Remove Retaining Nut and Old Cartridge — Remove the Cap and Ball Assembly
Part of project
How to Fix a Leaky Single-Handle Faucet (Ball-Valve Type) · Step 3 of 6
In this video
With the handle removed, use channel-lock pliers or an adjustable wrench to grip the brass retaining nut that secures the cartridge. Turn the nut counter-clockwise to unscrew and remove it. Next, grip the top of the white plastic cartridge with the pliers and pull it straight up and out of the faucet body.
Goal: Remove the old faucet cartridge
- If the cartridge is stuck due to mineral buildup, you may need to gently wiggle it back and forth with the pliers to loosen it.
Used in this video
- Channel-Lock Pliers (Pliers_Type: Channel-Lock) — To unscrew the retaining nut and to grip and pull out the old faucet cartridge.
138K subscribers
FAQs
How can I tell if my single-handle faucet is a ball-valve type before buying a repair kit?
Ball-valve faucets typically have a single handle that pivots and rotates on top of a dome-shaped cap. When you remove the handle, you'll usually see a cap secured by screws, covering a plastic or metal ball. If your faucet has a cartridge (a cylinder with O-rings) or two separate handles, it's a different type and requires a different repair kit.
Do I really need all the specific tools listed, or can I use alternatives for this repair?
While the listed tools are ideal, the most crucial are an adjustable wrench, various screwdrivers (especially a flathead for prying), and a hex key if your handle has a set screw. A good pair of pliers is also very helpful. You might be able to substitute some specialty tools with basic equivalents, but ensuring you have the right sizes will prevent frustration and potential damage.
What are the most important safety precautions I should take before starting this project?
The absolute most critical step is to shut off the water supply to the faucet, either at the supply lines underneath the sink or the main house shut-off. Always double-check by turning on the faucet. Also, protect your work area with rags or towels to catch any residual water, and wear gloves if handling old, potentially corroded parts.
How much does a typical faucet repair kit cost, and is 2 hours a realistic timeframe for a beginner?
A standard ball-valve faucet repair kit usually costs between $5 and $20, making it a very affordable repair. For a beginner, 2 hours is a reasonable estimate, but allow yourself extra time, perhaps 3-4 hours, for unexpected challenges like stuck parts or identifying the correct repair kit. Rushing can lead to mistakes or damage.
Remove Retaining Nut and Old Cartridge — Remove the Cap and Ball Assembly
Part of project
How to Fix a Leaky Single-Handle Faucet (Ball-Valve Type) · Step 3 of 6
In this video
With the handle removed, use channel-lock pliers or an adjustable wrench to grip the brass retaining nut that secures the cartridge. Turn the nut counter-clockwise to unscrew and remove it. Next, grip the top of the white plastic cartridge with the pliers and pull it straight up and out of the faucet body.
Goal: Remove the old faucet cartridge
- If the cartridge is stuck due to mineral buildup, you may need to gently wiggle it back and forth with the pliers to loosen it.
Used in this video
- Channel-Lock Pliers (Pliers_Type: Channel-Lock) — To unscrew the retaining nut and to grip and pull out the old faucet cartridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my single-handle faucet is a ball-valve type before buying a repair kit?
Ball-valve faucets typically have a single handle that pivots and rotates on top of a dome-shaped cap. When you remove the handle, you'll usually see a cap secured by screws, covering a plastic or metal ball. If your faucet has a cartridge (a cylinder with O-rings) or two separate handles, it's a different type and requires a different repair kit.
Do I really need all the specific tools listed, or can I use alternatives for this repair?
While the listed tools are ideal, the most crucial are an adjustable wrench, various screwdrivers (especially a flathead for prying), and a hex key if your handle has a set screw. A good pair of pliers is also very helpful. You might be able to substitute some specialty tools with basic equivalents, but ensuring you have the right sizes will prevent frustration and potential damage.
What are the most important safety precautions I should take before starting this project?
The absolute most critical step is to shut off the water supply to the faucet, either at the supply lines underneath the sink or the main house shut-off. Always double-check by turning on the faucet. Also, protect your work area with rags or towels to catch any residual water, and wear gloves if handling old, potentially corroded parts.
How much does a typical faucet repair kit cost, and is 2 hours a realistic timeframe for a beginner?
A standard ball-valve faucet repair kit usually costs between $5 and $20, making it a very affordable repair. For a beginner, 2 hours is a reasonable estimate, but allow yourself extra time, perhaps 3-4 hours, for unexpected challenges like stuck parts or identifying the correct repair kit. Rushing can lead to mistakes or damage.