Nobili Rubinetterie RCR438
Nobili Rubinetterie RCR438 40mm Diameter Cartridge User Manual
Model: RCR438 | Brand: Nobili Rubinetterie
1. Introduction
This user manual provides essential information for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Nobili Rubinetterie RCR438 40mm Diameter Cartridge. This cartridge is a genuine spare part designed for Nobili Carlo Spa faucets, specifically for washbasin, bidet, and external bathtub applications. Please read this manual thoroughly before proceeding with installation or any maintenance to ensure proper function and longevity of the product.
2. Safety Information
Always prioritize safety when working with plumbing. Failure to follow these instructions may result in property damage or personal injury.
- Before starting any work, ensure the main water supply to the fixture is completely shut off.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and eye protection.
- If you are unsure about any step, consult a qualified plumber.
- Keep small parts away from children.
- Do not use excessive force when tightening components to avoid damage.
3. Product Overview
The Nobili Rubinetterie RCR438 is a ceramic disc cartridge, essential for controlling water flow and temperature in compatible Nobili faucets. Its 40mm diameter ensures compatibility with specific faucet models.

Figure 1: Nobili Rubinetterie RCR438 40mm Diameter Cartridge. This image shows the black and white cartridge with a metal stem at the top and two blue-ringed inlets at the bottom, designed for precise water mixing and flow control.
Components Included:
- 1 x Nobili Rubinetterie RCR438 40mm Diameter Cartridge
4. Installation
This section outlines the general steps for replacing a faucet cartridge. Specific faucet designs may vary, so refer to your faucet's original manual if available.
Tools Required (Not Included):
- Adjustable wrench or basin wrench
- Screwdriver (Phillips or flathead, depending on faucet)
- Pliers
- Rag or towel
- Bucket
- Silicone grease (optional, for O-rings)
Installation Steps:
- Shut off Water Supply: Locate the hot and cold water supply valves under the sink and turn them clockwise until fully closed. Turn on the faucet to drain any remaining water and confirm the supply is off.
- Remove Faucet Handle: Depending on your faucet model, you may need to pry off a decorative cap (often marked with hot/cold indicators) to expose a screw. Unscrew the handle and remove it.
- Remove Trim and Retaining Nut: Carefully remove any decorative trim, escutcheon, or retaining nuts that secure the cartridge in place. Use an adjustable wrench if necessary.
- Extract Old Cartridge: Gently pull the old cartridge straight up and out of the faucet body. It may require some wiggling or light prying. Note its orientation for correct installation of the new cartridge.
- Clean Faucet Body: Clean any mineral deposits or debris from the faucet body where the cartridge sits. This ensures a proper seal.
- Install New Cartridge: Insert the new Nobili RCR438 cartridge into the faucet body, ensuring it is correctly oriented. Align any tabs or notches on the cartridge with corresponding slots in the faucet body. Apply a thin layer of silicone grease to the O-rings if desired for easier installation and better sealing.
- Reassemble Faucet: Reattach the retaining nut, decorative trim, and finally the faucet handle. Tighten components securely but do not overtighten.
- Restore Water Supply: Slowly turn the hot and cold water supply valves back on. Check for any leaks around the faucet base and connections.
- Test Faucet: Operate the faucet handle to check water flow and temperature control. Flush the lines for a few minutes to clear any air or debris.
5. Operation
Once installed, the Nobili RCR438 cartridge functions as the core mechanism for your faucet's operation. It allows you to control both the volume and temperature of water flowing from the spout.
- Water Flow Control: Moving the faucet handle up or down (or left/right, depending on faucet design) will adjust the water flow from off to full on.
- Temperature Control: Rotating the faucet handle (typically left for hot, right for cold) mixes the hot and cold water supplies to achieve the desired temperature.
The ceramic discs within the cartridge provide a smooth, drip-free operation when functioning correctly.
6. Maintenance
The Nobili RCR438 cartridge is designed for durability and minimal maintenance. However, certain conditions can affect its lifespan.
- Water Quality: Hard water or water with high mineral content can lead to mineral buildup on the ceramic discs over time, potentially causing stiffness or leaks.
- Cleaning: Do not use abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals on your faucet, as these can damage the finish and potentially affect internal components. Clean the faucet exterior with a soft cloth and mild soap.
- Replacement: A cartridge typically needs replacement when the faucet starts to drip, becomes difficult to turn, or fails to mix hot and cold water properly. The lifespan varies depending on water quality and usage.
7. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your faucet after installing the new cartridge, consider the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Faucet Drips | Cartridge not seated correctly; damaged O-rings; faulty new cartridge. | Re-seat cartridge, check O-rings for damage and replace if necessary, ensure retaining nut is snug. If problem persists, the new cartridge may be defective. |
| Difficulty Turning Handle | Mineral buildup; O-rings dry or damaged; cartridge not aligned. | Remove and clean cartridge and faucet body. Apply silicone grease to O-rings. Ensure cartridge is correctly aligned. |
| No Hot/Cold Water or Incorrect Mix | Cartridge installed incorrectly (rotated); debris in water lines. | Re-check cartridge orientation during installation. Flush water lines. |
| Low Water Flow | Aerator clogged; debris in water lines; partially closed supply valves. | Clean or replace faucet aerator. Flush water lines. Ensure supply valves are fully open. |
If troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, it may be necessary to consult a professional plumber.
8. Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | RCR438 |
| Brand | Nobili Rubinetterie |
| Manufacturer | Nobili Carlo Rubinetterie |
| Cartridge Diameter | 40mm |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 28 x 18 x 8 cm (approx. 11 x 7.1 x 3.1 inches) |
| Item Weight | 180 grams (approx. 0.4 lbs) |
| Included Components | 1 x CR438 40mm diameter cartridge for washbasin/bidet/external bathtub |
| Color | Chromed (Note: refers to the faucet it's designed for, cartridge itself is black/white) |
9. Warranty and Support
Information regarding specific warranty terms for the Nobili Rubinetterie RCR438 cartridge is not available in the provided product details. For warranty claims or technical support, please contact Nobili Rubinetterie directly or the retailer from whom the product was purchased. Ensure you have your purchase receipt and product model number (RCR438) ready when contacting support.
Spare Parts Availability: Information regarding the availability of spare parts for this specific cartridge is currently unavailable.