (if necessary)
Plumber's putty
Towel or rag

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

Before you start working on the faucet, it's important to turn off the water supply. This will prevent any water from leaking out while you're repairing the faucet. To turn off the water supply, locate the two shut-off valves that are usually located under the sink. Turn both valves clockwise until they are fully closed.

Step 2: Remove the Handle

Once the water supply is turned off, you can remove the handle. Most single handle faucets have a small screw that holds the handle in place. Use a screwdriver to remove the screw and then gently pull the handle straight up to remove it.

Step 3: Remove the Cartridge

Once the handle is removed, you will see a cartridge inside the faucet. The cartridge is what controls the flow of water and temperature. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nut that holds the cartridge in place. Once the nut is loose, you can pull the cartridge straight out of the faucet.

Step 4: Inspect the Cartridge and Replace if Necessary

Once the cartridge is removed, inspect it for any damage or wear. If the cartridge is damaged, it will need to be replaced. To replace the cartridge, simply insert the new cartridge into the faucet and tighten the nut to secure it in place.

Step 5: Reassemble the Faucet

Once the cartridge is replaced, you can reassemble the faucet. Start by placing the cartridge back into the faucet and tightening the nut to secure it. Then, place the handle back on the faucet and tighten the screw to secure it. Finally, turn on the water supply and check for any leaks.

Tips:

If you're not sure what type of cartridge your faucet uses, take the old cartridge to a hardware store and ask for a replacement.
If the leak is coming from the base of the faucet, you may need to replace the O-rings.
If you're not comfortable fixing the faucet yourself, call a plumber.

Conclusion

Fixing a single handle bathroom faucet is not difficult if you have the right tools and a little bit of know-how. With the steps outlined above, you can get your faucet back up and running in no time.