How to Diagnose a Faulty Faucet Cartridge and Fix Common Issues

Faucets are one of the most frequently used fixtures in any home, making their maintenance crucial for long-lasting performance. The cartridge inside your faucet plays a key role in controlling water flow and temperature. Over time, however, these cartridges can wear out or become damaged, leading to problems such as leaks, inconsistent water temperature, or low water pressure. Understanding how to identify when a faucet cartridge is bad can help you address the issue before it becomes a bigger problem. In this post, we’ll explore the signs of a bad faucet cartridge, how to diagnose the issue, and what you can do to fix it.

1. Persistent Leaks

One of the most common signs of a bad faucet cartridge is a persistent leak, especially if it’s coming from the spout when the faucet is off. When a cartridge starts to wear down, the seals inside it may no longer create a proper seal, leading to water leaking out of the faucet. In some cases, the leak might be small at first, but over time, it can become more pronounced and waste water.

To test for this type of leak:

• Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
• Dry off the faucet spout and surrounding area.
• Leave the faucet handle in the “off” position for a few hours and then check if water has pooled around the faucet base.

If water has started to accumulate, the cartridge is likely worn out and needs replacing.

2. Inconsistent Water Temperature

Another common symptom of a bad faucet cartridge is inconsistent water temperature. If the faucet is having trouble maintaining a steady temperature—switching from hot to cold or lukewarm water when you haven’t adjusted the handle—there’s a good chance that the cartridge is to blame.

Cartridges control the balance of hot and cold water by mixing the two according to the user’s preferences. Over time, minerals and debris can build up inside the cartridge, preventing it from properly regulating the water temperature. If the faucet starts to feel too hot or too cold, or if it won’t maintain the temperature you set, replacing the cartridge is often the solution.

3. Reduced Water Pressure

If you notice that the water pressure has dropped significantly or water flow seems weak, it could be due to a faulty faucet cartridge. When the cartridge wears out, mineral deposits and debris can block the water pathways inside it, causing a reduction in water flow. This can lead to frustratingly low water pressure, especially in faucets that were previously functioning well.

To check for reduced water pressure:

• Turn on the faucet and observe the flow of water.
• If the water comes out in a trickle or with inconsistent pressure, the cartridge may be blocked or malfunctioning.
• Try removing any aerators or screens from the faucet spout to ensure they’re not clogged before concluding the issue lies with the cartridge itself.

4. Difficulty Turning the Handle

If you have trouble turning the faucet handle or if it feels stiff or loose, this could indicate that the faucet cartridge is wearing down. A cartridge that has become clogged with debris, worn out, or damaged may not move freely, making it difficult to adjust the water flow or temperature.

To assess whether the handle is malfunctioning due to the cartridge:

• Turn the faucet handle to its fully open position.
• If it’s hard to turn, requires excessive force, or seems loose and wobbly, this can point to internal problems with the cartridge.
• In this case, replacing the cartridge should restore smooth operation.

5. Discolored Water

If you notice that the water coming out of your faucet is discolored, such as a rusty or brownish hue, it’s possible that the faucet cartridge is corroded or clogged. Over time, minerals and rust can build up in the cartridge, leading to discoloration as the water flows through it.

If you suspect a corroded cartridge:

• Run the faucet for a few minutes to see if the discoloration clears up.
• If the water remains discolored, it’s time to inspect the cartridge and replace it if necessary.

6. Faucet Handle Sticking or Leaking When Turning

Another common problem is when the faucet handle either sticks or leaks when you turn it. If the handle feels stuck or sluggish when you try to adjust the temperature or water flow, it could be a sign that the cartridge’s internal components are no longer functioning correctly. Additionally, if you see water leaking from the base of the handle when you try to turn it, this often points to a worn-out cartridge seal that needs replacing.

7. No Water Flow

In some extreme cases, a bad cartridge can cause the faucet to stop delivering water altogether. While this may be less common than other issues, a blocked or damaged cartridge can obstruct water from flowing through the faucet entirely. If you’ve checked that the water supply is turned on and there are no visible blockages, it’s worth inspecting the cartridge.

How to Diagnose and Replace a Faulty Faucet Cartridge

If you’ve noticed any of the signs above, here’s a step-by-step guide to diagnosing and replacing a faulty faucet cartridge:

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

Before you begin, make sure to turn off the water supply to the faucet. Most faucets will have shutoff valves under the sink, but if not, you may need to turn off the main water supply to your home.

Step 2: Remove the Faucet Handle

Once the water is off, you can begin disassembling the faucet. Use a screwdriver to remove the screw holding the faucet handle in place. This may require removing a decorative cap to expose the screw.

Step 3: Take Out the Old Cartridge

After removing the handle, you’ll be able to see the cartridge. Depending on the type of faucet you have, you may need a wrench to loosen and remove the old cartridge. Take note of how the cartridge is positioned so you can install the new one correctly.

Step 4: Install the New Cartridge

Once the old cartridge is removed, insert the new one into the faucet assembly. Ensure that it fits securely and is oriented the same way as the old cartridge. Some faucets may have specific instructions for the cartridge installation, so be sure to follow them carefully.

Step 5: Reassemble the Faucet

Reassemble the faucet by reattaching the handle and any other parts you removed. Turn the water supply back on and test the faucet to ensure everything is working properly.

Conclusion

A bad faucet cartridge can cause various problems, from leaks and inconsistent water temperature to low water pressure and difficulty turning the handle. If you experience any of these issues, the cartridge might need to be replaced. Fortunately, diagnosing and replacing a bad faucet cartridge is a relatively simple DIY task that can save you both time and money. By staying on top of faucet maintenance, you can ensure your faucets continue to function properly for years to come.