Replacing a Moen shower cartridge is an essential plumbing task that can save you money and frustration. Whether you’re experiencing leaks, temperature fluctuations, or difficulty controlling water flow, understanding the process of cartridge replacement can help you resolve these issues efficiently. This step-by-step guide will empower you with the knowledge to tackle this plumbing challenge with confidence.
Before embarking on this task, ensure you gather the necessary tools, including a flathead screwdriver, a Phillips head screwdriver, a pair of pliers, and a new Moen shower cartridge compatible with your specific model. Additionally, it’s crucial to wear safety glasses and prepare a bucket or towel to catch excess water during the replacement process. With proper preparation and the following comprehensive instructions, you’ll be able to restore your shower’s functionality and enjoy a seamless showering experience once again.
To initiate the replacement, shut off the water supply to your shower by locating the main water shut-off valve and turning it clockwise. Next, remove the handle by unscrewing the small set screw located at its base using a flathead screwdriver. Using a Phillips head screwdriver, proceed to remove the faceplate, which will expose the cartridge assembly. Using pliers, gently loosen the retaining nut and pull the cartridge straight out from the valve body. When inserting the new cartridge, ensure that it is properly aligned and seated within the valve body. Tighten the retaining nut securely, reattach the faceplate, and replace the handle, making sure to tighten the set screw.
Identifying the Correct Cartridge Type
To replace a Moen shower cartridge, it’s crucial to correctly identify the cartridge type for your specific shower setup. Here are several methods to determine the right cartridge:
1. Visual Inspection:
Remove the cartridge retainer clip and carefully extract the old cartridge. Compare its physical dimensions (diameter, length, and notch orientation) with cartridges available at your local hardware store or from Moen’s website. Consult the table below for common Moen cartridge types and their distinctive features:
| Cartridge Type | Diameter | Length | Notch Orientation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1222 | 1-3/16" | 2-5/8" | 12 o’clock |
| 1225 | 1-3/16" | 2-15/16" | 3 o’clock |
| 1200 | 1-3/8" | 2-1/4" | 6 o’clock |
| 1205 | 1-3/8" | 2-1/2" | 9 o’clock |
2. Model Number:
If you have access to the original packaging or the shower valve body, check for the model number. You can then cross-reference the model number with Moen’s online database to determine the specific cartridge type required.
3. Contact Moen:
For more assistance, contact Moen’s customer support team via phone or online chat. Provide them with the model number or a detailed description of your shower setup, and they will help you identify the correct cartridge type.
Gathering Necessary Tools and Materials
Before embarking on the cartridge replacement process, it is crucial to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Here’s a comprehensive list to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience:
Tools
- Adjustable wrench or pliers
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver or putty knife
- Allen wrench (if required for your specific model)
Materials
- New Moen shower cartridge (compatible with your model)
- Teflon tape or plumber’s tape
- Paper towels or rags
- Bucket or container (optional, for draining excess water)
- Flashlight (optional, for better visibility in tight spaces)
Optional Tools for Specific Situations
- Socket wrench with appropriate socket size (if you encounter a tightly secured cartridge)
- Puller tool (if you have difficulty removing the cartridge by hand)
Estimated Time
The replacement process generally takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the accessibility and condition of your shower valve. However, it’s important to allow ample time and not rush the job to ensure proper installation and evitar leaks.
Shutting Off the Water Supply
Before beginning any work, it is crucial to turn off the water supply to avoid flooding and injury. Follow these steps to shut off the water:
1. Locate the Main Water Shut-Off Valve
Typically, this valve is located in the basement, crawlspace, or utility closet. It is often a large, round valve with a lever or handle.
2. Turn Off the Main Water Valve
Turn the valve clockwise (right) until it is completely closed. This will cut off the water supply to your entire home.
3. Check the Water Pressure
Determine if your shower has its own secondary shut-off valves. If not, proceed to Step 4. If there are secondary shut-off valves, follow the steps in the table below:
| Valve Location | Steps |
|---|---|
| Behind the shower fixture | Turn the valve clockwise (right) to close it. |
| Accessible from the crawlspace | Locate the pipe supplying water to the shower and turn the valve clockwise (right) to close it. |
| In a utility closet | Check for a specific valve labeled “Shower” or “Bathroom.” Turn the valve clockwise (right) to close it. |
4. Verify Water Shut-Off
Turn on the shower faucet to ensure the water is completely off. If water still flows, double-check the shut-off valves and retighten them if necessary.
