How To Replace Cartridge In Delta Two Handle Bathroom Faucet

How to Replace a Cartridge in a Delta Two-Handle Bathroom Faucet

Delta two-handle bathroom faucets are a popular choice for their durability and ease of use. However, even the best faucets can eventually start to leak, and one of the most common causes of leaks is a worn-out cartridge.

Replacing a cartridge in a Delta two-handle bathroom faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in about 30 minutes. Here are the steps you'll need to follow:

1. Gather Your Tools and Materials

Before you begin, you'll need to gather the following tools and materials:

Replacement cartridge (make sure it's the correct size and type for your faucet)
Adjustable wrench
Phillips head screwdriver
Needle-nose pliers
Bucket or bowl
Rags

2. Remove the Handle

To remove the handle, first use the adjustable wrench to loosen the packing nut located beneath the handle. Once the packing nut is loose, you can pull the handle straight up to remove it.

3. Remove the Escutcheon Plate

The escutcheon plate is the decorative plate that surrounds the base of the handle. To remove the escutcheon plate, use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws that are holding it in place.

4. Loosen the Cartridge Retainer Nut

Once the escutcheon plate is removed, you'll see the cartridge retainer nut. Use the adjustable wrench to loosen the cartridge retainer nut, but don't remove it completely.

5. Remove the Cartridge

To remove the cartridge, use the needle-nose pliers to grasp the pull tab on the top of the cartridge. Pull the cartridge straight up to remove it from the faucet body.

6. Inspect the Cartridge

Once you have removed the cartridge, inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. If the cartridge is damaged or worn, it will need to be replaced.

7. Insert the New Cartridge

To insert the new cartridge, first apply a thin layer of plumber's grease to the O-rings on the cartridge. Then, insert the cartridge into the faucet body, making sure that the pull tab is facing up.

8. Tighten the Cartridge Retainer Nut

Once the cartridge is in place, tighten the cartridge retainer nut using the adjustable wrench. Be sure to tighten the nut snugly, but don't overtighten it.

9. Reinstall the Escutcheon Plate

Reinstall the escutcheon plate by screwing it into place using the Phillips head screwdriver.

10. Reinstall the Handle

Reinstall the handle by pushing it down onto the cartridge stem. Then, tighten the packing nut beneath the handle using the adjustable wrench.

11. Test the Faucet

Once the faucet has been reassembled, turn on the water and test the faucet to make sure that it is working properly. If the faucet is leaking, you may need to tighten the cartridge retainer nut or the packing nut further.

Conclusion

Replacing a cartridge in a Delta two-handle bathroom faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in about 30 minutes. By following these steps, you can save yourself the cost of hiring a plumber.