Kitchen faucets are a crucial component of any home, and understanding how they work can go a long way in helping you maintain them properly. But have you ever stopped to ask yourself: Do all kitchen faucets have cartridges?
It’s an intriguing question – one that could mean the difference between a functioning tap and one that needs repair or replacement.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the ins-and-outs of kitchen taps with cartridges; from exploring what makes them different from “regular” taps, to looking at various types of cartridge designs, materials and functions for your particular setup.
By the end of it, you will be better equipped to make informed decisions about whether or not your current kitchen faucet requires servicing or upgrading.
So let’s set out on our journey together into the fascinating world of cartridge-based kitchen faucets!
What Is the Difference Between a Faucet Stem and Cartridge?
The most common difference between a faucet stem and cartridge is the way in which they operate.
A faucet stem consists of two parts: a threaded sleeve that attaches to the faucet body, and a valve stem that fits into the sleeve.
When the handle is turned, it opens or closes the valve by pushing on the stem. The force applied to the stem controls how far open or closed the valve is.
A cartridge, on the other hand, does not require a separate valve stem as it operates using an internal mechanism within its own housing unit.
This allows for much more precise control over water flow and temperature than with a traditional faucet stem. In addition, cartridges are generally easier to replace than stems, making them a more popular choice for many homeowners.
Both faucet stems and cartridges can come in single-handle or two-handle designs, so there are many options to choose from depending on your specific needs. Regardless of the type you choose, both stem and cartridge faucets provide many years of reliable performance when properly maintained.
With regular cleaning and maintenance, they will ensure that your bathroom or kitchen has a steady supply of clean, hot water at all times.
That’s why it’s important to know the difference between a faucet stem and cartridge before deciding which one is right for you.
Do All Kitchen Faucets Have Cartridges?
Not all kitchen faucets have cartridges. Many modern kitchen faucets are single-handle models, which often use ball valves or ceramic disc valves instead of cartridges; these types of faucet don’t require the use of a cartridge.
However, some older kitchen faucets still incorporate cartridges into their design. Cartridge-style single-handle and double-handle kitchen faucets are more common in areas where hard water is an issue.
In these cases, the cartridges help to ensure that the flow rate and water temperature stay consistent over time.
Read more: kitchen faucet cartridge types
3 Causes of Damaging Kitchen Faucet Cartridge
1. Sediment Build-up: Small particles, such as bits of sand or grit, can accumulate in the faucet’s cartridge over time and create a thick layer that eventually clogs the small openings.
This buildup can cause significant damage to the cartridge if left untreated for too long.
2. Corrosion: Over time, contaminants in water, such as chlorine and other minerals, can corrode the metal parts of a kitchen faucet’s cartridge and lead to leaks or even failure.
3. Hard Water: Hard water is caused by high concentrations of calcium and magnesium in the water supply which then builds up on surfaces inside the plumbing system.
If left unchecked, this scale formation can cause a kitchen faucet’s cartridge to corrode and erode, eventually leading to a malfunctioning faucet.
These issues can easily be avoided by regularly performing maintenance on the kitchen faucet’s cartridge. This includes using descaling agents or other solutions to flush out sediment buildup, and replacing the cartridge periodically as needed.
Regularly cleaning the faucet may also help prevent corrosion from happening over time. With proper care and regular maintenance, a kitchen faucet’s cartridge can last for years without any significant damage or repairs.
Conclusion
Although a cartridge may look like a small part, it is integral to the proper function of your kitchen faucet. At its core, a cartridge is responsible for controlling the flow and temperature of water in your faucet.
Damaged cartridges can cause all sorts of problems, from leaks to scalding hot water—none of which are fun to deal with.
By understanding what cartridges do and how they differ from stems, you can be better equipped to choose the right replacement parts for your kitchen faucet. And if you ever find yourself in need of a new cartridge, remember: PlumbingSupply.com has got you covered!

Hey! I’m Anne. Welcome to Kitchen Faucet Advice! Anne have started this blog to help happy families to get right kitchen faucet for their lovely kitchens. When she is free, she loves writing about her experiences and play with her dog!