How to Change a Moen Bathroom Faucet Cartridge: A Step-by-Step Guide

AvatarByLiana Farrell Faucet Queries

How to Change the Cartridge in a Moen Bathroom Faucet

Your Moen bathroom faucet is one of the most-used fixtures in your home, so it’s important to keep it in good working order. One of the most common problems with Moen faucets is a worn-out cartridge. If your faucet is dripping, leaking, or not turning on or off properly, it’s likely that the cartridge needs to be replaced.

Changing the cartridge in a Moen bathroom faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in just a few minutes. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to do it, so you can get your faucet back up and running in no time.

What You’ll Need

To change the cartridge in a Moen bathroom faucet, you’ll need the following tools and materials:

  • A Phillips head screwdriver
  • A flathead screwdriver
  • A pair of pliers
  • A new Moen cartridge
  • Teflon tape
  • Penetrating oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Remove the escutcheon plate from the faucet by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place.
3. Locate the cartridge housing. It’s a cylindrical-shaped metal or plastic part that’s usually located behind the handle.
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 from the housing.
7. Apply a thin layer of Teflon tape to the threads of the new cartridge.
8. Insert the new cartridge into the housing.
9. Replace the cartridge housing and tighten the screws.
10. Turn on the water supply to the faucet and test it to make sure it’s working properly.

Changing the cartridge in a Moen bathroom faucet is a simple task that can be completed in just a few minutes. By following these steps, you can get your faucet back up and running in no time.

Step Instructions Image
1 Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2 Remove the handle from the faucet by unscrewing it.
3 Remove the old cartridge by unscrewing it.
4 Insert the new cartridge into the faucet and tighten it.
5 Replace the handle on the faucet and turn on the water supply.

How to Change the Cartridge in a Moen Bathroom Faucet

Tools and Materials Needed

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

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Phillips head screwdriver
  • Replacement cartridge
  • Penetrating oil
  • Rag

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet. This is usually located under the sink.
2. Remove the escutcheon plate from the faucet. This is the decorative cover that surrounds the faucet base. It is typically held in place by two screws.
3. Locate the cartridge. The cartridge is a small, cylindrical-shaped part that is located inside the faucet body. It is typically held in place by a retaining clip.
4. Use a flathead screwdriver to pry up the retaining clip.
5. Remove the old cartridge. Be careful not to damage the O-rings.
6. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the new cartridge.
7. Insert the new cartridge into the faucet body.
8. Replace the retaining clip.
9. Replace the escutcheon plate.
10. Turn on the water supply to the faucet.

Troubleshooting

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

  • Make sure that you have turned off the water supply to the faucet.
  • Make sure that you have located the cartridge.
  • Make sure that you are using the correct tools and materials.
  • Be careful not to damage the O-rings.
  • If you are still having trouble, you may need to contact a qualified plumber.

Changing the cartridge in a Moen bathroom faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can ensure that your faucet is working properly and that you are getting the most out of your water.

How to Change the Cartridge in a Moen Bathroom Faucet

Moen bathroom faucets are known for their durability and reliability, but even the best faucets can eventually wear out. If your Moen bathroom faucet is leaking or dripping, it may be time to replace the cartridge. Replacing the cartridge is a relatively simple task that can be completed in about 15 minutes.

Tools and Materials

To replace the cartridge in a Moen bathroom faucet, you will need the following tools and materials:

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • New Moen cartridge
  • Penetrating oil
  • Rag

Instructions

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Locate the cartridge housing under the spout of the faucet.
3. Remove the screws that hold the cartridge housing in place.
4. Use a flathead screwdriver to pry open the cartridge housing.
5. Remove the old cartridge.
6. Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the new cartridge.
7. Insert the new cartridge into the cartridge housing.
8. Replace the screws that hold the cartridge housing in place.
9. Turn on the water supply to the faucet.

Troubleshooting

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

  • Make sure that you have the correct tools and materials.
  • Follow the instructions carefully.
  • If you are still having trouble, contact a qualified plumber.

Additional Tips and Tricks
  • To prevent future problems, you can clean the cartridge in your Moen bathroom faucet every few months. To do this, simply remove the cartridge and soak it in a vinegar solution for a few minutes.
  • If your Moen bathroom faucet is leaking from the base, it may be due to a worn-out O-ring. To fix this problem, you can replace the O-ring.
  • If your Moen bathroom faucet is dripping from the spout, it may be due to a loose or damaged washer. To fix this problem, you can tighten the washer or replace it.

    • Replacing the cartridge in a Moen bathroom faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in about 15 minutes. By following these instructions, you can easily extend the life of your faucet and keep it working properly.

    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.

    • The faucet is dripping even when it is turned off.
    • The faucet is not able to shut off completely.
    • The water pressure is low.
    • The faucet is making a rattling or grinding 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. Remove the handle by unscrewing the setscrews on the back of the faucet.
    3. Remove the decorative cap from the end of the faucet stem.
    4. Use a cartridge removal tool to remove the old cartridge.
    5. Clean the faucet seat and O-ring.
    6. Install the new cartridge.
    7. Replace the decorative cap and handle.
    8. Turn on the water supply to the faucet.

    How do I install the new cartridge?

    1. Make sure that the new cartridge is the correct size and type for your faucet.
    2. Clean the faucet seat and O-ring.
    3. Apply a thin coat of plumber’s grease to the O-ring.
    4. Insert the new cartridge into the faucet stem.
    5. Use a cartridge installation tool to seat the cartridge.
    6. Replace the decorative cap and handle.
    7. 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 are:

    • The cartridge becomes worn out and leaks.
    • The cartridge becomes stuck and cannot be removed.
    • The cartridge is not the correct size or type for the faucet.

    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:

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

    Where can I buy a Moen faucet cartridge?

    Moen faucet cartridges can be purchased at most home improvement stores. You can also order them online from Moen’s website or from a variety of other retailers.

    How much does a Moen faucet cartridge cost?

    The cost of a Moen faucet cartridge varies depending on the type and size of the cartridge. Cartridges typically range in price from $10 to $20.

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

    Here are the key takeaways from this guide:

    • Before you begin, make sure you have the proper tools and materials on hand.
    • Turn off the water supply to the faucet before you start working.
    • Remove the old cartridge by carefully unscrewing it counterclockwise.
    • Clean the faucet body and seat with a damp cloth.
    • Install the new cartridge by screwing it clockwise into the faucet body.
    • Turn on the water supply and test the faucet to make sure it is working properly.

    By following these steps, you can easily change the cartridge in your Moen bathroom faucet and keep your faucet functioning properly for years to come.

    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.