Faucet repair may be easy fix

Over time, single-lever faucets may experience diminished water flow and a lever that is more and more difficult to operate.

Often, the problem may require a very simple plumbing fix. Inside your faucet is a cartridge that slides up and down when you push or pull the on/off lever.

More than likely, the cartridge is filled with mineral deposits or damaged and needs replacing. Shut off the water supply to the faucet and release the pressure in the lines by turning on the faucet. Take off the handle by removing the small screw usually positioned on the lower (underside) of the faucet handle beneath the spigot. Usually, a hex wrench is the best tool for this procedure. Next, remove the cap on which the handled rested. Once the handle and cap have been removed, the cartridge should pull out easily.

Clean the cartridge, including the ceramic disk, plastic washer and O-ring (if not clean). Soaking it in white vinegar or a commercial product such as CLR will dissolve any mineral or hard water deposits that might be clogging these components. Replace the plastic washer and/or O-ring if twisted or worn out. Reinstall the cartridge and make sure its two extensions fit with the two corresponding holes precisely. Put back the cap and reinstall the handle. Turn on the water supply and double check.

If you still have water-flow problems, check the aerator assembly at the mouth of the spout. Unscrew and dismantle the disks and washers within and clean these components and reassemble.

If these cleaning processes fail to solve the problem, the cartridge is faulty. It can be replaced with a new one, readily available at a plumbing supply store or home center. Be sure and take the old one with you when shopping for a replacement to be sure you get the right fit.

A word of caution: If the faucet fixture is older or one of the less-expensive models, you might consider replacing it with a new fixture. The cost of the new cartridge can be almost that of a new fixture, and dismantling of the faucet and making the described repairs is almost as much work as installing a new unit.