How to Replace a Moen Faucet Cartridge | Step-by-Step Guide

AvatarByLiana Farrell Faucet Queries

Moen Faucet Cartridge Replacement: A Step-by-Step Guide

Your Moen faucet is one of the most important fixtures in your home. It’s the first thing you see when you walk into the bathroom or kitchen, and it’s the one you use to get ready in the morning and clean up after a long day. But what happens when your faucet starts to leak or drip? If you’ve ever had to deal with a broken faucet, you know that it can be a major pain. But it doesn’t have to be! With a little know-how, you can easily replace a Moen faucet cartridge in just a few minutes.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of replacing a Moen faucet cartridge step-by-step. We’ll cover everything you need to know, from identifying the right cartridge for your faucet to actually completing the replacement. So if you’re ready to get started, let’s get started!

How To Change A Moen Faucet Cartridge?

| Step | Task | Tools |
|—|—|—|
| 1 | Shut off the water supply to the faucet. | Adjustable wrench |
| 2 | Remove the old cartridge. | Flathead screwdriver |
| 3 | Insert the new cartridge. | Pliers |
| 4 | Turn on the water supply to the faucet. | |

How to Change a Moen Faucet Cartridge?

Moen faucets are known for their durability and longevity, but even the best faucets eventually need to be repaired or replaced. If your Moen faucet is leaking, dripping, or not turning on or off properly, it may be time to replace the cartridge.

Replacing a Moen faucet cartridge is a relatively simple DIY project that can be completed in about 30 minutes. However, it is important to follow the steps carefully to avoid damaging the faucet.

Tools and Materials Needed

  • Replacement Moen faucet cartridge
  • Adjustable wrench
  • Penetrating oil
  • Rag
  • Screwdriver
  • Tape measure

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet. This is usually done by turning the shut-off valves located under the sink.
2. Remove the faucet handle. There are two screws located on the back of the faucet handle. Use the screwdriver to loosen these screws and remove the handle.
3. Remove the faucet escutcheon. The escutcheon is the decorative cover that surrounds the faucet base. It is usually held in place by two screws. Use the screwdriver to loosen these screws and remove the escutcheon.
4. Locate the cartridge housing. The cartridge housing is the cylindrical-shaped part of the faucet that contains the cartridge. It is usually located behind the faucet spout.
5. Remove the cartridge housing cover. The cartridge housing cover is a small, round cap that is located on the top of the cartridge housing. It is held in place by a small screw. Use the screwdriver to loosen this screw and remove the cover.
6. Remove the cartridge. The cartridge is a small, plastic or metal cylinder that is located inside the cartridge housing. It is held in place by a small set screw. Use the screwdriver to loosen this screw and remove the cartridge.
7. Install the new cartridge. Align the new cartridge with the cartridge housing and insert it into the housing. Tighten the set screw to secure the cartridge in place.
8. Replace the cartridge housing cover. Replace the cartridge housing cover and tighten the screw to secure it in place.
9. Replace the faucet escutcheon. Replace the faucet escutcheon and tighten the screws to secure it in place.
10. Turn on the water supply to the faucet.

Replacing a Moen faucet cartridge is a relatively simple DIY project that can be completed in about 30 minutes. However, it is important to follow the steps carefully to avoid damaging the faucet. If you are not comfortable with DIY projects, it is best to hire a professional plumber to replace the cartridge for you.

Here are some additional tips for replacing a Moen faucet cartridge:

  • Use penetrating oil to loosen the set screw on the cartridge. This will make it easier to remove the cartridge.
  • Be careful not to damage the O-rings on the cartridge. These O-rings help to seal the cartridge in the housing and prevent leaks.
  • If you are replacing the cartridge with a different type of cartridge, be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions for installation. Some cartridges require different installation procedures than others.
  • If you are having trouble replacing the cartridge, do not force it. It is possible that the cartridge is damaged and needs to be replaced.

By following these tips, you can easily replace a Moen faucet cartridge and get your faucet back in working order.

How To Change A Moen Faucet Cartridge?

Moen faucets are known for their durability and dependability, but even the best faucets can eventually wear out. If your Moen faucet is leaking or dripping, it may be time to replace the cartridge. This is a relatively simple task that can be completed in just a few minutes.

