Broken Moen Kitchen Faucet? How to Easily Repair It Yourself

Is your Moen kitchen faucet leaking or dripping constantly? Does the handle feel loose or keep falling off? If so, it may be time to repair your old Moen faucet rather than replacing the entire fixture.

Moen is one of the most popular and trusted brands for kitchen faucets and plumbing fixtures. But over time, the constant wear and tear can take a toll on components like the faucet cartridge and handle adapter. Replacing these parts is a quick and easy solution that will have your faucet fixed in less than an hour, without the need for a costly plumber.

Determine the Exact Problem

Before you can fix the issue, you need to diagnose the problem. A leaky Moen kitchen faucet usually indicates an issue with the cartridge or handle adapter. Here are some signs to look for:

• Dripping or leaking water when the faucet is turned off
• The handle feels loose, wobbly, or keeps falling off
• You need to jiggle or wiggle the handle to get water flow
• Water flow is reduced or uneven

Turn on the faucet and determine where exactly the water is leaking from. Use a flashlight to inspect the connections and components under the sink. Locate the specific source of the drip or leak.

If the water drips from the spout when turned off, it likely indicates a worn out cartridge. If the leak occurs at the base of the handle, the issue is probably with the handle adapter. Identifying the exact problem area will ensure you get the appropriate replacement part.

Obtain Necessary Repair Parts from Moen

The good news is that Moen provides replacement cartridges and handle adapters for free as part of their lifetime warranty. This can save you a lot of money compared to buying a whole new faucet.

Contact Moen's customer support online or by phone and provide details about your specific faucet model along with photos showing the issue. In most cases, Moen will ship you the necessary cartridge or handle adapter free of charge.

For older Moen kitchen faucets manufactured prior to 2009, you'll likely need the Moen Kitchen Faucet Handle Adapter Repair Kit. It contains the plastic adapter piece that connects the handle to the cartridge valve. Make sure to have your faucet model number handy when contacting Moen to ensure you get the correct parts.

Gather the Necessary Tools

Repairing a Moen kitchen faucet requires just a few basic tools you likely already have on hand:

• Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
• Adjustable wrench
• Bucket and rags or towels
• Moen-provided Allen wrench
• Pipe tape or plumber's putty

You'll use the screwdrivers and wrench to remove components and access the cartridge and handle adapter. The bucket and rags are for catching any water in the lines. The Allen wrench loosens the handle set screw. Putty or tape helps create a watertight seal.

Shut Off the Water Supply Lines

Before doing any work on your Moen kitchen faucet, it's crucial to shut off the supply lines. This prevents water from spraying out while you have the faucet disassembled.

Locate the hot and cold water shut-off valves, typically under the sink. Turn them clockwise until tight to prevent any water from flowing through. Then turn on the faucet momentarily to release any built-up pressure.

Be sure to place a bucket beneath the faucet to catch any remaining water in the supply lines. Have some rags or towels handy as well to soak up drips and spills during the repair process.

Remove the Faulty Cartridge

With the water off, you can now remove the old cartridge. Start by taking the handle off using the steps below:

1. Pry off the decorative cap at the rear base of the handle lever using a small flathead screwdriver.
2. Use the Moen-provided Allen wrench to loosen the set screw and pull the handle off.

With the handle removed, you'll see the round retainer nut holding the cartridge in place. Use an adjustable wrench to turn it counterclockwise and remove it.

Finally, grasp the cartridge and pull it straight out. Inspect it for any cracks, mineral buildup, or deterioration that would cause leaks. A visibly damaged cartridge definitely needs replacing.

Replace the Old Cartridge

Moen will have supplied you with the correct replacement cartridge for your faucet model. Check that the new cartridge matches the old one.

Before inserting the new cartridge, apply a thin layer of plumber's putty or pipe tape around the base. This helps create a tight seal. Then align the tabs on the cartridge properly and gently insert it into the faucet body.

Hand tighten the retaining nut back on by turning it clockwise. Finally, re-attach the handle with the set screw and decorative cap. Turn the water supply back on and test for any leaks around the cartridge.

Signs You Need a Cartridge Replacement:

• Dripping water after shutting off the faucet
• Uneven or reduced water flow
• Having to wiggle the handle to get water
• Visible cracks or damage on old cartridge

Swap Out a Worn Handle Adapter

If the issue stems from a loose or leaking handle rather than the spout, then your Moen faucet needs a new handle adapter. Adapters are found on older models before Moen switched to cartridges with direct-connect handles.

Start by using a Phillips screwdriver to remove the handle. This will expose the faulty plastic adapter piece. Unscrew or pop it off with adjustable pliers or a flathead screwdriver. Clean any buildup from the faucet body or handle lever.

The new adapter will come with an instruction sheet for proper installation. Generally, you'll need to line up the tabs and push it into place, then re-attach the handle. Tighten the handle set screw and test for a snug, leak-free fit.

Signs You Need a Handle Adapter Replacement:

• Loose, wobbly handle
• Handle keeps falling off
• Leaking water at base of handle
• Corrosion or cracks on old adapter

Restore the Water Supply and Confirm Repair

Once the new cartridge or handle adapter is successfully installed, carefully turn the hot and cold shut-off valves counterclockwise to restore water flow. Turn on the faucet and check for any drips or leaks around the new components.

Let the water run for a few minutes to flush out any sediment or minerals from the lines. Your Moen kitchen faucet repair is complete! No more annoying drips or loose handles.

Tips for Preventing Future Leaks and Damage

To get the longest lifespan out of your Moen kitchen faucet, keep these maintenance tips in mind:

• Don't overtighten handles or connections
• Use a faucet aerators to remove mineral buildup
• Avoid harsh cleaners or chemicals on finishes
• Wipe down fixtures after use to prevent mineral spots
• Lubricate O-rings and washers with non-petroleum grease

Periodically inspect your Moen faucet for any drips or loosening parts. Catching minor leaks early makes repair much quicker and easier.

While the cartridge and handle adapter repair is fairly straightforward, there are times you may want to call in a pro. If your Moen faucet has extensive corrosion, mineral deposits, or damage beyond regular wear and tear, a more involved repair may be needed.

A professional can also help if you have a tricky installation, old galvanized supply lines, or discover larger issues with water pressure or valves under the sink.

For the most common leaking and dripping issues caused by everyday use, this DIY cartridge and handle adapter replacement will likely solve your problems. With Moen's lifetime warranty and just a few tools and simple steps, you can fix an old, worn-out kitchen faucet and save the cost of a new one.