How To Replace American Standard Bathroom Sink Faucet Cartridge

How to Replace an American Standard Bathroom Sink Faucet Cartridge

Replacing a faulty cartridge in an American Standard bathroom sink faucet is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes with the right tools and materials. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can restore the proper functioning of your faucet and save money by avoiding the cost of hiring a plumber.

Tools and Materials Needed:

Adjustable wrench
Phillips head screwdriver
Flat head screwdriver
Bucket or container for catching water
Replacement cartridge for your specific American Standard faucet model
Teflon tape

Step-by-step Guide:

1. Turn Off the Water Supply:

Locate the water supply valves beneath the sink and turn them clockwise to shut off the hot and cold water supply to the faucet.

2. Remove the Faucet Handle:

Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the screws securing the faucet handle. Once the screws are removed, pull the handle straight up to detach it from the faucet.

3. Remove the Aerator:

If your faucet has an aerator attached to the spout, unscrew it using your fingers or a wrench.

4. Open the Drain Plug:

Place a bucket or container beneath the drain to catch any water that may leak out during the replacement process.

5. Disconnect the Supply Lines:

Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts connecting the hot and cold water supply lines to the faucet. Be prepared for some water to leak out.

6. Remove the Cartridge Retaining Nut:

Using a flat head screwdriver, pry off the cover plate on the faucet base. Beneath the cover plate, you'll find the cartridge retaining nut. Loosen the retaining nut with an adjustable wrench.

7. Remove the Old Cartridge:

Once the retaining nut is removed, you can pull out the old cartridge from the faucet. Be careful not to drop any parts into the drain.

8. Install the New Cartridge:

Before installing the new cartridge, apply a thin layer of Teflon tape around the threads to prevent leaks. Insert the new cartridge into the faucet and hand-tighten it.

9. Reinstall the Cartridge Retaining Nut:

Use the adjustable wrench to tighten the cartridge retaining nut. Ensure that the cartridge is secure but do not overtighten it.

10. Reconnect the Supply Lines:

Reconnect the hot and cold water supply lines to the faucet and tighten the nuts with the adjustable wrench.

11. Reinstall the Aerator:

Reattach the aerator to the faucet spout if it was removed earlier.

12. Reinstall the Faucet Handle:

Align the handle with the faucet and insert the screws. Tighten the screws with the Phillips head screwdriver.

13. Turn on the Water Supply:

Turn on the water supply valves beneath the sink to restore water flow to the faucet.

14. Test the Faucet:

Open the sink faucet and adjust the handle to both hot and cold positions to ensure the faucet is functioning properly and there are no leaks.

Conclusion:

By following these instructions, you have successfully replaced the cartridge in your American Standard bathroom sink faucet. If you encounter any difficulties or leaks during the process, do not hesitate to reach out to a qualified plumber for assistance.