Replacing the cartridge in the mixer: detailed instructions for repair in photos and videos

How to replace the cartridge?

Of course, the ceramic plates of the cartridge last much longer, but they can also cause the mixer to work poorly, or even completely fail. It is impossible to repair cartridges - you need to know how to change them.

There are several external manifestations of a cartridge malfunction:

• there is no mixing of hot and cold water: at the outlet - only one of them;
• no water supply at all in any position of the tap lever;
• outlet water temperature is not fixed, it changes frequently;
• the faucet does not provide a full supply of water;
• after opening the tap, the water from the mixer cannot be shut off;
• water is constantly leaking from under the lever;
• the lever can only be turned with considerable effort.

The operation and condition of the mixer are largely affected by insoluble particles of rust, lime, sand and other impurities in the water. The use of various water purification filters extends the period of reliable operation of the cartridge, and hence the mixer as a whole.

The cartridge faucet not only wears out, but sometimes breaks due to a number of reasons:

• low-quality materials were used in the production;
• frequent sharp or shock impacts on the mixer lever;
• water hammer in the system;
• poor water quality;
• bad filters or their absence.

As you can see, it is not necessary to count on the eternal operation of mixing and water supply devices, especially cartridges, and the time will come when the old cartridge will have to be taken out and replaced with a new one. For repairs, you can invite experienced plumbers, but if you have the necessary skills and desire, you can carry out these works yourself.

When replacing a cartridge, you will need the following set of tools:

• screwdrivers for different sizes;
• wrench;
• pipe wrench;
• pliers;

• hex wrench (small, for the lock screw);
• clean rag;
• liquid WD-40.

The purchased new cartridge may not fit in terms of seats and dimensions, so the best option would be to bring the removed old unit to the store and buy a new one using it. The condition for such an exchange should be the presence of other working sources of water that compensate for the absence of a cartridge to be replaced.Dismantling a faulty cartridge is done without much difficulty - you need to do a few simple steps yourself.

You should start by removing the plastic decorative plug (blue / red) by simply prying it off with a flat screwdriver. In the depth of the opened hole is a small locking screw. You need to make sure what kind of head it has and prepare the appropriate screwdriver or hex key. The screw does not need to be completely unscrewed - just loosen it a little.

We clean the landing site of the cartridge from deposits, dirt, rust, sand. The cleaning operation must be approached seriously and carefully: if even small particles remain, the cartridge will not fit snugly into place even if the landing marks match. After that, we install the purchased new cartridge in a carefully prepared seat.

We turn on the water, check the operation in all modes. In the event of a leak, we disassemble the assembly in a known order and eliminate the malfunction. Now the locking screw can be screwed in more tightly and the access hole can be closed with a decorative plastic plug (blue/red). Replacement of cartridges in a similar way is carried out in any place where the mixers are installed: these nodes are almost the same in terms of device and installation principles and dismantling. Differences mixers mainly in their external design.

Another thing is when the mixer is of a more complex design: with a temperature controller, motion sensor or sensors. It is better to entrust the work of replacing parts in such devices to experienced specialists.

Leak repair

The task of replacing the cartridge in the mixer is much easier to solve than it seems at first glance. You will need these simple tools:

• wrench
• hex key
• two screwdrivers

The procedure will be as follows:

• turn off the supply of hot and cold streams
• remove the decorative cap located on the mixer
• unscrew the fixing screw located under this plug
• remove mixer tap
• unscrew the ring located under the handle
• remove the nut with a wrench
• pull out the faulty faucet cartridge

After all the steps you are left with:

• install a new working cartridge
• do the previous steps in reverse order
• turn on the water, check the operation of the mixer

Replacing the cartridge in the faucet is easy if you follow the instructions above. In order to choose the right part, it is recommended to clearly know what model your faucet is, and it is better to have an example of a faulty cartridge with you.

The main malfunctions of mixers when the cartridges break

The life of the device is affected by the quality of the water. Being in constant motion, it delivers particles of sand, metal and rust into the faucet system and destroys the surface of water pipes. This leads to product failure.