Removing the Cartridge Cover
4. **Locate and remove the cartridge cover:**
The cartridge cover is typically located on the face of the shower valve, around the handle. It may be secured by a screw or a snap-on design.
**If secured by a screw:**
- Use a screwdriver to loosen and remove the screw.
- Gently remove the cover by pulling it straight out.
**If secured by a snap-on design:**
- Insert a thin, flat object (such as a small screwdriver or butter knife) into the notch or groove.
- Gently pry the cover up to release the snap-on mechanism.
- Remove the cover by pulling it straight out.
**Additional tips:**
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use caution when prying open the cover | Excessive force can damage the cover or surrounding components. |
| If the cover is stuck | Try using a penetrating oil or lubricant to soften the stuck joint. |
| Note the orientation of the cover | It is important to install the cover in the correct orientation during reassembly. |
Extracting the Old Cartridge
To remove the old cartridge, follow these steps:
- Turn off the water supply: Locate the shut-off valves behind the shower wall or under the sink and turn them clockwise to the closed position.
- Remove the handle: Most Moen shower handles are secured with a set screw. Use a hex key or Allen wrench to loosen the screw and pull the handle straight off.
- Remove the cartridge cap: Behind the handle, you’ll see a plastic cap covering the cartridge. Pry it off gently using a flathead screwdriver or a thin knife.
- Extract the old cartridge: Use a cartridge puller tool (supplied with the new cartridge) or a pair of needle-nose pliers to gently grip the cartridge and pull it straight out of the valve body.
- Inspect the cartridge and valve body: Before installing the new cartridge, inspect the old cartridge for signs of damage or wear. Also, check the valve body for any corrosion or debris that may impede the operation of the new cartridge.
Tip:
If the cartridge is stuck and difficult to remove, try applying a penetrating lubricant like WD-40 around the edge of the cartridge. Let it sit for a few minutes before attempting to pull it out.
 |
Installing the New Cartridge
1. Clean the Housing
Use a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris from the housing. This will ensure a proper seal between the cartridge and the housing.
2. Remove the Handle Screw
Locate the screw that holds the handle in place and remove it using a screwdriver.
3. Pull Off the Handle
Gently pull the handle straight off the valve.
4. Extract the Cartridge
Using a pair of pliers, grasp the cartridge and pull it straight out of the housing.
5. Install the New Cartridge
Insert the new cartridge into the housing, ensuring that it is properly aligned and seated.
6. Tighten the Cartridge Retaining Screw
Replace the cartridge retaining screw and tighten it using a screwdriver.
7. Detailed Guide to Tightening the Cartridge Retaining Screw
Step 1: Hand-Tighten the Screw
Start by hand-tightening the screw using your fingers. Apply moderate force and turn clockwise until the screw is snug.
Step 2: Use a Screwdriver for Final Tightening
Insert a screwdriver into the screw and continue turning clockwise to fully tighten it. Ensure that the screw is tight enough to secure the cartridge but not so tight as to damage it.
Step 3: Check for Proper Alignment
While turning the screw, periodically check the alignment of the cartridge. Make sure that the cartridge is seated correctly within the housing and not tilted or out of position.
Step 4: Avoid Overtightening
It is crucial to avoid overtightening the screw, as this could damage the cartridge or its seal. If you feel significant resistance when tightening the screw, stop and check the alignment of the cartridge.
Turning On the Water Supply
Once the new cartridge is installed, it’s time to turn on the water supply to check for leaks. Before turning on the water, slowly open the shower handle to release any trapped air. This will prevent water from spraying out unexpectedly.
Testing for Leaks
After turning on the water, carefully inspect all the connections for leaks. Pay particular attention to the areas around the cartridge, the handle, and the spout.
