Remove and Inspect the Old Cartridge — Clean Faucet Body and Purchase Replacement Part
Part of project
How to Stop a Dripping Two-Handle Bathroom Faucet · Step 5 of 8
In this video
As a final method, remove the old cartridge for inspection. First, turn off the main water supply to the shower. Use a hex wrench to loosen the set screw on the faucet handle and remove the handle. Slide off any sleeves or covers. Use pliers to carefully pull out the cartridge retaining clip. You may need to turn a bonnet cap counter-clockwise to release the cartridge. Once removed, inspect the cartridge for any serial numbers. It's recommended to take the old cartridge to a plumbing store for a precise match. Measuring it with a caliper and taking a photo can also be helpful.
Goal: Inspect Old Cartridge
- Ensure the main water supply to the shower is turned off before starting.
- Measure the old cartridge with a caliper and take a photo to make matching it at the store easier.
Used in this video
- Hex Wrench (Tool Type: Hand Tools, Power Source: Manual, Allen Wrench/Hex Key Size: Various sizes) — To loosen the set screw on the faucet handle.
- Pliers (Tool Type: Hand tools, Power Source: Manual, Pliers Type: Needle-nose, Slip-joint) — To pull out the cartridge retaining clip.
- Caliper (Tool Type: Measuring Tools, Power Source: Manual, Measuring Tool: Caliper) · optional — To precisely measure the old cartridge for matching.
- Camera/Phone (Tool Type: Electrical Tools, Power Source: Battery) · optional — To take a photo of the old cartridge for identification at a store.
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FAQs
What essential tools do I truly need for this faucet repair, beyond the specialized items listed?
You'll primarily need screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips), an adjustable wrench, and possibly slip-joint or tongue-and-groove pliers for stubborn nuts. A bucket and old towels are essential for catching water. The specific brands mentioned are examples, not strict requirements.
How long should a beginner expect this project to take, and what's the average cost for parts?
For a beginner, this project typically takes 1-2 hours, including water shut-off and cleanup. The main cost is the replacement cartridge, which usually ranges from $10-$30 depending on your faucet's brand and model. It's a cost-effective alternative to calling a plumber.
What's the most common reason a two-handle faucet drips, and how can I ensure I buy the correct replacement cartridge?
A worn-out internal cartridge or O-rings are almost always the cause of a dripping faucet. To get the right replacement, identify your faucet's brand and model (often stamped on the faucet body) and take the old cartridge with you to the store for a direct comparison.
What crucial safety precautions should I take before attempting to fix my dripping faucet?
Always shut off the hot and cold water supply valves under the sink before starting to prevent leaks and potential flooding. Place a bucket under the faucet and have plenty of old towels on hand to manage any residual water in the lines.
Remove and Inspect the Old Cartridge — Clean Faucet Body and Purchase Replacement Part
Part of project
How to Stop a Dripping Two-Handle Bathroom Faucet · Step 5 of 8
In this video
As a final method, remove the old cartridge for inspection. First, turn off the main water supply to the shower. Use a hex wrench to loosen the set screw on the faucet handle and remove the handle. Slide off any sleeves or covers. Use pliers to carefully pull out the cartridge retaining clip. You may need to turn a bonnet cap counter-clockwise to release the cartridge. Once removed, inspect the cartridge for any serial numbers. It's recommended to take the old cartridge to a plumbing store for a precise match. Measuring it with a caliper and taking a photo can also be helpful.
Goal: Inspect Old Cartridge
- Ensure the main water supply to the shower is turned off before starting.
- Measure the old cartridge with a caliper and take a photo to make matching it at the store easier.
Used in this video
- Hex Wrench (Tool Type: Hand Tools, Power Source: Manual, Allen Wrench/Hex Key Size: Various sizes) — To loosen the set screw on the faucet handle.
- Pliers (Tool Type: Hand tools, Power Source: Manual, Pliers Type: Needle-nose, Slip-joint) — To pull out the cartridge retaining clip.
- Caliper (Tool Type: Measuring Tools, Power Source: Manual, Measuring Tool: Caliper) · optional — To precisely measure the old cartridge for matching.
- Camera/Phone (Tool Type: Electrical Tools, Power Source: Battery) · optional — To take a photo of the old cartridge for identification at a store.
Frequently Asked Questions
What essential tools do I truly need for this faucet repair, beyond the specialized items listed?
You'll primarily need screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips), an adjustable wrench, and possibly slip-joint or tongue-and-groove pliers for stubborn nuts. A bucket and old towels are essential for catching water. The specific brands mentioned are examples, not strict requirements.
How long should a beginner expect this project to take, and what's the average cost for parts?
For a beginner, this project typically takes 1-2 hours, including water shut-off and cleanup. The main cost is the replacement cartridge, which usually ranges from $10-$30 depending on your faucet's brand and model. It's a cost-effective alternative to calling a plumber.
What's the most common reason a two-handle faucet drips, and how can I ensure I buy the correct replacement cartridge?
A worn-out internal cartridge or O-rings are almost always the cause of a dripping faucet. To get the right replacement, identify your faucet's brand and model (often stamped on the faucet body) and take the old cartridge with you to the store for a direct comparison.
What crucial safety precautions should I take before attempting to fix my dripping faucet?
Always shut off the hot and cold water supply valves under the sink before starting to prevent leaks and potential flooding. Place a bucket under the faucet and have plenty of old towels on hand to manage any residual water in the lines.