Beyond Bending Tell You How
If you’re looking to fix a leaky Moen kitchen faucet, you may need to take it apart to get to the root of the problem. Taking apart a faucet may seem daunting, but with some basic tools and a little know-how, you can do it yourself. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of taking apart a Moen kitchen faucet step-by-step.
Gather Your Tools
Before diving in, gather the necessary tools. You’ll need a pair of pliers, an adjustable wrench, a Phillips-head screwdriver, and a flat-head screwdriver. Additionally, it’s a good idea to have a clean, flat surface to work on and a towel or rag to catch any water that may spill out.
Turn Off the Water Supply
Before taking apart your Moen kitchen faucet, turn off the water supply to the sink. Look under the sink for the hot and cold water valves and turn them clockwise until they’re fully closed. If you can’t find the valves or they’re stuck, turn off the main water supply to your home.
Remove the Handle
The first step in taking apart a Moen kitchen faucet is to remove the handle. Use the flat-head screwdriver to pry off any decorative caps on the handle. Then, use the Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the screw that’s holding the handle in place. Once the screw is removed, lift the handle straight up to remove it from the faucet.
Remove the Escutcheon Plate
With the handle removed, you’ll see an escutcheon plate that covers the base of the faucet. Use the flat-head screwdriver to pry off the plate. If it doesn’t come off easily, use the pliers to gently twist it off. Be careful not to scratch the surface of the sink or faucet.
Unscrew the Retainer Nut
Underneath the escutcheon plate, you’ll see a retainer nut holding the cartridge in place. Use the adjustable wrench to unscrew the retainer nut by turning it counterclockwise. Once the nut is loose, use your fingers to remove it and set it aside.
Remove the Cartridge
With the retainer nut removed, you can now remove the cartridge. Simply lift it straight up and out of the faucet body. If it’s stuck, use the pliers to gently twist it back and forth until it comes loose.
Inspect and Replace Parts
Now that you’ve taken apart your Moen kitchen faucet, you can inspect the parts for damage or wear. If you notice any issues, such as a cracked cartridge or worn-out o-rings, replace them with new parts. You can find replacement parts at most hardware stores or online.
Reassemble the Faucet
Once you’ve replaced any damaged parts, it’s time to reassemble your Moen kitchen faucet. Simply follow the steps in reverse order, starting with inserting the cartridge and retainer nut, then replacing the escutcheon plate, handle, and screw.
With these steps, you can easily take apart and fix a leaky Moen kitchen faucet yourself. If you’re still having issues or need additional help, consult the manufacturer’s instructions or contact a professional plumber.