If you notice any leaks, follow these steps:
| Leak Location | Possible Causes | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Around the cartridge | Loose cartridge or O-rings | Tighten the cartridge or replace the O-rings |
| Around the handle | Loose handle or worn-out washer | Tighten the handle or replace the washer |
| Around the spout | Loose spout or damaged O-rings | Tighten the spout or replace the O-rings |
If you are unable to stop the leak, it is recommended to contact a qualified plumber for assistance.
Once you are satisfied that there are no leaks, you can fully open the shower handle and enjoy your newly repaired shower.
1. Remove the Handle
Pull the set screw and remove the handle.
2. Remove the Trim Plate
Remove the trim plate by unscrewing it.
3. Remove the Packing Nut
Unscrew the packing nut with a wrench.
4. Remove the Cartridge
Pull out the cartridge.
5. Inspect the O-Rings
Inspect the O-rings on the cartridge for any damage.
6. Lubricate the O-Rings
Apply a thin layer of silicone grease to the O-rings.
7. Insert the New Cartridge
Push the new cartridge into place.
8. Replace the Packing Nut
Screw the packing nut back onto the shower body.
9. Replace the Trim Plate
Replace the trim plate.
10. Troubleshooting Potential Issues
If you experience any issues after replacing the cartridge, check the following:
- Valve not turning off completely: The O-rings may not be properly lubricated or the cartridge may be installed incorrectly.
- Water leaking from the handle: The packing nut may not be tightened enough or the O-rings may be damaged.
- Water leaking from the showerhead: The cartridge may be faulty or there may be a problem with the showerhead itself.
- No water flow: The cartridge may be installed incorrectly or the water supply may be turned off.
- Water only flows from one outlet: The diverter may be stuck or the cartridge may be faulty.
How to Replace a Moen Shower Cartridge
Replacing a Moen shower cartridge is a relatively simple task that can be completed in less than an hour. By following these steps, you can easily replace your old cartridge and get your shower working like new again.
Step 1: Gather your tools and materials.
You will need the following tools and materials to replace a Moen shower cartridge:
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- New Moen shower cartridge
- Masking tape
- Bucket
- Rags
Step 2: Shut off the water supply to the shower.
Locate the water shut-off valves for your shower and turn them off. These valves are usually located behind the shower head or under the sink.
Step 3: Remove the handle from the shower.
Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the handle in place. Then, pull the handle straight off of the shower.
Step 4: Remove the cap from the valve stem.
Use a flat head screwdriver to pry off the cap from the valve stem. Be careful not to damage the valve stem.
Step 5: Remove the stem packing nut.
Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the stem packing nut. Then, remove the nut by hand.
Step 6: Pull out the old cartridge.
Use your fingers to pull the old cartridge straight out of the shower valve. Be careful not to damage the shower valve.
Step 7: Install the new cartridge.
Insert the new cartridge into the shower valve. Make sure that the cartridge is properly seated in the valve.
Step 8: Tighten the stem packing nut.
Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the stem packing nut. Do not over tighten the nut.
Step 9: Replace the cap on the valve stem.
Use a flat head screwdriver to replace the cap on the valve stem.
Step 10: Reattach the handle to the shower.
Use a Phillips head screwdriver to reattach the handle to the shower.
Step 11: Turn on the water supply to the shower.
Locate the water shut-off valves for your shower and turn them on. Check for leaks around the shower handle and valve stem.
Step 12: Test the shower.
Turn on the shower and check for leaks. If there are no leaks, your shower is now working properly.
People Also Ask
How do I know if my Moen shower cartridge needs to be replaced?
There are a few signs that indicate that your Moen shower cartridge may need to be replaced. These signs include:
- The shower is leaking.
- The shower is not getting hot enough.
- The shower is not turning off completely.
- The handle is loose or difficult to turn.
How often should I replace my Moen shower cartridge?
Moen shower cartridges typically last for 5-10 years. However, the lifespan of a cartridge can vary depending on the frequency of use and the water quality in your area.
Can I replace a Moen shower cartridge myself?
Yes, replacing a Moen shower cartridge is a relatively simple task that can be completed in less than an hour. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily replace your old cartridge and get your shower working like new again.
