Single Tap Cartridge

A single tap cartridge is usually used when you install a single handle faucet. This cartridge will be able to regulate the temperature and the flow of the water, making it simpler and more popular than dual handle faucets. Instead of opening two different faucets when you need to mix water at a certain temperature, installing a single handle faucet will allow you to regulate the temperature of the water simply by adjusting the handle of the faucet in a certain direction.

Is a Single Tap Cartridge Easier to Replace?

A single tap cartridge is easier to replace. Disassembling a single faucet is a lot easier since there aren’t multiple parts that will need to be taken apart and the faucet will usually slip off the base after it is unscrewed. Ensure that you plug up the drain before you begin working so that you don’t drop a small part into the drain while you disassemble the faucet.

The Different Types of Single Tap Cartridge Faucets

Single tap faucets work in a variety of ways and this means that you will need to ensure that you understand how each type works so that you can replace the cartridges within these items whenever you need to. The four types of single handed faucets are:

Disk Cartridge Faucets
Sleeve Cartridge Faucets
Rotating Ball Faucets
Compression Faucets

Disk Cartridge Faucets

This type of faucet uses two disks that mix the hot and cold water. If you are having a problem with a leaky faucet, you will rarely have to replace these disks as they rarely wear down to this point. You will usually have to replace seals or another component of the system if your faucet is leaking.

Sleeve Cartridge Faucets

If there is a leak with this type of faucet, it normally indicates a problem with the single tap cartridge itself or with the o-rings.

Rotating Ball Faucet

When you have a leaky rotating ball faucet, you should inspect the seals of the faucet, instead of the cartridge as these components will need to be replaced more often.

Compression Faucets

When you have a problem with this type of faucet, it is usually the seat washer that needs replacing.

Locating the Problem with Different Types of Faucet

Each type of faucet works differently and, in order to solve a problem, you will have to understand how each component works and what you can do to resolve the problem. Understanding how these faucets work will save you a lot of time and money since it will allow you to locate the problem a lot quicker without having to spend money purchasing components that you don’t need.

You will usually be able to discover the type of faucet you have by understanding how your faucet works and the pressure with which your water flows. Take a few minutes to get to know the types of faucets in your home so that you can quickly resolve any problems that might spring up in the future.