Fix a leaky faucet or shower valve with the right replacement parts. Explore the range of faucet stems and cartridges at Ace Hardware from Danco, Moen, Kohler and other brands. Whether you're repairing a sink, tub or shower, selecting the correct internal components can help restore water flow and maintain reliable performance.
What Are Faucet Cartridges?
Faucet cartridges control water flow in a variety of plumbing fixtures. You'll find them in modern bathroom and kitchen faucets as well as tub and shower systems, particularly those with single-handle designs that operate both hot and cold water.
- Single-handle cartridges: These typically control both temperature and volume in a single unit.
- Pressure balance valves: Common in shower systems, these cartridges help maintain a more consistent water temperature when other water sources are in use.
- Diverter cartridges: These specialized units direct water between a tub spout and a showerhead.
Located within the faucet valve, cartridges regulate water flow as the handle is moved. Over time, wear and tear can prevent a cartridge from sealing properly, potentially leading to leaks or inconsistent temperature control.
What Are Faucet Stems?
Faucet stems are plumbing parts that control water flow in fixtures with separate handles for hot and cold water. Each handle operates its own stem, opening and closing the valve to start and stop the flow of water.
- Hot and cold stems: Designed for individual water lines in traditional two-handle faucets.
- Stem extensions: Helpful when a valve is installed deeper within a wall and additional reach is needed for handle installation.
- Anti-siphon stems: Commonly used in outdoor faucet repair applications to help protect against backflow.
Like cartridges, faucet stems experience wear over time and may eventually require replacement to address leaks and restore proper operation. When performing repairs, having the right plumbing tools can help make installation easier and reduce the risk of damaging surrounding plumbing components.
Choosing the Right Faucet Cartridge or Stem
When replacing faucet stems or cartridges, it's important to get the correct replacement part for your sink, tub or shower. Cartridges and stems come in different sizes, configurations and brand-specific designs, and only the model intended for your fixture will provide proper fit and performance.
Many repairs also require related faucet parts such as clips, O-rings, springs or other replacement components. If you're updating the visible portions of the fixture as well, you may also want to browse compatible faucet handles.
Additional Valve Components and Repair Parts
Some repair projects may require more than a replacement cartridge or stem.
- Cartridge clips: Help secure cartridges within the valve body.
- Stem barrels: May need replacement when threads become worn or damaged.
- Repair kits: Often include springs, seals and other components needed to complete a repair.
- Aerator maintenance: While servicing a faucet, it's a good opportunity to inspect faucet aerators for mineral buildup that may affect flow and pressure.
When to Replace a Cartridge or Stem
The most common sign that it's time to replace a cartridge or stem is water dripping from a sink or faucet when the fixture is in the off position. However, there are other signs that these components may be wearing out.
- For Cartridges: As a cartridge ages, you may find it more difficult to move the handle toward the hot or cold water position. You may also notice inconsistent water temperatures or water flowing hot when the handle is positioned toward cold, or vice versa.
- For Stems: A failing faucet stem can make hot or cold handles harder to operate and may cause leaking around the handle assembly.
Shop Faucet Stems and Cartridges at Ace Hardware
Ace Hardware offers a wide selection of replacement cartridges, stems and related repair parts for sink, tub and shower applications. Shop online for convenient delivery or browse faucet stems and cartridges near you to check local availability and find the supplies you need for your next repair project.
