Removing a Moen faucet generally involves disconnecting the water supply, detaching the mounting hardware from underneath the sink, and carefully lifting the faucet out. Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Steps to Remove Your Moen Faucet:
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Shut Off the Water Supply: Locate the shut-off valves under the sink for both hot and cold water. Turn them clockwise to completely stop the water flow to the faucet. You may also need to shut off the main water supply to your home if your faucet doesn't have shut-off valves. Test that the water is off by turning on the faucet and confirming no water comes out.
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Disconnect the Water Supply Lines: Place a bucket or towel under the sink to catch any residual water. Use a wrench to carefully disconnect the supply lines (flexible tubes or copper pipes) from the faucet tailpieces. Be prepared for a small amount of water to spill.
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Identify and Loosen the Mounting Hardware: Look under the sink at the base of the faucet. You'll typically find mounting nuts, screws, or a retaining bracket securing the faucet to the sink. Moen faucets often use a mounting system that requires a basin wrench or a specialized Moen wrench. Determine the type of hardware you have and use the appropriate tool. Loosen the hardware. It may be corroded and difficult to remove. Penetrating oil can help.
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Detach the Sprayer Hose (if applicable): If your faucet has a sprayer hose, detach it from the faucet body. There's usually a clip or a quick-connect fitting securing it.
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Lift Out the Faucet: Once the mounting hardware is completely detached, carefully lift the faucet up and out of the sink. You may need to gently rock the faucet back and forth to break any seal or corrosion between the faucet base and the sink.
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Clean the Sink Area: After removing the faucet, clean the sink surface around the faucet hole to remove any old plumber's putty, caulk, or debris.
Tools You Might Need:
- Adjustable wrench
- Basin wrench (essential for many Moen faucet installations)
- Screwdriver (Phillips and/or flathead)
- Penetrating oil (for corroded parts)
- Bucket and towels
- Plumber's putty or silicone caulk (for installing the new faucet)
Troubleshooting Tips:
- Corrosion: If the nuts are heavily corroded, spray them with penetrating oil and let it sit for a few minutes before attempting to loosen them.
- Tight Spaces: A basin wrench is specifically designed for reaching and loosening nuts in tight spaces under the sink.
- Stuck Faucet: Gently rock the faucet from side to side to break it free from any sealant that may be holding it in place. Avoid excessive force, as you could damage the sink.
