How a cartridge faucet works
Older faucets used rubber washers pressed against a seat. Most faucets installed in newer homes use a cartridge instead: a sealed insert with ceramic discs or a plastic spool that lines up openings to mix hot and cold. Moving the handle rotates or lifts the cartridge.
Cartridges last a long time, but they are not permanent. Mineral deposits from hard water roughen the sealing surfaces, O-rings dry out, and debris from plumbing work can lodge inside. The result is a drip from the spout, a leak around the handle, a stiff lever, or water that will not mix to the right temperature.
Symptom, likely cause
| Symptom | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Steady drip from spout | Worn cartridge seals or discs |
| Water around the base or handle | Failed O-rings on the cartridge or spout |
| Handle hard to move | Mineral buildup on the cartridge |
| Low flow from one faucet only | Clogged aerator or debris in the cartridge |
| Hot and cold not mixing evenly | Cartridge wear or a pressure imbalance |
Before anyone opens the faucet
Close the stops
Turn off the hot and cold stops under the sink and open the faucet to drain pressure.
Identify the brand
Look for a logo on the faucet, under the handle cap, or on the original box or paperwork.
Check the aerator
Unscrew the aerator and rinse out scale. This alone can fix low flow.
Photograph the faucet
A clear photo helps a plumber match the cartridge before arriving.
Replace the cartridge or the whole faucet
New cartridge
- Good fit when the faucet body is sound
- Needs the exact cartridge for that model
- Keeps the matching finish in a remodeled kitchen or bath
- Quick once the right part is in hand
New faucet
- Makes sense when parts are hard to get
- Good choice if the body is cracked or corroded
- Chance to change style or add features
- Usually also a chance to replace worn supply lines and stops
What drives the cost
- Part availability
- Common cartridges may be stocked; others need ordering.
- Access
- Tight vanities and undermount sinks take longer to work under.
- Supply lines and stops
- Worn lines and stuck stops are often replaced at the same time.
- Fixture choice
- If replacing, the faucet you choose sets much of the cost.
Questions to ask
- Can you identify the faucet brand and cartridge from photos?
- Is a cartridge replacement enough, or is the faucet body damaged?
- Should the supply lines and stops be replaced while you are there?
- Is scale the cause, and would water treatment help?
Common questions
Is a dripping faucet urgent?
Not usually, but drips waste water and add to bills. Fix it soon, and close the stops if it gets worse.
Do all cartridges fit all faucets?
No. Cartridges are specific to brand and model. Bring the old one or a photo when buying.
Why does the drip come back after a repair?
A generic part that does not quite fit, leftover scale, or high house pressure can shorten a repair. Ask the plumber to check pressure too.
General information for Amerige Heights, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.