The main types of faults:

• the lever of the device goes tight, due to which it is difficult to adjust the water temperature;
• it is not possible to achieve full pressure or overlap of water;
• the water temperature changes at the same position of the lever;
• when moving the lever, it is impossible to achieve the inclusion of one type of water (only cold or only hot);
• water supply is not regulated. Only hot or cold flows.

Masters recommendations. Common Mistakes

Under renovation and replacement cartridges for cranes there are some subtleties that you should familiarize yourself with:

1. Before installation, be sure to clean the faucet and free it from accumulated debris.Otherwise, salt deposits and rust will not allow a new cartridge to be hermetically inserted;
2. To clean the scale, some experts advise warming up the device over an open fire. Doing this is not worth it exactly in order to avoid damage to the eccentric;
3. If the faucet is still leaking even with a tightly twisted lamb, unwind it again and check if all the grooves and protrusions are completely aligned;
4. The cause of the leak may lie in the sealing gasket. If it is damaged and the sealing of the joint is broken, water may continue to seep even if the device itself is in good condition;
5. If the mixer often breaks down, the problem may be systemic. After all, ceramic plates can quickly collapse under the influence of water hammer. In this case, it is worth checking the pressure in the water supply and installing a pressure regulator.

Installing a pressure regulator will protect the system from water hammer

What is needed for work

Replacing a faucet in the kitchen consists of two stages - first remove the old one, then mount and connect the new one. In addition to the new faucet, you will need keys of the right size and some auxiliary materials. Most often, keys are needed for 10 and 11, for 22 and 24. In order to remove the mixer from the countertop or sink, you will need two adjustable wrenches.

One more moment. You will most likely need new hoses. Although most kitchen faucets are equipped with flexible hoses, their length is 30 cm. This is not always enough. Before starting work, you need to make sure that the length of the regular hoses is enough.

What is necessary to replace the faucet in the kitchen

It depends on how far the cold and hot water pipes are from the mixer.The hoses should sag slightly, because when the tap is turned on / off, a sharp change in pressure occurs, from which the hoses twitch. If they are stretched, the connection will loosen very quickly and leak. So, if from the pipes to the inlet of the mixer 25 cm or less, regular hoses will suffice. If more, buy longer ones. And advice: get high-quality, not the cheapest. They quickly become unusable and can flood both you and the neighbors from below, if any. Therefore, take flexible hoses in a stainless braid or corrugated stainless pipe. They will serve for a long time and without complaints.

To buy hoses for a kitchen faucet, you will need the size of the "needle" - the tip that is screwed into the faucet, as well as the diameter of the pipe and the type of end (male-female) - to select the correct fittings.

To seal the connection, you will need linen tow with sealant paste or fum tape. You will need various gaskets and o-rings (should come with the kit, but just in case, find everything you have).

How to replace the ball mechanism?

Most of the steps for changing the ball cartridge in the mixer are similar to those described when repairing disk devices.

Image gallery

Photo from

Step 1: Removing the plastic plug

Step 2: Remove the screw holding the handle

Step 3: Removing the swivel mixer arm

Step 4: Replacing the damaged mechanism with a new one

The main stages of replacing the ball mechanism:

1. On the crane lever, remove the decorative plastic trim with a screwdriver.
2. The locking screw located under the overlay, depending on the configuration of the head, is unscrewed with a hexagon or a Phillips screwdriver.
3. Remove the mixer lever.
4. The pad located under the lever, fixed on the valve body by means of a threaded connection, is unscrewed with an adjustable wrench.
5. Using pliers with a narrow working part, a ball valve is removed by the stem.
6. Inspect the rubber seat of the cartridge and, if defects are found, replace it with a new one.
7. The ball is removed and inspected for surface defects. There shouldn't be any flow. The cavities in the ball are cleaned with a rag from accumulated debris.
8. Replace the rubber gaskets and assemble the structure in reverse order.

In the future, in order to protect plumbing equipment from premature failure, coarse filters should be installed at the inlet of cold and hot water.

