How to Reverse Water Direction in a Joint Spout

When you install a new joint-spout faucet in your sink or tub, the interior mechanisms of the faucet must be installed in the proper order and configuration. Many faucets where both temperatures come out of the same faucet include cartridges that dictate which temperature turns on with which handle. If the cartridge is installed incorrectly, you may find hot water coming from the cold handle and cold water coming from the hot handle instead.

Screwdriver
Pliers

Instructions

- 1
  Turn off the water with the valves under the sink. Turn the valves clockwise to turn the water off. If there are no valves under the sink, turn off the main water valve to your home.
- 2
  Remove the cover from the top of the handle. This cover exposes the screw that holds the handle assembly in place.
- 3
  Unscrew the screw inside the faucet handle. Put it aside in a safe place where it won't accidentally fall down the drain.
- 4
  Remove the retaining clip that holds the temperature cartridge in place.
- 5
  Pry the temperature cartridge out of the faucet, keeping it in the same position as it was in the faucet so you know which way to turn it.
- 6
  Turn the temperature cartridge a full 180 degrees and reinsert it in its new position. This will reverse the flow of the water through the faucet.
- 7
  Replace the retaining clip to hold the cartridge in place and screw the faucet back into place. Snap the handle cover back onto the faucet.
- 8
  Turn the water back on and test the faucet to ensure the proper temperature comes out at the right time.

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