A leaky faucet can be both irritating and costly, because aside from the annoying drip, drip, drip, it can wastes gallons of water every week. If your Moen faucet is giving you a problem, here are some tips to help you fix the problem quick.
Check To See Which Handle Has a Bad Seal.
If your Moen faucet has two handles, determine which one has a bad seal. Is it the left handle or the right handle? Begin by testing the left side first, or whichever you prefer.
Now, to test the left handle’s seal, turn the water off to the right handle. You should be able to find two shutoff valves under your sink. These valves connect the water lines to each faucet handle. Turn of the right handle’s shutoff valve, and then turn on the right handle at the sink to release the remaining water that’s in it. After which, check the faucet for any leaks. If there are leaks, this indicates that the left handle’s seal has a problem.
If there are no leaks, repeat the whole process. Turn off the left shutoff valve and turn on the left handle to release the remaining water. Check for any leaks. If there are leaks, the seal in the left handle could use a fix.
Dismantle The Problematic Handle And Fix The Seal.
Taking apart the faucet is no fun, especially if you’re not too savvy at it. For beginners, we suggest that you take pictures of the faucet during the dismantling process, so you’ll know how to put everything back together.
Follow these steps:
1. Unscrew the base of the faucet handle. You can do this with bare hands most of the time.
2. Removing the base will expose the brass nut holding the cartridge in place. Use a pair of channel locks to loosen the nut. Using the tool, turn the nut left until it loosens.
3. Once you have unscrewed the nuts, pull the cartridge straight up from the faucet. You can use the channel locks to this. Make sure you pay attention to the position of the cartridge stem, because you will have to put the replacement in the same position. So, take a picture if you must.
4. Take the cartridge to the hardware store or, better yet, call your Moen faucet supplier for replacement.
5. Once you have your Moen replacement cartridge on hand, simply install it into the faucet. Refer to the picture you’ve taken to get it in the right position. After which, refasten the brass nut that secures the cartridge.
6. Before reattaching the faucet handle, make sure the nut is tight enough to keep the water from leaking. A good way to check this is to turn on the shutoff valve to the faucet handle to see that the water doesn’t leak anymore.
7. When the replacement cartridge is in place and the nut tightened, you can now put on the faucet handle. Again, use your handle to refasten the handle. Using the channel locks on it may cause scratches or deform its shape.
Once done, turn on both shutoff valves. There should be no more water dripping from the faucet and no more wastage of precious natural resource after this.
