Regardless of the cause, learning how to clear the Moen bathroom faucet grip would be best. Luckily, this article will walk you through the step-by-step process of effectively removing this handle.
Moen bathroom fixtures are noted for their longevity and dependability.
Moen Bathroom Faucet Handle Removal
Various components of the fixture can exhibit defects over time. The grip is one of the parts that can get bad. Some resulting factors could be significant mineral buildups or leaks.
Sometimes, the handle may be in perfect condition. But you’ll likely need to pull it out to replace the cartridge or swap the filter.
Items Needed for Removal
You’ll need specific equipment to remove such a handle efficiently. Getting the right tools beforehand will save you time, and you won’t have to look for a tool in the center of the job.
You’ll need a valve puller, rag, flat screwdriver, wrench, and socket rocket (optional). You may also require a water and vinegar mixture, tongue-and-groove pliers, and more.
Taking out a Moen Bathroom Faucet Handle
These top-rated handles come in different shapes, styles, and finishes. Whichever brand of system you have, removing the handle is a straightforward activity.
However, it will require the utmost care and precision; otherwise, you may ruin other functioning parts. Below is the step-by-step process for removing this handle.
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Shut Off the Water Supply
Before starting the extraction process, you must shut off the water supply. When you’re done, cover and close the drain with the rug. Doing so will prevent tiny screws from getting lost.
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Locate the Handle
The next step is to identify the valve’s handle connections. It would be best to locate where it’s attached to the base deck plate.
That way, you’ll know whether the handle has a screw. Usually, the presence of screws will determine the procedure for taking off the hold.
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Remove the Handle
Some Moen handles come with screws attached, while others don’t. The process of taking off handles with screws differs from those without screws. Let’s see how you can go about removing these two handles.
Moen Bathroom Faucet Handle With Screws
First, to unfasten a handle with screws, grab the bottom of the fixture with a wrench. Using a twist is because the handle won’t turn properly.
The handle might stick hard due to mineral and other material buildup over the years. Only with a wrench will you be able to unscrew the handle.
Next, twist the valve counterclockwise and remove the handle trim. Still, turn the stopper counterclockwise to unscrew it.
Once you’re done, insert a hex key (usually 5.5mm) to the right at the opening of the red pin. Turn the key anticlockwise to unscrew the set screw and remove the sprout.
After removing the sprout, please move to the next set screw and unscrew it using the hex key. However, you’ll need to be careful while loosening these sets of screws.
Upon removal, the valve cartridge will be loose and unstable. Adder that, you look at the handle and locate the c-clip. When you see it, slowly take it out and use a flat-headed wrench to pull it out.
Moen Bathroom Fixture Handle without Screws
Usually, handles with no screws have fixed caps. You’ll first need to find the lid and take it out. You can do this using a flat-headed wrench.
However, you must be careful, as these caps are very delicate. After popping off the lid, you must pull out the screws underneath. Use the same flat-headed wrench.
Once these screws are out, proceed with the handle extraction. Generally, such controls with new screws can be taken out manually.
In this event, you’ll pull out the handle using your bare hands. But if it doesn’t pull out, consider using pliers or a handler puller. But if the valve handle doesn’t come with screws, you can remove it manually.
Maintaining a Moen’s Bathroom Faucet Handle
Removing a Moen handle isn’t the end of the journey. Specific maintenance steps need to be taken after the removal.
These include cleaning and removing mineral buildup, inspecting the cartridge, and cleaning or replacing the O-rings. Let’s take a look at these maintenance steps.
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Removing Mineral Buildup
Bathroom faucet handles usually accommodate the buildup of different unpleasant substances.
This buildup can significantly prevent the handle from functioning correctly. Therefore, cleaning them out is essential before replacing the faucet handle in its place.
You’ll need white vinegar mixed with water to clean up such a mineral buildup. Pour out the mixture on the part of the handle linked to the deck.
Use a soft cloth and wipe the surface. Ensure all dirt, grime, and debris are eliminated before installing the handle.
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Inspecting the Cartridge
After pulling the handle, you’ll need to remove the cartridge.
It’s cylindrical and usually located in the inner casing of the handle. If your fixture handle is always sticky, it may result from mineral buildup.
This often occurs when water constantly touches the cartridge. It will cause minerals and other substances to build up. Over time, it will make the handle sticky and hard to operate.
In this event, you’ll look forward to cleaning it or, better yet, changing it.
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Check O-rings
O-rings are black rings on the handle. It may get worn out and temper the efficiency of the handle. In that case, you’re to replace the rings with new ones.
The tiny parts are relatively affordable on the market. But if they’re covered with dirt and debris, you can use a mixture of vinegar and water to clean it up.
Replacing a Moen Bathroom Faucet Handle
Putting back your Moen bathroom fixture handle should be easy. The same procedures you followed to remove the handle will be followed to replace it.
While doing that, ensure all the removed parts are appropriately replaced. You can take a picture of every step if you forget how to put it back.
It’s an excellent idea to consider removing your Moen bathroom faucet handle if you notice a fault. This will allow you to address the issue without inviting and paying an expert.
Remove your handle; it’s straightforward and won’t take long. In at least 15–30 minutes, you should be done with the entire process. You can follow the guidelines above for successful removal.