Moen faucets use a cartridge inside them, rather than the traditional valve stem used in other faucets. These cartridges also serve to filter the water before it comes out of the spout. After a period of use, the cartridges can become clogged with grit and other impurities in the water. Removing the cartridge from a single handle pullout faucet is easy for the DIYer because Moen makes a special cartridge removal tool to help with the job.
Instructions
1. Look for the two water supply valves underneath the cabinet where the Moen faucet is installed. They are connected by supply hoses to the sink above. Turn the handles on the end of the knobs to the right to cut the water supply.
2. Remove the metal or plastic faucet cap from the Moen faucet. This cap is not present on all models. Metal caps may be twisted off clockwise, while you must pry the plastic cap off to reveal the handle screw. Unscrew this screw with a screwdriver. Pull the handle cap off the top of the faucet.
3. Remove any plastic pieces that may be present on top of the faucet and set them aside. Remove the handle from the faucet.
4. Insert the Moen faucet cartridge tool into the top of the cartridge. Use the tool to twist the cartridge back and forth. Slowly pull up on the cartridge with the tool until it slides out of the faucet.
Tips Warnings
Use a pair of needlenose pliers if you don't have a cartridge removal tool.
Tags: remove, filter, moen, pullout, faucet, Moen faucet, cartridge removal, cartridge removal tool, cartridge tool, removal tool, water supply
