Removing Moen Bathroom Faucet Handle: My Personal Experience

As a homeowner, I have faced many plumbing issues over the years. One of the most common problems I have encountered is a leaky bathroom faucet. Recently, I had to replace the cartridge in my Moen bathroom faucet, and I had to remove the handle to do so. In this article, I will share my experience and provide a step-by-step guide on how to remove a Moen bathroom faucet handle.

How To Remove Moen Bathroom Faucet Handle

Step 1: Turn Off Water Supply

Before you start any plumbing work, it’s important to turn off the water supply to avoid any accidents. Look for the shut-off valve under the sink and turn it clockwise to shut off the water.

Step 2: Remove Decorative Cap

Use a flathead screwdriver to remove the decorative cap on top of the handle. This cap covers the screw that holds the handle in place.

Step 3: Loosen Screw

Use a Phillips screwdriver to loosen the screw that holds the handle in place. Turn the screw counterclockwise until it’s loose enough to remove the handle.

Step 4: Remove Handle

Once the screw is loose, gently pull the handle off the faucet. It may require some wiggling to loosen it completely.

Step 5: Remove Cartridge

With the handle removed, you can now access the cartridge. Use pliers to remove the retaining clip and pull the cartridge out of the faucet.

Step 6: Replace Cartridge

Insert the new cartridge and replace the retaining clip. Turn the water supply back on and test the faucet to make sure it’s working properly.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas on How To Remove Moen Bathroom Faucet Handle

Make sure to turn off the water supply before starting any plumbing work.
Use the correct tools, such as a flathead and Phillips screwdriver, pliers, and a wrench.
Take note of the order of the parts as you remove them to make reassembly easier.
If the screw is stuck or stripped, use a screw extractor to remove it.
If the handle is difficult to remove, try using a handle puller tool.
Clean the inside of the faucet before installing the new cartridge.
Replace any worn or damaged parts while you have the faucet disassembled.
Consider upgrading to a newer, more efficient faucet while you’re at it.
Watch tutorial videos online for additional guidance.
If you’re unsure, call a professional plumber.

Pros and Cons of Removing Moen Bathroom Faucet Handle

Pros:

Allows you to replace a worn or faulty cartridge without replacing the entire faucet.
Can save you money on plumbing repairs.
Gives you a better understanding of how your plumbing system works.

Cons:

Requires some basic plumbing knowledge and tools.
Can be time-consuming and frustrating for beginners.
If not done correctly, can cause additional damage to your faucet.

My Personal Review and Suggestion on How To Remove Moen Bathroom Faucet Handle

Overall, removing a Moen bathroom faucet handle is a fairly straightforward process that can be done by most homeowners with some basic plumbing knowledge and tools. However, if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber. The key is to take your time, be patient, and follow the steps carefully. And if you’re unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to consult online tutorials or ask for help.

Question & Answer / FAQs

Q: Can I remove the handle without turning off the water supply?

A: No, it’s important to turn off the water supply to avoid any accidents or damage to your plumbing system.

Q: Do I need any special tools to remove the handle?

A: You’ll need a flathead and Phillips screwdriver, pliers, and a wrench. You may also need a screw extractor or handle puller tool if the screw or handle is stuck.

Q: How do I know if I need to replace the cartridge?

A: If your faucet is leaking or not working properly, it may be due to a faulty cartridge. You can remove the handle and inspect the cartridge for any visible signs of wear or damage.