How to Change a Cartridge on a Moen Faucet | Step-by-Step Guide

AvatarByLiana Farrell Faucet Queries

Moen faucets are known for their durability and long lifespan, but even the best faucets eventually need to be repaired or replaced. One of the most common repairs is replacing the cartridge, which is the part of the faucet that controls the flow of water.

Replacing a Moen cartridge is a relatively simple task that can be completed in just a few minutes. In this article, we will walk you through the process step-by-step, so you can have your faucet back up and running in no time.

We’ll start by discussing what a cartridge is and why it’s important. Then, we’ll show you how to identify the type of cartridge in your faucet and how to remove it. Finally, we’ll walk you through the process of installing a new cartridge.

By the end of this article, you’ll have the confidence to replace a Moen cartridge yourself, saving you time and money. So let’s get started!

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Step Tools Instructions
1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet. – Adjustable wrench – Flathead screwdriver
2. Remove the handle covers. – Flathead screwdriver – Pliers
3. Remove the cartridge. – Allen wrench – Tape measure
4. Install the new cartridge. – New cartridge – Pipe wrench
5. Turn on the water supply to the faucet. – None – None

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How to Change a Cartridge on a Moen Faucet

Tools and Materials Needed

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Penetrating oil
  • New cartridge
  • Replacement washers (if needed)

Steps to Remove the Old Cartridge

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet. This is usually located under the sink.
2. Remove the handle covers. There are usually two screws on the front of the faucet that hold the handle covers in place. Remove these screws and set the covers aside.
3. Remove the cartridge. There is usually a setscrew on the back of the faucet that holds the cartridge in place. Use the adjustable wrench to loosen this setscrew and remove the cartridge.
4. Clean the faucet seat. The faucet seat is the flat surface on the inside of the faucet body where the cartridge sits. Use a clean cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris.
5. Install the new cartridge. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the O-rings on the new cartridge. Insert the cartridge into the faucet body and tighten the setscrew to secure it in place.
6. Replace the handle covers.
7. Turn on the water supply to the faucet and test it to make sure it is working properly.

Troubleshooting

If you are having trouble removing the old cartridge, you can try using a penetrating oil to loosen it. Apply the oil to the setscrew and let it sit for a few minutes. You can also try using a heat gun to warm up the faucet body. This will help to loosen the setscrew and make it easier to remove.

If you are having trouble installing the new cartridge, make sure that the O-rings are properly seated. You can also try using a little bit of grease to help the cartridge slide into place.

If the faucet is still not working properly after you have replaced the cartridge, you may need to call a plumber to diagnose the problem.

Changing a cartridge on a Moen faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can save yourself time and money by avoiding a call to a plumber.

Here are some additional tips for changing a cartridge on a Moen faucet:

  • If you are not comfortable working with plumbing fixtures, you can hire a plumber to do the job for you.
  • Make sure that you have the right tools and materials before you start the project.
  • Follow the steps in the instructions carefully.
  • If you have any questions, consult with a professional plumber.

How to Change a Cartridge on a Moen Faucet

Moen faucets are known for their durability and ease of maintenance. However, even the best faucets eventually need to be repaired or replaced. One of the most common repairs is to replace the cartridge. The cartridge is a small, cylindrical-shaped piece of plastic or metal that controls the flow of water through the faucet. If the cartridge becomes damaged or worn out, it can cause the faucet to leak or malfunction.

Changing a cartridge on a Moen faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in just a few minutes. However, it is important to follow the proper steps to avoid damaging the faucet.

Tools and Materials

To change a cartridge on a Moen faucet, you will need the following tools and materials:

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Flat-head screwdriver
  • Penetrating oil
  • New cartridge
  • Replacement washers (if needed)
  • Paper towels
  • Rag

Step 1: Turn off the Water Supply

The first step is to turn off the water supply to the faucet. This can be done by turning the shut-off valve located under the sink. Once the water supply is turned off, you can begin working on the faucet.

