ceramic cartridge in a mixer tap
What and how:
Ceramic disc cartridges are made with two ceramic discs each with two holes (for mixers) or 1 hole (for pillar or 2 handle taps) in it. One disc moves with the tap handle and the other disc remains in position. When these holes are aligned, the water is allowed to flow. In the off position, the holes are no longer aligned and the water stops.
These regulate the flow of water from your tap. It can happen that small particles get stuck in the disc assembly and you must clean the cartridge. In extreme cases you must replace the cartridge but obviously it is better to clean the cartridge before replacing it.
- Turn off the water supply. Place a cloth over the waste hole to catch any small screws or parts that may accidentally drop into the basin/sink as you work.
- Remove the cartridge
- Examine the cartridge. Clean and rinse the seals, openings and cylinder. If a seal is damaged then replace it
- Remove mineral deposits stuck on the ceramic discs. A drop of food coloring may reveal a cracked ceramic disc. If you see a crack you must replace the cartridge
- Reassemble and test. Ensure the tap is in the ‘on’ position and slowly turn the water supply back on. Too much pressure too fast can harm the discs in the cartridge
- If the tap still leaks you need to replace the old cartridge
the tap featured dose not have an removable H/C cap. How do I remove the top of this tap to access the cartridge?
Another common way to fasten the head on to a tap is by a grub screw.
This grub screw can be concealed by a small plug, either chrome coloured or red/blue hot cold indicator, or it can be concealed by the lever. In this case the lever can be unscrewed by hand.