How To Replace Cartridge On American Standard Bathroom Faucet

How to Replace a Cartridge on an American Standard Bathroom Faucet

Leaking or malfunctioning faucets can be a major annoyance, but they're relatively easy to fix with a few simple tools and a new cartridge. Replacing the cartridge on an American Standard bathroom faucet is a straightforward process that can be completed in under an hour. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get the job done: ### Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials Before you start, you'll need to gather the following tools and materials: * Adjustable wrench * Phillips head screwdriver * Flat head screwdriver * New cartridge (matching your faucet model) * Plumber's grease (optional) ### Step 2: Turn Off the Water Supply The first step is to turn off the water supply to your faucet. There will be two shut-off valves located under the sink, one for hot water and one for cold water. Turn both valves clockwise until they are fully closed. ### Step 3: Remove the Handle Once the water supply is turned off, you can remove the handle from the faucet. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to unscrew the screw that is holding the handle in place. Once the screw is removed, pull the handle straight up to detach it from the faucet body. ### Step 4: Remove the Escutcheon Plate Behind the handle, you will see an escutcheon plate, which is a decorative cover that hides the cartridge. Use a flat head screwdriver to gently pry the escutcheon plate off the faucet body. Be careful not to damage the plate or the faucet. ### Step 5: Remove the Cartridge Once the escutcheon plate is removed, you will have access to the cartridge. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the cartridge retainer nut. Once the nut is loose, you can use your fingers to remove the cartridge from the faucet body. ### Step 6: Install the New Cartridge Take the new cartridge and apply a small amount of plumber's grease to the O-rings. Align the new cartridge with the faucet body and push it into place. Hand-tighten the cartridge retainer nut until it is snug. Use the adjustable wrench to tighten the nut another quarter turn. ### Step 7: Reassemble the Faucet Reassemble the faucet by placing the escutcheon plate back over the cartridge and securing it with the flat head screwdriver. Replace the handle and tighten the screw with the Phillips head screwdriver. ### Step 8: Turn on the Water Supply Turn on the water supply valves under the sink. Check for any leaks around the faucet. If there are no leaks, your faucet is now repaired and ready to use.