How To Replace Moen Two Handle Bathroom Faucet

How to Replace a Moen Two-Handle Bathroom Faucet

Replacing a Moen two-handle bathroom faucet is a relatively straightforward plumbing project that can be tackled by most homeowners with basic DIY skills. This guide will provide step-by-step instructions to help you successfully replace your old faucet with a new one. Before starting the project, it's essential to gather the necessary tools and materials and to understand the basic components of a two-handle bathroom faucet.

Tools and Materials

Before beginning the installation process, ensure you have the following tools and materials ready:

Adjustable wrench
Channel-lock pliers
Phillips screwdriver
Flathead screwdriver
Plumber's tape
Basin wrench
New Moen two-handle bathroom faucet
New faucet supply lines (if necessary)
Optional: Caulking gun and silicone sealant

Steps to Replace the Moen Two-Handle Bathroom Faucet

Follow these steps carefully to replace your Moen two-handle bathroom faucet:

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

Locate the shut-off valves for the hot and cold water supply lines to the faucet. These valves are typically located under the sink or on the wall behind the faucet. Turn the valves clockwise to shut off the water supply. To ensure the water is completely off, turn on the faucet for a few seconds. If no water flows, then the supply is off.

2. Disconnect the Supply Lines

Use an adjustable wrench to disconnect the water supply lines from the faucet. The supply lines are typically attached to the faucet with compression nuts. Unscrew the nuts counterclockwise to detach the lines. It's helpful to use channel-lock pliers to hold the supply lines in place while loosening the nuts with the adjustable wrench.

3. Disconnect the Drain Assembly

If your current faucet has a pop-up drain assembly, you'll need to disconnect it before removing the faucet. Unscrew the drain assembly from the faucet body using a channel-lock pliers. Remove the drain stopper from the drain assembly.

4. Remove the Old Faucet

Once the supply lines and drain assembly are disconnected, you can remove the old faucet. Use a basin wrench to loosen the mounting nuts that secure the faucet to the sink. The mounting nuts are located on the underside of the sink. If the mounting nuts are difficult to access, you may need to use a combination of a basin wrench and channel-lock pliers. Once the mounting nuts are loosened, gently lift the faucet up and out of the sink.

5. Install the New Faucet

Now, it's time to install the new Moen faucet. Ensure the mounting holes in the sink align with the mounting holes on the new faucet. Place the new faucet over the holes and secure it using the mounting nuts. Tighten the nuts with the basin wrench until the faucet is securely in place.

6. Connect the Supply Lines

Using the new supply lines (if needed) or the old ones if compatible with the new faucet, attach the supply lines to the faucet. Wrap the threads of the supply lines with plumber's tape to prevent leaks. Screw the supply lines onto the faucet using an adjustable wrench. Make sure the supply lines are securely attached and hand-tighten them before using the wrench.

7. Connect the Drain Assembly

If you have a pop-up drain assembly, attach it to the new faucet. Ensure the drain assembly is securely attached and the drain stopper functions correctly. If the new faucet doesn't have a pop-up drain assembly, you'll need to purchase a new drain assembly separately and install it.

8. Turn the Water Supply Back On

Once the new faucet is installed and all connections are secured, slowly turn the water supply valves back on. Check for leaks at the supply lines, faucet, and drain assembly. If there are any leaks, tighten the connections or apply additional plumber's tape.

9. Clean Up

Clean up any debris or water spills from the installation process. Remove any excess plumber's tape and dispose of it properly. Test the new faucet to ensure that the hot and cold water flow correctly and that the drain assembly operates properly.

Additional Tips for Replacing a Moen Two-Handle Bathroom Faucet

Here are some additional tips to help you successfully replace your Moen two-handle bathroom faucet:

Always turn off the water supply before working on plumbing fixtures.
Use a basin wrench to access the mounting nuts from below the sink.
Wrap plumber's tape around the threads of the supply lines before connecting them to the faucet.
If you're replacing a faucet with a new one with different supply line connections, purchase new supply lines that are compatible with both the new and old faucets.
Apply silicone sealant to the base of the faucet to prevent leaks.
If you're not comfortable performing this task yourself, consult a licensed plumber.