Fix a Dripping Faucet (Cartridge)

End the drip by swapping the worn cartridge and renewing the seals—smooth handle, clean shutoff.
Difficulty: Moderate
Success Rate: 80%
Cost: $12 - $40
Estimated Timeline: 30–60m
Turn Off Water: Yes
Find a Local Plumber
Tools Needed:

  • Phillips/flat screwdriver

  • Allen/hex key (for set screw handles)

  • Adjustable wrench or deep socket

  • Needle-nose pliers

  • Utility knife or pick (to lift O-rings)

  • Silicone-safe plumber’s grease

  • Flashlight

Materials / Parts:

  • Replacement cartridge (brand/model specific)

  • New cartridge retaining clip or nut (if included)

  • Spout O-rings or bonnet O-ring (as applicable)

  • Decorative handle cap (optional)

Safety Warnings:

  • Shut off water before removing the cartridge.

  • Protect finishes; use a cloth under tools.

  • Avoid prying against porcelain or thin trim.

Test & Verify:

  • With handle off, confirm no drips at the spout for 2–3 minutes.

  • Cycle hot/cold; ensure smooth travel and even temperature mix.

  • Check around the bonnet/handle for weeping during on/off.

Cleanup & Disposal:

  • Wipe away grease/mineral debris; dry the escutcheon.

  • Dispose of the old cartridge in household trash.

  • Store a photo of the replacement part number for next time.

Pre-Checks:

  • Confirm faucet is a cartridge type (single handle or two-handle cartridges).

  • Identify brand/model; photograph the old cartridge for matching.

  • Test shutoff valves; plug the drain to catch small parts.

  • Note where it leaks: at the spout tip or around the handle.

Step-By-Step Instructions:

  1. Close hot and cold shutoff valves; open faucet to relieve pressure.

  2. Remove handle: pop decorative cap, loosen set screw or handle screw, lift off.

  3. Remove any temperature limit stop and trim sleeve.

  4. Pull the retaining clip or unscrew the retaining nut/bonnet.

  5. Grasp the cartridge stem and pull straight up. Wiggle gently—do not twist hard.

  6. Note orientation tabs (front/back). Match the new cartridge to the old one.

  7. Clean the valve body bore; remove mineral flakes. Lightly grease O-rings.

  8. Insert the new cartridge in the same orientation; press fully seated.

  9. Reinstall the retaining clip or nut; tighten snug—not excessive.

  10. Refit trim sleeve, limit stop (if present), and handle; secure the screw.

  11. Close faucet. Slowly reopen shutoff valves and check operation.

  12. If the faucet mixes backward (hot/cold reversed), remove the handle and rotate the cartridge 180° (per brand instructions).

When to Stop & Call a Pro:

  • Cartridge is seized and won’t pull with steady force.

  • Retaining clip/nut is corroded or the valve body starts to turn.

  • Persistent drip after new cartridge and seals.

  • Shutoff valves leak or won’t operate.

Common Mistakes:

  • Buying the wrong cartridge (brand/model mismatch).

  • Twisting the cartridge while pulling—can damage the valve body.

  • Skipping O-ring lubrication, causing stiff operation or tears.

  • Reversing hot/cold orientation and not correcting the plug position.

Troubleshooting:

Q: Still dripping after replacement.
A: Confirm cartridge is fully seated and clip/nut is tight; inspect spout O-rings on some models.

Q: Handle is stiff or gritty.
A: Remove and re-lube O-rings; flush debris from the body; confirm no burrs.

Q: Water temperature is reversed.
A: Remove handle and rotate the cartridge 180° (check brand instructions).

Q: Drip moved to around the handle.
A: Replace bonnet/handle O-ring and grease lightly.