Remove Your Moen Kitchen Faucet in 5 Easy Steps

Is your Moen kitchen faucet leaking or dripping? Does it need repairs or full replacement? If so, don't despair - with a few basic tools and these straightforward steps, you can remove and replace your Moen faucet yourself in no time.

Removing a Moen kitchen faucet is an easy DIY project that will save you time and money. In just an hour or two, you can detach your old faucet and install a new one. This simple tutorial will walk you through the entire faucet removal process in just 5 easy steps.

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

Before removing your Moen kitchen faucet, you need to shut off the hot and cold water supply lines underneath your sink. Locate the water supply valves (they are typically under the sink or near the water meter) and turn them clockwise to the off position.

This stops the water flow to the faucet and prevents leakage while you work. It also allows you to safely detach the faucet without any water pressure.

Tip for Finding Supply Valves

Trace the flexible water supply lines that connect to the faucet stems. Follow them down to locate the shut-off valves for each line. Make sure to turn off both hot and cold water lines.

Step 2: Remove the Faucet Hardware

With the water turned off, now you can start dismantling the faucet. Start by removing the decorative dome caps on the faucet handle bases. Insert a flathead screwdriver under the dome edges and gently pry them off.

This exposes the handle screws. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to detach the screws and pull the handles away from the faucet body. Set them aside with the dome caps and screws.

Exposing Retaining Nuts and Cartridge

After removing the handles, turn a faucet wrench or pliers counterclockwise on the retaining nut or bonnet nut to loosen it completely. Unscrew and remove the nut to expose the cartridge.

Carefully pull the cartridge unit straight out. Place it with the other hardware you've removed. Repeat this cartridge removal on the hot and cold sides.

Step 3: Loosen the Mounting Nuts

With all the exterior hardware detached, the next step is loosening the faucet body from the sink. A basin wrench is perfect for this, as its curved end reaches up inside the faucet base.

Insert the basin wrench tip underneath the faucet and onto the mounting nuts. Turn them counterclockwise to loosen them completely. This detaches the faucet assembly from the sink.

Tip for Stuck Faucet Mounts

If the mounting nuts are stuck, spray them with penetrating oil and let it soak in. The oil helps loosen corroded or mineral-caked connections.

Step 4: Lift Up the Faucet

Now you're ready to lift the faucet up and off the sink. With the mounting nuts detached, carefully pull up on the faucet bonnet from underneath the sink. It will release from the sink deck mounting holes.

Remove any washers or other hardware still attached. Thoroughly clean the sink deck area to prep for the new faucet. Scrape off any old putty or grime with a plastic putty knife.

Avoid Damage to Sink Finish

Take care not to scratch, dent or damage the sink deck finish. Cover it with a towel if needed while cleaning.

Now you're ready for the new Moen faucet! First, read the manufacturer instructions and make sure you have the necessary tools and supplies.

Optional: If desired, switch out the old cartridges with new ones that came with the faucet. This ensures optimal performance.

Align the new faucet in place on the sink. Hand tighten the mounting nuts to hold it steady while you get them completely tightened.

Reconnect and turn on the flexible supply lines. Turn on the water and check for any leaks around the new faucet fittings.

That's all there is to it - you've successfully removed your old Moen kitchen faucet and installed a new one with just 5 easy DIY steps! Taking on basic plumbing projects like this can save homeowners significant time and money.