Although many modern faucets often already have a filtration system built in, installing an additional barrier for large elements present in the water never hurts.

If the implementation of simple repair operations did not lead to the desired results, you will have to go to the store for a new device. The article presented by us will acquaint you with the steps for installing a new mixer.

Repair of ceramic bushing crane

Can a ceramic faucet box be repaired? The answer is yes, although many masters are inclined to believe that it is much easier to change it. But we are not looking for easy ways and will consider step by step how to repair it.

Valve repair

In most cases, the cause of leakage is the wear of the sealing gasket. Over time, it loses its working properties and elasticity and must be replaced.

• First you need to remove the faucet valve. To unscrew the locking screw, you will need to remove the plastic decorative plug. You can do this with a knife, gently picking it up.It will take some effort to remove the flywheel.
• Remove the decorative cap - "apron". To do this, we use an adjustable wrench, after placing a piece of cloth under it, so as not to damage the nickel-plated coating. Often, oxide forms on the threaded connection, which prevents normal operation. To facilitate the work, you can heat the cap with a building hair dryer or fill the thread with acetic acid.

I can’t unscrew the bushing tap - read how to do it here.

• After gaining access to the axle box, it must be unscrewed. It unscrews counterclockwise.
• After removing the axle box valve, it must be thoroughly cleaned of slag and rinsed. Only after that you can start repairing.

If water oozed from under the valve, then the reason was the violation of the rubber seal - the gaskets between the body and the saddle of the valve box. Replace her won't be difficult, so you do not have to disassemble the axle box crane. You can buy a repair kit at any hardware store - for example, in Leroy, its cost is 50 rubles.

Replacing the pressure washer

To compensate for the gaps between the ceramic washers, a gasket made of PTFE or caprolon is used. Due to the fact that it accounts for a significant part of the load over time, it thins and wears out, which immediately leads to water seepage.

• In this case, parsing is indispensable. First, remove the retaining half ring and remove the stem.
• Remove the ceramic inserts and pressure washer.
• We replace and assemble in the reverse order, after lubricating the surface with a thin layer of grease.

We clean the bushing faucet

Tap water contains impurities and foreign bodies that pass through the faucet box and settle on the inserts. To remove them, you will also need to disassemble. Then all parts are thoroughly washed. You should also carefully inspect the plates for damage. If they are significant, then it is worth replacing them.

If it is not possible to purchase a repair kit, then you can grind the plates yourself. To do this, you need a fine abrasive powder, which grind the valve. This powder must be mixed with machine oil and applied to a piece of glass. Then grind the ceramic inserts in a circular motion and assemble the axle box crane. It is also necessary to apply a thin layer of waterproof lubricant.

Damage to metal elements

If the analysis revealed such shortcomings as:

1. Chips or cracks in ceramic inserts
2. Violation of the integrity of the body crane box
3. Damage to threaded connections

All these shortcomings cannot be repaired and the axle box assembly will have to be changed.

Cartridge classification

The variety of models is explained by the differences in their structure and the difference in the algorithm of the workflow.

According to the internal structure, varieties are known:

1. The mechanism of the device is in the form of a ball. Both the temperature regime of the water and the power of the water supply pressure are controlled. Therefore, if the crane breaks down, it is for him to replace it. The mechanism is a ball with one hole or two. A moving lever forces the holes to close from the water inlets. Water is mixed. The ball mechanism is installed only in the single-lever mixer.
2. The disc mechanism works on the same principle.A special disk can also be in two-valve taps.

For mixers, cartridges are distinguished by the material from which they were made:

• metal;
• ceramics.

The principle of operation of the crane is based on the classification:

cartridge for single-lever mixers;

faucet with a cartridge, the mechanism of which is two-lever.

Among themselves, all types differ in the number of protruding elements that must coincide with the grooves in the mixer body and the number of holes for the nozzles.

Single lever mechanism

In a single-lever mixer, a disk model or a ball mixer is used. The mixer complies with GOST 25809-96. Water is supplied when the lever is rotated in different directions, the position of the locking device changes. The use of the model has also spread to kitchen faucets and shower cubicles. Until recently, it was used only in bathroom devices.

