Howdens Bridge Valve Cartridge Set

Reliable and completely compatible with the Howdens Bridge, TapSparesUK's quality, replacement valves/cartridges are sold as a pair and will put paid to your tap dripping from the end of its spout.

Take care when removing your old valve

When removing an old tap valve, it is common for the brass retaining ring (also known as the bush) to come out attached to the valve. Although it may seem stuck, the bush can usually be removed and reused.

If the bush is difficult to separate from the old valve, apply a small amount of penetrating oil or WD-40 around the joint and leave it for a few minutes to work. Carefully loosen the bush, taking care not to damage the threads.

Once removed, screw the bush back into the tap body and tighten securely. You can then fit your replacement tap valve as normal.

If the bush is damaged or cannot be removed, a replacement bush may be required. One bush is required per valve.

Please see the image below (for illustration only; your valve and bush may differ slightly).

Bridge Lever Tap Valves

Important Information: Bridge Lever Tap Valves

Bridge lever tap valve opening directions

Bridge lever taps use ceramic valves differently from standard kitchen taps. On a standard tap, the handles usually sit vertically when OFF. On a bridge lever tap, the handles sit horizontally, pointing outwards, and both move inwards to turn the tap ON.

Because the handles are mounted on opposite sides of the tap, the valves must be fitted on opposite sides to ensure the handles operate in the correct direction.

The correct handle operation is:

Cold handle (right-hand side) turns clockwise to open.
Hot handle (left-hand side) turns anti-clockwise to open.

To achieve this, the valves must be fitted on opposite sides:

🔴 Hot valve (clockwise-opening valve) → fits the cold side (right)
🔵 Cold valve (anti-clockwise-opening valve) → fits the hot side (left)

If the valves are fitted on the matching side instead, the tap will still function, but the handles will operate in the wrong direction.

How To Replace Your Tap Valve

Replacing a tap valve is usually a quick and simple repair. Always turn off the water supply before starting.

1. Remove the handle
The handle is usually secured by a grub screw underneath the lever or a screw hidden behind the hot/cold indicator on the side of the lever. Remove the screw and gently pull the handle off.

2. Remove the valve cover / shroud if applicable
If your tap has a valve cover or shroud, unscrew and remove it.

3. Remove the old valve
Using a suitable spanner, turn the valve anticlockwise and remove it. If it is very tight, use a descaling solution, white vinegar, lemon juice or WD-40 to help loosen it. Allow it time to work before trying again. If a brass bush is fitted and comes out with the old valve, don't worry. It can usually be separated from the valve. If not, replacement bushes are available from us. Take care not to damage the threads.

4. Fit the new valve
Before fitting, compare the new valve with the old one to check the length, thread, splines and opening direction. Screw the new valve in by hand first to avoid cross-threading, then tighten with a suitable spanner. Do not overtighten.

5. Refit the handle and test
With the valve fully closed, refit the handle in its normal off position, making sure it is correctly aligned. Secure the handle and slowly turn the water back on. Check that the tap operates smoothly and the dripping has stopped.

Why Buy from TapSparesUK

For over 40 years, TapSpares UK has been designing and manufacturing quality kitchen taps and replacement tap parts. As one of the UK's leading specialists in replacement valves, cartridges, bushes and tap spares, we help homeowners, plumbers and installers repair leaking and dripping taps quickly and cost-effectively. Our parts are manufactured using premium brass and ceramic components for long-lasting performance, helping you save money while reducing waste.

Over 40 years of industry expertise.
12-month guarantee on all parts.
Premium brass and ceramic construction.
Vernier adaptors included where required.
Fast, free UK delivery direct from our factory.
Trusted by plumbers, installers and homeowners nationwide.
Installation guides available for many products.
Friendly UK technical support before and after your purchase.

We stock replacement parts for many leading kitchen tap brands, including Perrin & Rowe, Franke, Abode, John Lewis, Howdens, Wren, CDA, Bristan, San Marco and Carron Phoenix.

Not sure which tap spare part you need? Send images of your tap and/or valve via our Identify my tap form.