Here are the steps on how to change a Moen faucet 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 back of the handle. Remove these screws and carefully pry off the covers.
3. Remove the stem. There is a small screw in the center of the stem. Remove this screw and carefully pull out the stem.
4. Remove the old cartridge. The cartridge is located in the body of the faucet. It is held in place by a small clip. Use a small screwdriver to pry up the clip and remove the cartridge.
5. Install the new cartridge. Make sure the new cartridge is the same size and type as the old one. Insert the cartridge into the body of the faucet and secure it with the clip.
6. Replace the stem. Insert the stem into the body of the faucet and secure it with the screw.
7. Replace the handle covers. Carefully snap the handle covers back into place.
8. Turn on the water supply to the faucet. Test the faucet to make sure it is working properly.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you are having trouble changing the cartridge in your Moen faucet, here are a few troubleshooting tips:

  • Make sure you have the right tools. You will need a small screwdriver, a pair of pliers, and a wrench.
  • Be careful not to damage the faucet. The cartridge is a delicate part, so be careful not to drop it or damage it.
  • If you are still having trouble, you can call a professional plumber. A plumber can quickly and easily change the cartridge for you.

Additional Information

Here are a few additional things to keep in mind when changing a Moen faucet cartridge:

  • The cartridge is a wear item, so it will eventually need to be replaced. The average lifespan of a Moen cartridge is about 10 years.
  • If you live in an area with hard water, you may need to replace the cartridge more often. Hard water can cause the cartridge to wear out faster.
  • You can purchase Moen faucet cartridges at most home improvement stores. You can also order them online.

Changing a Moen faucet cartridge is a relatively simple task that can be completed in just a few minutes. By following these steps, you can easily keep your Moen faucet in good working order.

How do I know if my Moen faucet cartridge needs to be replaced?

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

  • The faucet is dripping even when it is turned off.
  • The faucet is not turning on or off smoothly.
  • The water pressure is low.
  • The faucet is making a whistling or gurgling noise.

If you notice any of these signs, it is a good idea to have the cartridge replaced.

How do I remove the old cartridge?

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Locate the cartridge housing under the faucet handle.
3. Remove the screws that hold the cartridge housing in place.
4. Pull the cartridge housing straight out.
5. Remove the old cartridge from the housing.

How do I install the new cartridge?

1. Apply a thin coat of plumber’s grease to the O-rings on the new cartridge.
2. Insert the new cartridge into the housing.
3. Align the tabs on the cartridge with the slots in the housing.
4. Press the cartridge into the housing until it is snug.
5. Replace the screws that hold the cartridge housing in place.
6. Turn on the water supply to the faucet.

What are the common mistakes people make when replacing a Moen faucet cartridge?

There are a few common mistakes people make when replacing a Moen faucet cartridge. These include:

  • Not turning off the water supply to the faucet. This can result in water damage to your home.
  • Not removing the old cartridge completely. This can cause the new cartridge to leak.
  • Not using plumber’s grease on the O-rings. This can cause the new cartridge to leak.
  • Not aligning the tabs on the cartridge with the slots in the housing. This can cause the new cartridge to be difficult to install.

How can I prevent my Moen faucet cartridge from needing to be replaced as often?

There are a few things you can do to prevent your Moen faucet cartridge from needing to be replaced as often. These include:

  • Keep the faucet clean and free of debris.
  • Avoid using harsh chemicals on the faucet.
  • Turn off the water supply to the faucet when it is not in use.
  • Replace the cartridge every 5-10 years.

By following these tips, you can help extend the life of your Moen faucet cartridge.

Changing a Moen faucet cartridge is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following the steps in this guide, you can easily replace your old cartridge with a new one and have your faucet working like new again.

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 before you start work.
  • Remove the old cartridge by carefully unscrewing it counterclockwise.
  • Clean the faucet body and seat before installing the new cartridge.
  • Apply a thin coat of plumber’s grease to the O-rings on the new cartridge.
  • Insert the new cartridge into the faucet body and tighten it clockwise until it is snug.
  • Turn on the water supply to the faucet and test it to make sure it is working properly.

By following these steps, you can easily change a Moen faucet cartridge and have your faucet working like new again.

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.