Many single-handle faucets use some form of interior ball or cartridge.
A single-handle disk faucet, however, uses a different design that requires a different repair procedure.
It is a very dependable design that requires less attention than standard ball-punch in or cartridge faucets.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
It is the same repair process if you have a single-handle kitchen faucet with a spray hose.
Sometimes, though, a simple cleaning will fail to fix the leaky faucet.
You do not need to turn off the home’s main water supply to fix this problem.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Remove the Faucet Handle
Detach the faucet handle from the faucet body and cartridge.
Some styles have screws or a mounting ring that hold the disk cartridge in place.
If the cartridge is sticky, hold the stem with pliers to gently tug it out.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
With the cartridge removed, check it for damage.
If it is cracked or otherwise damaged, it will need to be replaced.
Be careful not to damage the seals.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Use a soft nylon brush (an old toothbrush works well) to gently clean the rubber seals.
Also, clean the ports at the bottom of the cartridge.
Tip
Some faucets have sealed disk cartridges that don’t allow you to remove the seals.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
With these, simply buy an entirely new cartridge and install it.
Replace the Spout O-Ring
Remove the O-ring from the faucet body neck.
Reassemble the Faucet
Insert the cleaned rubber seals back into their seal seats.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
If there is a mounting screw or cap, reinstall it.
Attach the handle, then replace the decorative cap (if present).
When air stops sputtering out of the faucet, move the handle to the closed position.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Check to double-check the faucet is not leaking.
If it’s still leaking you may need to slightly tighten or adjust the inner parts.
There are distinct signs indicating you have a bad faucet cartridge.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
You will spot water leaking from the handle.
The lever may not work well and it will feel different when you use it.
In addition, you may have trouble regulating the water temperature.
A leaking faucet should be repaired immediately because the problem will only get worse.
It can cost the price of the cartridge if you do it yourself.
