How To Fix A Leaky Moen Bathroom Faucet Single Handle

How to Repair a Leaky Moen Single-Handle Bathroom Faucet

Moen bathroom faucets are renowned for their durability and efficiency. However, even the most reliable fixtures can develop leaks over time. A leaky faucet can not only waste water but also create an unsightly mess in your bathroom. If you find yourself dealing with a leaky Moen single-handle bathroom faucet, fret not. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you can tackle this repair project yourself.

Tools and Materials Required

Adjustable wrench
Phillips screwdriver
Flathead screwdriver or Allen wrench (depending on your faucet model)
Faucet repair kit (if necessary)
Plumber's tape
Teflon paste (optional)
Gloves (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

Before beginning any repairs, it's crucial to turn off the water supply to your faucet. Locate the shut-off valves beneath the sink and turn them clockwise to the closed position.

2. Remove the Handle

Next, remove the handle from the faucet. Depending on your faucet model, you may need to use a Phillips screwdriver or an Allen wrench to loosen the retaining screw located on the top or side of the handle.

3. Remove the Bonnet Nut

Once the handle is removed, you will see a large nut holding the faucet cartridge in place. This is called the bonnet nut. Use an adjustable wrench to carefully loosen the bonnet nut, but do not remove it completely.

4. Remove the Cartridge

With the bonnet nut loosened, you should be able to pull out the cartridge. If it's stuck, you can use a pair of pliers to gently wiggle it loose. Inspect the cartridge for any signs of damage or wear.

5. Replace the Cartridge or O-Rings

If the cartridge is damaged, you will need to replace it with a new one. If the O-rings on the cartridge are worn or damaged, you can simply replace the O-rings using a faucet repair kit.

6. Apply Teflon Paste (Optional)

As an optional step, you can apply a small amount of Teflon paste to the threads of the new cartridge or the O-rings to ensure a watertight seal.

7. Reinstall the Cartridge

Insert the new or repaired cartridge back into the faucet body. Push it firmly into place and tighten the bonnet nut using an adjustable wrench. Do not overtighten.

8. Reinstall the Handle

Place the handle back onto the faucet and tighten the retaining screw using a Phillips screwdriver or an Allen wrench.

9. Turn On the Water Supply

Once the handle is installed, slowly turn on the water supply beneath the sink to check for leaks. If there are no leaks, congratulations! You have successfully repaired the leaky Moen single-handle bathroom faucet.

Additional Tips

If you are replacing the cartridge, ensure you purchase the correct type and model for your specific Moen faucet.
Use plumber's tape on all threaded connections to prevent leaks.
If you are not comfortable performing this repair yourself, contact a licensed plumber for assistance.

By following these steps, you can save yourself time, money, and hassle by repairing your leaky Moen bathroom faucet yourself. Remember to approach the task with care and patience, and you'll be rewarded with a fully functional faucet that will continue to serve you for years to come.