Easy Guide: When To Fix Or Replace Your Chicago Faucet Parts


In a commercial kitchen, everything that is used must be dependable to support the processes that go on within the kitchen. Chicago Faucets are very reliable and efficient, and therefore, many restaurants prefer them. However, like any other equipment, even the best faucets can deteriorate over time due to wear and tear. It is therefore important to know when to repair or replace a component to avoid unnecessary costs and time wastage. This guide will help you determine the right time to fix or replace your Chicago Faucet parts.

Signs You Should Repair Your Chicago Faucet Parts

Here are some common signs that your Chicago faucet parts might just need a repair:

1. Leaking Faucets

One of the most common issues in commercial kitchens is a leaking faucet. Not only does this waste water, but it also leads to the formation of stains on the countertop and the surrounding surfaces. Most of the time, leaks are due to the failure of seals, O-rings, or cartridges, which regulate the water flow and pressure.

What to Do: Look for wear on the O-rings and seals. If these components are damaged, replacing them should stop the leak. If the issue persists, the problem could be with the cartridge, which is responsible for regulating water flow and temperature. Replacing the cartridge will often solve this issue.

2. Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can slow down kitchen tasks and lead to inefficiency. The aerator is responsible for controlling the pressure and flow of water. Debris or mineral accumulation over time may clog the aerator, decreasing the flow of water. The spout can also become blocked.

What to Do: Begin by removing and cleaning the aerator to remove any mineral buildup or debris. Soaking it in vinegar can help dissolve blockages. If cleaning doesn’t work, replacing the aerator is the next step. similarly, check the spout for obstructions or damage and replace it if required.

3. Unusual Noises

Faucets that produce sounds such as whistling, rattling, or buzzing may be caused by problems with the actuators or hoses. Pumps regulate the flow of water and if there is a problem with the actuators, the pressure is likely to be abnormal and this leads to noises. Also, hoses may be blocked or develop some leakage problems and this may lead to noise making.

What to Do: If the noise continues, then the actuator may be damaged or blocked. The actuator replacement can also help to solve the problem of water flow and the noise that comes with it. Also, check for cracks or blockages on the hoses that may hinder the flow of water or the formation of air pockets.

4. Loose Handles

Loose handles are not ideal when it comes to controlling the flow of water, especially in a busy kitchen setting. Wear and tear on the handle assembly is usually the cause of this problem.

What to Do: Secure the handle in place by tightening the nuts or screws. The internal parts of the handle assembly might need to be replaced if the issue persists. Replacing the handle assembly will fix the problem and enhance the control of the faucet.

When to Replace Your Chicago Faucet Parts

Here are some common signs that your Chicago faucet parts might just need a replacement:

1. Corrosion or Significant Damage to the Spout or Handle Assembly

In a commercial kitchen, faucets are exposed to hot water, cleaning chemicals, and constant use, which can lead to corrosion. Once parts like the spout or handle assembly become corroded, they may not function correctly, and attempting to repair them may not be effective.

What to Do: If corrosion is severe, it is advisable to replace the affected parts. Damaged spouts and handles can lead to leaking, poor water flow, or even become a safety issue. Replacing these parts will make sure that the faucet is still working as it should and is safe to use.

2. Obsolete or Discontinued Parts

In case you have an older model of Chicago Faucet, it may be challenging to find replacement parts for some of the components, including cartridges, actuators, or hoses. It is not practical to fix the faucet any further if the necessary replacement parts are not on the market.

What to Do: It is best to replace the entire faucet if the replacement parts are unavailable. In the future, it will also be simpler to locate replacement components for a newer model than for an extremely old one.

3. Frequent Failures of the Vacuum Breaker

The vacuum breaker prevents water backflow, which is essential for maintaining sanitation standards in a commercial kitchen. If the vacuum breaker of your faucet is not working or is faulty, it may lead to the backflow of contaminated water into the clean water supply.

What to Do: If repeated repairs don't resolve the issue, replacing the vacuum breaker is essential to maintain food safety standards. A new vacuum breaker will prevent contamination and ensure compliance with health regulations.

4. Continuous Failures of Actuators or Cartridges

Actuators and cartridges are essential parts of the system that regulate water flow and temperature. If these parts are constantly failing even after being repaired, it may be an indication that they are worn out and cannot be repaired anymore.

What to Do: If the actuator or cartridge fails frequently, replacing these parts is a more cost-effective option. To maintain correct operation and restore the faucet's performance, new actuators and cartridges are required.

5. Complete Faucet Malfunction

If your faucet stops functioning altogether, it could be due to the failure of internal components like the cartridge, valve, or actuator. Attempting to fix the faucet at this stage might not be worth the cost or effort.

What to Do: When the faucet is completely non-functional, replacing it is often the most practical solution. Replacing the faucet will fix the problem of water flow and temperature regulation, so your kitchen will be able to continue functioning.


To ensure your Chicago faucet works as expected in your commercial kitchen, ensure that it undergoes regular inspection and maintenance. Knowing when to fix or replace a part is crucial in avoiding a major problem and increasing the faucet’s lifespan. The best choice for your kitchen can be obtained by hiring a professional expert if you are unsure.


Written by Allen Rode for PartsFe, your trusted source for a variety of high-quality commercial restaurant equipment, including sink and oven parts.


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