A dripping faucet that won’t stop — even when fully closed — almost always means the cartridge is worn. Cartridges are the valve mechanism inside single-handle faucets that controls flow and temperature. The right replacement cartridge stops the drip permanently. The hard part is identifying which cartridge your faucet uses. Here’s how to figure it out and what to buy.
| Product | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Moen 1225 Cartridge | Best for Moen Faucets | ~$18 |
| Delta RP46074 Cartridge | Best for Delta Faucets | ~$20 |
| Danco 10615 Universal Ceramic Disc Cartridge | Best Universal | ~$12 |
Best for Moen: Moen 1225 Cartridge
The Moen 1225 is the most widely used Moen cartridge — it fits the majority of Moen single-handle faucets built since the 1980s. Moen also offers a lifetime warranty: if a Moen faucet drips, they’ll send you a free replacement cartridge. Call 1-800-BUY-MOEN before buying anything.
- ✅ Fits most Moen single-handle faucets
- ✅ Moen offers free warranty replacement
- ✅ OEM fit — guaranteed to work
- ❌ Only for Moen faucets
How to Identify and Replace a Faucet Cartridge
- Turn off both supply valves under the sink.
- Remove the handle — usually a set screw under a decorative cap.
- Note the cartridge orientation (photograph it before removal).
- Pull the cartridge straight out with pliers or a cartridge puller tool.
- Take the old cartridge to a plumbing supply store to match it exactly, or identify the faucet brand/model and order the OEM replacement.
- Insert the new cartridge in the same orientation. Replace the retaining clip if present.
- Reassemble and test.
Tip: Cartridge orientation matters — installing it 180° off will make hot and cold reversed. Mark the front of the cartridge before removal.
FAQ
How do I know which cartridge my faucet takes?
Look for a brand name on the faucet body or handle. If you can’t find it, remove the cartridge and take it to a plumbing supply store — they can usually match it from the physical part.
My faucet still drips after a new cartridge. What’s wrong?
Either the cartridge is installed incorrectly (check orientation) or the valve seat is damaged. A damaged seat will cut through cartridges — have a plumber resurface or replace the seat.
Bottom Line
If you have Moen faucets, call Moen’s warranty line first — free cartridge, free fix. For other brands, buy the OEM cartridge for your specific faucet model. Third-party cartridges are cheaper but often fail sooner than OEM parts.