By Caleb MorganUpdated November 2026
Finding the right cartridge for Kohler faucet repairs starts with knowing which part your faucet actually uses. Kohler has made many valve styles over the years, and a cartridge that fits one model may not seat properly in another. This list is built around the selection criteria most homeowners care about: compatibility with the listed Kohler model numbers, the valve type (ceramic disc or pressure-balance), whether the part is labeled as a genuine Kohler component, how easy it is to install in a one-piece or two-piece design, and the consistency of owner feedback on fit and leak control.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallKOHLER Rite-Temp Pressure Balance Cartridge, Genuine Part GP800881View on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for ceramic hot and cold replacementCartridge for Kohler K-GP77005-RP & K-GP77006-RP Faucet Ceramic Valve, 2 PackView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for upgraded brass constructionK-GP77005-RP K-GP77006-RP Ceramic Valve, Hot and Cold Faucet CartridgeView on Amazon - 4
Best for a matched hot and cold setHot and Cold Faucet Cartridges Replacements, Ceramic Valve, 20-Tooth Spline SetView on Amazon - 5
Best for a single-side replacementDirect Replacement for Kohler Cold Faucets Cartridges, K-GP77006-RP (COLD)View on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| KOHLER Rite-Temp Pressure Balance Cartridge | Owners wanting a genuine Kohler part | One-piece design, genuine part GP800881 |
| Cartridge for Kohler K-GP77005-RP and K-GP77006-RP Faucet Ceramic Valve | Hot and cold ceramic valve replacement | Ceramic valve, two-pack |
| K-GP77005-RP K-GP77006-RP Ceramic Valve, 2 Pack | Buyers prioritizing brass construction | Brass body, upgraded ceramic cartridge |
| Hot and Cold Faucet Cartridges Replacements | Matching both sides in one order | 20-tooth spline set |
| Direct replacement for Kohler Cold Faucets Cartridges | Replacing only the cold side | Ceramic cold-side cartridge |
KOHLER Rite-Temp Pressure Balance Cartridge, Genuine Part GP800881
KOHLER Rite-Temp Pressure Balance Cartridge, Genuine Part GP800881, One-Piece Design Simplifies Installation and Maintenance
Best for: Owners who want a genuine Kohler component and a one-piece design
This is the option for anyone who wants to stay close to the original factory part. It suits people replacing a pressure-balance valve who want the scald-protection behavior the Rite-Temp design is built for. Because the listing names the genuine part number, it is the easiest choice to verify against a faucet’s existing parts.
Key specs
- Manufacturer part number GP800881
- Pressure-balance (Rite-Temp) valve design
- One-piece cartridge construction
Pros
- Genuine Kohler part number, which simplifies compatibility checks
- One-piece design reduces the number of small parts to misplace
- Matches the original temperature-control behavior of Rite-Temp valves
Cons
- Only suitable if your faucet uses a Rite-Temp pressure-balance valve
- Owners sometimes report it is not interchangeable with ceramic-disc faucets
Bottom line: Best for homeowners who have confirmed their faucet uses a Rite-Temp pressure-balance valve and want an original-style part.
Cartridge for Kohler K-GP77005-RP & K-GP77006-RP Faucet Ceramic Valve, 2 Pack
Cartridge for Kohler K-GP77005-RP & K-GP77006-RP Faucet Ceramic Valve, Hot and Cold Faucet Cartridge Replacement Parts, 2 Pack Ceramic Valve Replacement – Brass
Best for: Hot and cold ceramic valve replacement on matching model numbers
This two-pack targets the K-GP77005-RP and K-GP77006-RP ceramic valve cartridges. It fits owners who have already identified those model numbers on the valve or the faucet’s documentation and want both hot and cold sides replaced at once.
Key specs
- Compatible with Kohler K-GP77005-RP and K-GP77006-RP
- Ceramic valve design
- Sold as a 2-pack
Pros
- Covers both hot and cold sides in one purchase
- Ceramic disc design is generally associated with smooth handle action
- Clear compatibility with specific Kohler model numbers
Cons
- Fit depends on confirming the exact model number before ordering
- Aftermarket parts are not Kohler-branded
Bottom line: A solid choice for a full hot-and-cold ceramic replacement once the model number is confirmed.