Description of ceramic cartridge

difference ceramic cartridge for mixer is that the important details are 2 plates lying tightly to each other. They are involved in adjusting the power of water pressure and in raising or lowering its temperature. The locking device is lubricated to reduce friction between ceramic plates.

A leak with a closed tap indicates that this breakdown is eliminated only by replacing the device.

A model of this type is used in the kitchen, in the bathroom and in the shower faucet. It is difficult to understand the number of device models, how to choose the right one manufacturer. Hansgrohe and Grohe are in demand for sale.

Features of the shower cartridge

Diverter is the name of the device. This is a cartridge with three to six water mixing positions.The number of positions is proportional to the number of devices connected (hydrobox needs a diverter cartridge with 5 positions).

Knowing this feature of the model, you need to figure out how to choose it for the mixer. The basis of the crane operation algorithm is the rotation of the brass rod by 360g around its axis. This rotation provides 6 lever positions.

Ball valve mechanism and its cartridge

By changing the position of the shut-off ball of single-lever taps, the cartridge changes the power of the water flow or stops it completely. There are 2 identical holes and one large one on the bottom of the device. The holes all completely overlap or some of them, which regulates the pressure power in a single-lever mixer.

Mixer with thermostat

The faucet is equipped with a scale where the required temperature is set. The lock is set to a predetermined position and does not change. The cartridge device regulates the pressure and temperature of the water supply.

The crane model is used in public places.

The thermostatic model is installed in washbasins, bidets.

This is interesting: Frap faucets - varieties and distinctive features

Types of faucet cartridges

The main purpose of the cartridge is to mix hot and cold water flows, as well as to regulate the intensity of their supply, ensuring the smooth operation of plumbing equipment.

When equipping single-lever mixers, two types of devices are used: ball and disk. In terms of service life, they are approximately equal. But still, the bulk of mixers for domestic use are equipped with disc-type mechanisms.

In the event of a breakdown of the main functional mechanism of the plumbing fixture, the cartridge should be replaced in the mixer as soon as possible

This is due to the fact that in the legal plane with the production of ceramic disc mechanisms, the situation is much simpler. Not all manufacturers have a license for the manufacture of ball types of devices. In order not to pay for the right to release, it is easier for companies to stamp disk devices that are in demand on the market.

Steel ball devices

The design of the ball joystick is a locking element in the form of a hollow steel ball, equipped with three openings that communicate with each other: two inlets and one outlet.

The hollow element, seated in a cartridge sleeve made of high-strength rubber, is connected to the transmission mechanism using a lever

The temperature and pressure of the flow are set depending on the position of the openings of the inlet nozzles and the cavities of the ball. The larger the overlap area, the stronger the flow.

When the lever is turned or tilted, the walls of the ball close one or both holes, allowing flows from nozzles with hot or cold water to enter and mix inside the cavities of the locking element.

The main disadvantage of ball devices is the vulnerability to deposits that form and accumulate inside them during operation. They worsen the smoothness of pressing the mechanism, causing the joystick to fail.

In the design of most models, the ball and seat are placed in a single cartridge body, but there are also options where the base is attached directly to the inner walls of the valve

Based on the diameter, height and seat, these types of devices on the market are presented in a large assortment.

Therefore, when changing the cartridge on the mixer, it is important to select and install a completely identical spare part.

In order to protect yourself from mistakes when choosing, leading to unplanned waste, buying a new “core”, it is advisable to take a used old one with you for a sample.

Disc "cores" made of ceramic plates

Disc cartridges are equipped with two smooth and tightly adjacent plates made of cermet. The lower plate is securely fixed in the “core”, and the movable upper plate is connected to the control rod, due to which it freely rotates around its axis.

In cylindrical devices, water flows are mixed due to the displacement of the disks relative to each other, as a result of which the holes completely or partially overlap

In the mixing cavity is a metal mesh, the main purpose of which is to suppress noise. In some models, the role of a noise suppressor is performed by curly protrusions.

