How To Replace A Cartridge In Moen Bathroom Faucet

A dripping bathroom faucet is not only annoying, but it can also waste a lot of water and increase your water bill. If you have a Moen bathroom faucet, replacing the cartridge is a relatively easy and inexpensive way to fix a leak. Here are the steps on how to do it:

Materials you'll need:

Replacement cartridge for your Moen bathroom faucet
Adjustable wrench
Flathead screwdriver
Bucket or bowl for catching water

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet. There should be two shut-off valves under the sink, one for hot water and one for cold water. Turn both valves clockwise to shut off the water.

2. Open the faucet to release any remaining water in the lines.

3. Place a bucket or bowl under the faucet to catch any water that may leak out.

4. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the packing nut on the base of the faucet. The packing nut is the large nut that is located directly below the handle. Turn the packing nut counterclockwise to loosen it.

5. Use a flathead screwdriver to pry the handle off the faucet. There will be a small hole on the side of the handle. Insert the screwdriver into the hole and gently pry the handle off.

6. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the cartridge retaining nut. The cartridge retaining nut is located directly below the handle. Turn the cartridge retaining nut counterclockwise to loosen it.

7. Pull the old cartridge straight out of the faucet.

8. Insert the new cartridge into the faucet. Make sure that the new cartridge is oriented correctly. The cartridge should fit snugly into the faucet.

9. Tighten the cartridge retaining nut. Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the cartridge retaining nut clockwise. Do not overtighten the nut.

10. Replace the handle on the faucet. Push the handle onto the faucet until it snaps into place.

11. Tighten the packing nut. Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the packing nut clockwise. Do not overtighten the nut.

12. Turn on the water supply to the faucet. Check for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the packing nut or the cartridge retaining nut further.

Replacing a cartridge in a Moen bathroom faucet is a relatively easy repair that can be done in about 30 minutes. By following these steps, you can save yourself the cost of calling a plumber.