K-GP77005-RP K-GP77006-RP Ceramic Valve, Hot and Cold Faucet Cartridge Replacement Parts, 2 Pack, Brass
K-GP77005-RP K-GP77006-RP Ceramic Valve, Hot and Cold Faucet Cartridge Replacement Parts, 2 Pack, Brass Upgraded Faucet Ceramic Cartridge for Kohler K-GP77005-RP & K-GP77006-RP
Best for: Buyers who want a brass-bodied ceramic replacement
This version is positioned as an upgraded brass ceramic cartridge for the same K-GP77005-RP and K-GP77006-RP model numbers. It appeals to owners who want a heavier, more durable body than a plastic-housed valve.
Key specs
- Compatible with Kohler K-GP77005-RP and K-GP77006-RP
- Brass construction
- Ceramic valve, sold as a 2-pack
Pros
- Brass body is commonly preferred for durability
- Two cartridges per order cover both hot and cold sides
- Same model-number compatibility as the ceramic set
Cons
- Verify the spline and orientation against your old cartridge before installing
- Not a genuine Kohler part
Bottom line: Good for owners who prioritize a brass body and want both sides replaced together.
Hot and Cold Faucet Cartridges Replacements, Ceramic Valve, 20-Tooth Spline Set
Hot & Cold Faucet Cartridges Replacements, Ceramic Valve, Spline Length 20 teeth Faucet Cartridges Set for Kohler K-GP77006-RP & K-GP77005-RP
Best for: Matching both sides in one order with a specified spline count
This set is listed for Kohler K-GP77006-RP and K-GP77005-RP and calls out a 20-tooth spline. The spline count matters because it determines how the cartridge indexes to the handle, so this listing is useful for owners who want to match that detail before ordering.
Key specs
- Compatible with Kohler K-GP77006-RP and K-GP77005-RP
- 20-tooth spline
- Ceramic valve, hot and cold set
Pros
- Spline count is stated in the listing, helping with fit checks
- Hot and cold set in one order
- Ceramic design for controlled handle movement
Cons
- Spline must match your existing cartridge exactly
- Aftermarket part, so no manufacturer warranty from Kohler
Bottom line: Best if you have counted your spline teeth and want a matched hot and cold pair.
Direct Replacement for Kohler Cold Faucets Cartridges, K-GP77006-RP (COLD)
Direct replacement for Kohler Cold Faucets Cartridges, Made of High-Quality Materials and Ceramic K-GP77006-RP(COLD) Faucet Cartridges for Kohler Faucet Ceramic Valve
Best for: Replacing only the cold side of a Kohler faucet
This listing is for a single cold-side ceramic cartridge tied to the K-GP77006-RP (COLD) designation. It suits owners whose hot side is still working well and who only need to address a leak or stiff handle on the cold side.
Key specs
- Compatible with Kohler K-GP77006-RP (COLD)
- Ceramic valve cartridge
- Single cold-side part
Pros
- Lets you replace only the failing side
- Lower commitment if only one side is leaking
- Ceramic construction for smooth operation
Cons
- Not suitable if both sides are worn, since the hot side would remain old
- Confirm the cold-side label on your existing cartridge first
Bottom line: Right for a cold-side-only failure when the hot side is still sealing well.
Buying Guide
Confirm the Model Number and Valve Type
Before buying any cartridge for Kohler faucet repairs, locate the model number stamped on the old cartridge or listed in the faucet’s manual. Kohler cartridges are not interchangeable across all faucet families, and a part with the wrong spline or stem height will not seat. Identify whether your valve is a ceramic disc or a pressure-balance type, since those internal designs differ.
Good picks for this: KOHLER Rite-Temp Pressure Balance Cartridge and Cartridge for Kohler K-GP77005-RP and K-GP77006-RP Faucet Ceramic Valve
Check the Spline Count
The spline is the set of teeth on the cartridge stem that engages the handle. Count the teeth on your old cartridge and compare them against the listing. A mismatch of even one tooth can leave the handle pointing the wrong direction or fail to lock into the correct temperature range.
Good picks for this: Hot and Cold Faucet Cartridges Replacements, 20-Tooth Spline Set and K-GP77005-RP K-GP77006-RP Ceramic Valve, Brass
Decide Between Hot-and-Cold Pairs and Single Cartridges
If both sides show wear, buying a matched pair keeps hot and cold response consistent. If only one side drips or feels stiff, a single cold-side or hot-side cartridge may be enough. Mixing a new cartridge with a heavily worn one can produce uneven flow and temperature.
