How To Repair One Handle Bathroom Faucet

How to Repair a Single-Handle Bathroom Faucet

Having a leaky or malfunctioning single-handle bathroom faucet can be annoying and lead to water waste. Fortunately, it is often possible to repair these faucets with some basic tools and a little bit of know-how. Here are the essential steps involved:

1. Safety First: Before you start any repairs, it's crucial to turn off the water supply to your faucet. Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to close them completely.

2. Remove the Handle: Most single-handle faucets have a small screw or set screw located on the base of the handle. Use a screwdriver to remove this screw, then gently pull the handle straight up to remove it.

3. Replace the Cartridge: The cartridge is the heart of the faucet and controls the flow of water. To replace it, use a wrench to loosen the packing nut located under the handle. Once the packing nut is loose, pull the cartridge straight up and out of the faucet body.

4. Inspect the Cartridge: Examine the old cartridge for any signs of damage or corrosion. If it is damaged, replace it with a new cartridge designed specifically for your faucet model.

5. Install the New Cartridge: Insert the new cartridge into the faucet body and align it properly. Hand-tighten the packing nut to secure the cartridge.

6. Reassemble the Handle: Place the handle back onto the stem and secure it with the screw or set screw you removed earlier.

7. Test the Faucet: Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. If there are no leaks, your faucet should be repaired and working properly.

Tips:

If your faucet still leaks after replacing the cartridge, the problem may be with the O-rings on the cartridge or the faucet body. Replace any damaged O-rings to eliminate leaks.
If the handle is loose or difficult to turn, tighten the set screw under the handle.
For more complex repairs, it is recommended to consult a qualified plumber.