Moen Bathtub Cartridge Replacement

Moen Bathtub Cartridge Replacement: A Comprehensive Guide

Maintaining a well-functioning bathtub is crucial for a comfortable bathing experience. One of the essential components of a bathtub is its cartridge, a device that controls the flow and temperature of the water. Over time, bathtub cartridges can become worn or damaged, leading to leaks, dripping, or difficulty in adjusting the water temperature.

Replacing a Moen bathtub cartridge is a straightforward task that can be completed with basic tools and a little bit of know-how. Here is a comprehensive guide to guide you through the process:

1. Gather Necessary Tools

Before you begin, gather the following tools:

- Adjustable wrench or pliers - Screwdriver (Phillips or flathead) - Cartridge puller (optional but recommended) - New Moen bathtub cartridge

2. Turn Off Water Supply

Locate the water supply valves under the bathtub or behind the access panel. Turn off both the hot and cold water valves to stop the flow of water.

3. Remove Cartridge Access Panel

The cartridge access panel is typically located on the front of the bathtub handle. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the panel in place and lift it off.

4. Remove Handle

Behind the access panel, you will find the bathtub handle. Grasp the handle firmly and pull it straight away from the bathtub to remove it.

5. Remove Cartridge

If your bathtub has a screw-on cartridge, use a wrench or pliers to loosen the retaining nut. If your bathtub has a push-fit cartridge, you will need to use a cartridge puller to extract it. Insert the puller into the cartridge and turn the handle counterclockwise to release the cartridge.

6. Install New Cartridge

Take the new Moen bathtub cartridge and align it with the cartridge opening. If your cartridge is screw-on, hand-tighten the retaining nut. If it is push-fit, insert the cartridge into the opening and push it in firmly until it clicks into place.

7. Reattach Handle

Align the bathtub handle over the cartridge and push it back onto the bathtub until it is fully seated.

8. Reinstall Cartridge Access Panel

Place the cartridge access panel back over the handle and secure it with the screws.

9. Turn On Water Supply

Go back to the water supply valves and turn them back on to restore the water flow to the bathtub.

10. Test Cartridge

Turn on the bathtub faucet and adjust the handle to check if the cartridge is functioning correctly. If there are no leaks, dripping, or difficulty in adjusting the water temperature, the cartridge replacement was successful.