Good picks for this: Direct replacement for Kohler Cold Faucets Cartridges and Hot and Cold Faucet Cartridges Replacements, 20-Tooth Spline Set
Compare Body Material
Cartridge bodies are commonly brass or plastic-housed. Brass bodies are often preferred for resisting wear and maintaining a firm fit in the valve body. Ceramic discs inside the cartridge handle the sealing; the outer housing determines long-term structural durability.
Good picks for this: K-GP77005-RP K-GP77006-RP Ceramic Valve, Brass and KOHLER Rite-Temp Pressure Balance Cartridge
Match Genuine vs. Aftermarket Parts
Genuine Kohler parts carry the manufacturer’s part number and are the most straightforward for compatibility. Aftermarket cartridges can work well when the model number and spline are confirmed, but you take on more responsibility for verifying fit. Keep your old part for side-by-side comparison.
Good picks for this: KOHLER Rite-Temp Pressure Balance Cartridge and Cartridge for Kohler K-GP77005-RP and K-GP77006-RP Faucet Ceramic Valve
Think About Installation Difficulty
One-piece cartridges are generally simpler to remove and seat than multi-part assemblies, because there are fewer loose components. Plan to shut off both supply valves, relieve line pressure by running the faucet, and keep a cartridge puller or the manufacturer’s removal tool nearby if the old part is stuck.
Good picks for this: KOHLER Rite-Temp Pressure Balance Cartridge and Cartridge for Kohler K-GP77005-RP and K-GP77006-RP Faucet Ceramic Valve
Consider Durability and Long-Term Care
Mineral-heavy water shortens cartridge life. Flushing the valve seat and keeping aerators clean helps. A replacement cartridge is the right fix for drips and stiff handles, but if the valve body itself is pitted, a new cartridge alone may not seal.
Good picks for this: K-GP77005-RP K-GP77006-RP Ceramic Valve, Brass and Hot and Cold Faucet Cartridges Replacements, 20-Tooth Spline Set
FAQ
How do I know which cartridge for Kohler faucet I need?
Remove the old cartridge and read the stamped model number, or check the faucet’s manual. Count the spline teeth and note whether the valve is ceramic or pressure-balance. Matching these three details is the most reliable way to pick the correct part.
Can one cartridge fit all Kohler faucets?
No. Kohler uses several valve families, and cartridges differ in stem height, spline count and internal design. Always confirm compatibility with your specific model before ordering.
Do I need to replace both hot and cold cartridges?
Not always. If only one side drips or feels stiff, replacing that side may be enough. If both sides are worn, replacing both keeps temperature response consistent.
What tools do I need to replace a Kohler cartridge?
Most jobs require an adjustable wrench, a screwdriver, a clip or cartridge retaining tool, and plumber’s grease. A cartridge puller helps if the old part is stuck. Shut off the water supply before starting.
Why does my faucet still drip after replacing the cartridge?
Common causes include debris on the valve seat, a damaged O-ring, or an incorrect cartridge orientation. Flush the valve, check the seals, and confirm the part is fully seated. If the valve body is corroded, consult a licensed plumber.
Are aftermarket cartridges as good as genuine Kohler parts?
Quality varies by product. Owners often report good results when the model number and spline are confirmed, but genuine parts remain the most predictable choice for exact fit.
Conclusion
For a genuine Kohler component on a Rite-Temp pressure-balance faucet, the KOHLER Rite-Temp Pressure Balance Cartridge is the most direct match. For ceramic hot-and-cold replacement on the K-GP77005-RP or K-GP77006-RP models, the two-pack listings give you the most complete coverage, with the brass version suiting buyers who want a sturdier body. If only the cold side is failing, the single cold-side cartridge keeps the job small. Whatever you choose, confirm the model number and spline count before ordering, and if you are unsure about the valve type, consult a licensed plumber.
Sources
- Guidance on water conservation and fixing leaking household faucets (epa.gov)
- Certification standards for drinking water system components and materials (nsf.org)
- Plumbing code and product standards relevant to faucet valves
Related reading
- Kohler Simplice Pulldown Kitchen Faucet Review: Features and Performance
- Kohler Simplice Kitchen Faucet: Features, Fit and Fixes for Owners
- Kohler Purist Lav Faucet: Install, Adjust and Fix It Step by Step
- Kohler Purist Bath Faucet: Install, Fix and Maintain It Step by Step
- Kohler Kitchen Faucet Parts: How to Identify and Replace the Right Ones
- Kohler Faucet Valve Repair: 4 Best Kits Compared (2026)
About Caleb Morgan
Caleb Morgan is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our kitchen faucets & sinks guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
