Those who are having a hard time figuring out how to fix their Moen shower valve cartridge should rejoice. This is because Moen has a simple type of cartridge system which has been utilized for many single-handled valve bodies. Such will include bathroom sinks, kitchen sinks, showers, and tubs. More importantly, these bunch offers a huge variety of products that use only about three cartridges having the same form factor.
Basically, the Moen system is very efficient because the valves can be moved easily against pressure, while keeping their position. So if you need to replace a shower valve cartridge, it will only take about fifteen minutes of your time as it is very simple and straightforward. Here are a few tips to begin with.
1. Turn Water Supply Off
Aside from keeping the work area clean and mess-free by turning off the water supply, make sure that you use googles to protect your eyes.
2. Remove Faucet Handle
The faucet handle must be removed using a pry bar or some flat screwdriver. Try to turn the screw of the faucet handle using a flat blade.
3. Spacer Sleeve and Retaining Clip
In some cases, there is a need to slide out the spacer sleeve, common in tube and shower valves, that hides the old caulk. After which, you need to pull out the retaining clip and save it. This is very important because if you won’t, you might accidentally destroy your valve.
4. Extractor Tool
If possible, try to use the extractor tool made by Moen. This is the white tool which comes together with the cartridge that you purchased. It will be utilized when twisting the cartridge loose. This tool will be used if you don’t have a pair of pliers to pull out the stem from the valve cartridge.
5. Clean Mineral Deposits or Lime
Try to use vinegar when cleaning the valve body if lime or mineral deposits are visible. This is proven to work nicely. To do this, you need to wet the valve body replacement. Just make sure you don’t wash out the lubricant from it.
6. The Valve Cartridge
Reinstall a new cartridge by sliding it into the valve body until the retaining clip shot is cleared. Take note that the ears of the cartridge must be lined up with the slots and not opposite to them.
7. Retaining Clip
Try to slide back the retaining clip in. Make sure that you seat it to enable flushing the outer valve body by just exposing the tab. At this point, you can utilize the extractor tool so that you can rotate and align both. Likewise, you need to install the clip or the water force will push out the cartridge from the valve.
8. Returning the Components
Re-install the spacer sleeve by sliding it back if necessary. At the same time, you need to slide in the faucet handle back.
Don’t forget to turn the water supply back on and make sure that the hot or cold selection is in the right direction. You also need to screw the faucet back in and press back in the handle cover. That should solve the problem regarding a defective shower valve cartridge.