Step 2: Remove the Handle

The next step is to remove the handle from the faucet. To do this, you will need to use a flat-head screwdriver to pry off the decorative cap that covers the screws. Once the cap is removed, you can use the screwdriver to unscrew the screws that hold the handle in place. Once the screws are removed, you can lift the handle off of the faucet.

Step 3: Remove the Cartridge

Now that the handle is removed, you can access the cartridge. The cartridge is located in the center of the faucet body. To remove the cartridge, you will need to use an adjustable wrench to loosen the locknut that holds it in place. Once the locknut is loosened, you can pull the cartridge out of the faucet body.

Step 4: Clean the Faucet Body

Before installing the new cartridge, it is important to clean the faucet body. This will help to prevent any debris from getting into the new cartridge and causing it to malfunction. To clean the faucet body, you can use a paper towel and some warm, soapy water.

Step 5: Install the New Cartridge

Now that the faucet body is clean, you can install the new cartridge. To do this, you will need to align the cartridge with the faucet body and insert it into the slot. Once the cartridge is inserted, you can tighten the locknut to secure it in place.

Step 6: Reinstall the Handle

Now that the cartridge is installed, you can reinstall the handle. To do this, you will need to align the handle with the faucet body and insert the screws through the holes. Once the screws are inserted, you can tighten them with the screwdriver.

Step 7: Turn on the Water Supply

The final step is to turn on the water supply to the faucet. Once the water supply is turned on, you can test the faucet to make sure that it is working properly.

Changing a cartridge on a Moen faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in just a few minutes. By following these steps, you can easily repair your faucet and keep it working properly for years to come.

How do I know if my Moen faucet needs a new cartridge?

There are a few signs that your Moen faucet may need a new cartridge. These include:

  • The faucet is dripping even when it is turned off.
  • The faucet is leaking when it is turned on.
  • The faucet is difficult to turn on or off.
  • The water pressure from the faucet is low.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is likely that your Moen faucet needs a new cartridge.

How do I remove the old cartridge from my Moen faucet?

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the escutcheon (the decorative cover around the faucet) by unscrewing it counterclockwise.
3. Locate the cartridge housing. It is usually located under the spout of the faucet.
4. Remove the screws that hold the cartridge housing in place.
5. Pull the cartridge housing out of the faucet.
6. Remove the old cartridge by carefully pulling it out of the cartridge housing.

How do I install the new cartridge in my Moen faucet?

1. Make sure that the new cartridge is the correct size for your faucet.
2. Apply a thin coat of plumber’s grease to the O-rings on the new cartridge.
3. Insert the new cartridge into the cartridge housing.
4. Secure the cartridge housing in place with the screws that you removed earlier.
5. Replace the escutcheon.
6. Turn on the water supply to the faucet.

What are the common problems with Moen faucet cartridges?

The most common problems with Moen faucet cartridges include:

  • The cartridge becoming stuck in the faucet housing.
  • The cartridge leaking.
  • The cartridge wearing out and needing to be replaced.

How can I prevent problems with my Moen faucet cartridge?

There are a few things you can do to prevent problems with your Moen faucet cartridge, including:

  • Keep the faucet clean and free of debris.
  • Turn off the water supply to the faucet when it is not in use.
  • Replace the cartridge as soon as it starts to leak or malfunction.

By following these tips, you can help to extend the life of your Moen faucet cartridge and avoid costly repairs.

Changing a cartridge on a Moen faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following the steps in this guide, you can easily replace a worn or damaged cartridge and restore your faucet to its original working condition.

Here are the key takeaways from this guide:

  • Before you begin, make sure you have the right tools and materials.
  • Turn off the water supply to the faucet and drain the water from the faucet body.
  • Remove the old cartridge by unscrewing the retaining clips and pulling the cartridge out of the faucet body.
  • Install the new cartridge by inserting it into the faucet body and tightening the retaining clips.
  • Turn on the water supply to the faucet and test the faucet to make sure it is working properly.

By following these steps, you can easily change a cartridge on a Moen faucet and restore your faucet to its original working condition.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.