The stem acts as the basis for fixing the handle of the single-lever device itself. It is attached to the upper ceramic disc and can be removed if necessary.

Adjustment of the water pressure in the cylindrical "cores" is carried out by moving the top plate. It is equipped with protrusions and depressions that cover the holes of the lower disc. The more the holes are closed, the weaker the pressure.

At a given position of the lever, the hollows and protrusions of the "core" are tightly combined, as a result of which the water supply from the tap is completely blocked.

To increase the tightness of the structure, most models have rubber gaskets at the bottom of the mechanism. To extend the "life" of ceramic elements, a metal mesh is provided. It acts as a coarse filter.

A similar device for cartridges for showers. We recommend that you familiarize yourself with the design and features of their repair.

Replacing the cartridge in the faucet how to change the cartridge in the faucet with your own hands

How to change the cartridge in the mixer: tips from experts

Replacing the ceramic cartridge in the mixer sooner or later becomes necessary for all owners of single-lever mixers. To date, it is this type of plumbing that is confidently replacing well-known valve structures. Therefore, each owner must know the algorithm for how to change the cartridge in the mixer.

The principle of operation of the mixer

The cartridge is the main element that ensures the operation of a single-lever mixer. It makes it possible to control water flows not with two usual valves, but with the help of just one handle.

A device such as a cartridge greatly facilitates the process of switching water. This plumbing fixture deprives you of the need to adjust the optimal proportion of hot and cold water.

Now all you have to do is select the correct position of the mixer lever.

The cartridge consists of two plates, each of which is ceramic. These plates are located close to each other. About the breakdown and the need for replacement they say:

• inability to completely shut off the water supply
• moisture seepage from below
• unpleasant foreign noise

These and other signs indicate that your faucet cartridge is out of order and needs to be updated. The cost of replacing a cartridge in a faucet is often not cheap, so you'd better learn how to change it yourself.

Why does the cartridge break?

The use of a ceramic cartridge today is justified as such by the popularity of ceramic products. Ceramics tolerate friction exceptionally well, they are not afraid of corrosion processes. It is these characteristics of the mixer that enable the manufacturer to voice the impressive cost of the goods, while providing a long warranty period.

However, the mixer cartridge is not eternal. Breakage can be caused by such reasons as:

• water quality often does not meet the requirements set by the manufacturer
• oxidized metal as impurities in water
• a large number and high frequency of cartridge hydraulic shocks
• the presence of a large amount of salt precipitation
• completion of the declared service life
• underestimated quality of the design of the ceramic element

A faucet cartridge will serve you for a long time if:

• do not save on buying goods from well-known companies
• install a filter that protects the cartridge from salt deposits

Many manufacturing companies install a filter for the mixer and consider its presence a prerequisite for fulfilling warranty obligations.

However, not only water and the manufacturer can be to blame for the failure of your cartridge. Excessive pressure on pushing the lever, careless handling of the mixer can also cause damage.

How to replace the cartridge?

The task of replacing the cartridge in the mixer is much easier to solve than it seems at first glance.You will need these simple tools:

• wrench
• hex key
• two screwdrivers

Replacing an old ceramic cartridge is a lot like replacing an old worn gasket in a standard valve design.

The procedure will be as follows:

• turn off the supply of hot and cold streams
• remove the decorative cap located on the mixer
• unscrew the fixing screw located under this plug
• remove mixer tap
• unscrew the ring located under the handle
• remove the nut with a wrench
• pull out the faulty faucet cartridge

After all the steps you are left with:

• install a new working cartridge
• do the previous steps in reverse order
• turn on the water, check the operation of the mixer

Replacing the cartridge in the faucet is easy if you follow the instructions above. In order to choose the right part, it is recommended to clearly know what model your faucet is, and it is better to have an example of a faulty cartridge with you.

Leave a request now!

And get the best offers from trusted craftsmen and teams.

1. Compare prices and choose the best conditions
2. Responses only from interested specialists
3. Do not waste time communicating with intermediaries

Leave a request More than 10,000 performers are waiting for your orders!