Repairing an Old Moen Kitchen Faucet

Is your Moen kitchen faucet showing signs of age? Over time, wear and tear can cause annoying leaks, low water pressure, and loose handles. Repairing an old Moen faucet can restore it to working order and avoid the need for a full replacement.

With some basic tools and replacement parts, most common Moen kitchen faucet repairs can be DIY projects. Read on to learn how to diagnose issues, disassemble, repair, and reassemble an outdated Moen kitchen faucet.

Assessing the Condition of an Aging Moen Faucet

Before attempting repairs, take time to thoroughly assess the faucet's condition. Check for things like:

• Visible corrosion or mineral deposits
• Pitting, peeling, or dull finishes
• Wobbling handles or spout
• Dripping water when shut off
• Low flow even when opened fully

Carefully operate the handles and spout through their full range of motion, feeling for sticking or grinding. Estimate the age of the faucet based on your length of residence or decades-old decor styles.

Note any manufacturer markings, model numbers, or distinctive design features to aid in identifying the specific faucet later on. This helps determine which replacement components will fit properly during repairs.

Deciding Between Repairing or Replacing an Old Moen Faucet

If the faucet shows extensive corrosion, damage, mineral buildup, or is over 10-15 years old, replacement may make the most sense. Compare the projected cost of new parts to the cost of a new faucet.

However, relatively minor issues like a single leak or loose handle can be cheaply repaired. Restoring a higher quality vintage Moen faucet can be worthwhile compared to modern budget options.

Factor in the hassle of disconnecting old supply lines or potential plumbing modifications needed for a new install. If the existing faucet suits your kitchen's decor and style, repairing it may be preferable.

Gathering Supplies for Repairing a Moen Kitchen Faucet

Assembling the necessary tools and parts makes the repair job smoother. Have on hand:

• Basin wrench to loosen nuts and supply lines
• Adjustable wrench or pliers for gripping fittings
• Screwdrivers to remove screws and pry off caps
• Replacement washers, O-rings, valves, etc.
• Petroleum jelly or silicone grease as lubricant
• Plug or stopper to seal drain while repairing

Check Moen's website or obtain an exploded parts diagram to identify components that may need replacement. Their installation instructions are also handy guides through the repair process.

Shutting Off Water Supply and Disassembling Faucet

Start by shutting off the hot and cold water supply valves below the sink. Turning faucet handles to the open position allows water to drain out and pressure to release.

Place a towel in the sink basin to prevent dropped parts and tools from causing damage. Carefully disassemble the faucet following Moen's model-specific procedure.

Most Moen kitchen faucets have a small removable cap or button on top of the handle that covers a screw. Pry off this cap with a small screwdriver. Loosen the screw and detach any nuts or clips holding the handle in place.

Lift off the dome cap covering the cartridge and valve body. Use a basin wrench to loosen and remove the spout. Unscrew any fittings to detach the valve bodies. Inspect each part as you dismantle the faucet.

Inspecting and Cleaning Internal Components

Lay out all disassembled components and closely examine them for issues. Look for:

• Cracked, torn, or compressed -rings or seals
• Worn or bent internal springs
• Corroded or scratched valve seats
• Mineral deposits and scale buildup

Scrub away any debris and soak removable parts in vinegar to dissolve hard water deposits. Rinse and dry them thoroughly. Replace any damaged or worn out pieces with new Moen replacement kit components.

Replacing Specific Moen Faucet Components

Some common replacements needed in old Moen kitchen faucets include:

• Cartridge - Lubricate or totally replace sticky or corroded cartridges.
• O-rings - Worn rubber O-rings should get replaced to prevent leaks.
• Springs - Weakened or broken springs affect handle function.
• Seats and washers - Pitted, cracked, or compressed seats and washers cause drips.

Moen cartridges come in many designs depending on the model. Identify and order the matching replacement when needed. Carefully inspect each internal part for defects and replace as needed.

Reassembling the Moen Kitchen Faucet

Once any necessary repairs and replacements are made, reassemble the faucet by reversing the disassembly sequence. Ensure parts are oriented correctly to avoid problems.

• Tighten fittings adequately but avoid over-tightening
• Lubricate -rings, gaskets, and moving parts with petroleum jelly
• Align valve bodies, spout, handles for smooth motion
• Attach any clips, caps, screws, and plug buttons

Double check that all components are installed properly. Misalignment can prevent the faucet from functioning optimally after reassembly.

Turning Water Back On and Testing Repairs

With reassembly complete, turn the hot and cold angle stop valves back on. Check under the sink for any leaks at supply line connections or valve bodies.

Turn on the faucet and let water run for a few minutes to flush out any sediment or debris shaken loose in the repair process. Verify adequate water flow volume and smooth handle operation.

Spray the faucet down with bathroom cleaner and wipe dry with a soft cloth. Test for several days to ensure the issues have been resolved and leaks do not reappear.

While many Moen kitchen faucet problems can be repaired, replacements are sometimes still required. Signs it may be time for a new faucet include:

• Faucet is over 15 years old with low functionality
• Parts are no longer available for obsolete models
• Damage is too severe for DIY repair skills
• Desire for updated style, finish, or features

Review different Moen models online to pick a suitable replacement with your preferred handle style, finish, spout height, and features.

Upgrading to a new faucet with modern conveniences can be worthwhile. But in many cases, reviving an old Moen kitchen faucet with some DIY loving care is an economical alternative.