Repair a Drip in a Moen Kitchen Faucet
The constant drip of a leaking faucet is enough to drive anyone nuts; in addition, it's a waste of water and money. While some people put off repairing a leaking kitchen faucet because of the mess and inconvenience, Moen faucet owners cannot use this excuse. These faucets use a one-piece cartridge system in place of washers and springs to guard against leaks, making it easy for even a novice to repair them.
Instructions
Remove Cartridge
1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet. Locate the water valves underneath the sink, turn them off and allow the water to run until the line clears.
2. Use an Allen wrench to remove the faucet handle and expose the cartridge. If there is a U-shaped retaining clip holding the cartridge in place, remove it. You may need to pry the retaining clip off with needle nose pliers. If a retaining nut is holding the cartridge in place, loosen and remove it using a wrench.
3. Remove the cartridge. An older cartridge may take some effort to remove, so use a screwdriver to pry it out if it appears to be stuck. An alternative is to purchase a Moen cartridge puller, which fits over the top of the cartridge and provides greater leverage when pulling the cartridge out.
Clean or Replace Cartridge
4. Clean the cartridge in a 50% vinegar/50% water solution for approximately four hours. Reinstall it by sliding it into place, pushing down hard to ensure a tight fit. Replace the retaining clip or tighten the retaining nut and replace the faucet handle.
5. Purchase a new cartridge if your faucet still leaks; the model number can be found in your owner manual and underneath the faucet spout. Follow the installation process in Step 1 above.
6. Turn the water on and ensure the faucet is no longer dripping. If it is, the cartridge is not set in tight enough. Try again, or ask someone to assist you.
Tips Warnings
While you have the faucet handle removed, check the condition of the plastic O-ring at the base of the handle. Over time, the O-ring can wear out and cause water to leak from the bottom of the handle base.
A lifetime warranty covers replacement cartridges. Call the Moen service department at (800) 465-6130 or customer service at (800) 465-6636 to order a new cartridge.
Clear out the cabinet area under your sink while you work to prevent water damage.
If your faucet has two handles, you will need to perform this process on both.
Tags: repair, drip, moen, kitchen, faucet, faucet handle, retaining clip, cartridge place, Drip Moen, Drip Moen Kitchen, Drip Moen Kitchen Faucet, holding cartridge, holding cartridge place, Kitchen Faucet