Most bathroom faucets that have two handles are cartridge-style faucets.
If you have a very old two-handle faucet, it may be a compression-jot down rather than a cartridge.
You need toreplace the cartridgeon only the side that’s leaking.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
However, it’s possible that both sides are leaking and you’ll have to replace both cartridges.
Most shutoff valves have a small, football-shaped handle or a lever that rotates.
Some handles have setscrews on the side or rear.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Others have a decorative cap (usually plastic) that conceals a screw that secures the handle.
If your faucet has a setscrew, remove the setscrew with anAllen wrench.
Pull straight up on the handle to remove it from the faucet body.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Remove the Retaining Nut
Loosen the cartridge retaining nut, using a pipe wrench or tongue-and-groove pliers.
Unscrew the nut all the way and remove it from the faucet body.
Note the brass screw at the top of the cartridge, if there is one.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Its purpose is to reinforce the cartridge shaft when the faucet body’s setscrew is tightened against it.
Remove the Old Cartridge
Note the orientation of the faucet cartridge.
You must reinstall the new cartridge in exactly the same way.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Most cartridges have one or two tabs that fit into notches on the faucet body.
Pull the cartridge straight up to remove it from the faucet body.
If necessary, grab the shaft at the top of the cartridge with pliers to pull out the cartridge.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
New cartridges typically include new rubber O-rings for the cartridge.
If desired, also pick up some plumber’s grease for the O-rings.
Push the cartridge all the way into the housing.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Reinstall the faucet handle and setscrew orPhillips screwas well as the decorative cap, as applicable.
Turn on the shutoff valve for the water supply to the tap by opening it counterclockwise all the way.
Test the faucet for proper operation.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Usually its just wear and tear that leads to aleaky faucet.
Youll replace the cartridge only on that side, saving you time and money.
Water dripping out of the faucet can be a sign that thecartridgeis bad.
Another telltale sign is difficulty getting the desiredwater temperature.
