Symptoms
- Faucet feels gritty or rough when turning
- Drip from the spout despite the handle being fully closed
- Faucet has a smooth, often lever-style single handle
- Leak developed gradually over several years of use
Likely causes
- CommonDebris scoring the ceramic discsSand or grit in the water supply can scratch the normally smooth ceramic surfaces.
- CommonWorn ceramic disc cartridgeEven durable ceramic cartridges eventually wear out after many years.
- PossibleMineral buildup between the discsCan prevent a full seal even if the discs aren't damaged.
- Less commonCracked ceramic discCan happen from a hard impact or manufacturing defect.
What to do
- Turn off the water supply and open the faucet to release pressure.
- Remove the handle to access the ceramic disc cartridge.
- Lift out the cartridge and inspect the disc surfaces for scratches, cracks, or visible grit.
- Rinse the cartridge under clean water and gently wipe the disc surfaces if only mildly gritty.
- If scratched, cracked, or still leaking after cleaning, replace the entire cartridge, since discs typically can't be repaired individually.
- Check for a small inline filter or screen at the faucet's water inlet and clean it if present, since grit there is often the root cause.
- Reinstall the cartridge, restore water, and test for smooth operation with no drips.
Tools and parts
- Screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
Ceramic disc cartridgeSearch: “ceramic disc faucet cartridge replacement [brand]”
When to call a pro
Call a plumber if grit continues to appear after cleaning, since it may point to a whole-house sediment issue worth addressing at the source.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.