How to Replace a Moen 1222 Cartridge — Posi-Temp Shower Fix (Step-by-Step), by Kitchen Faucet on YouTube. 2 min 9 s.
- Video length
- 2 min 9 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Shut off the hot and cold water supply to the shower valve. Open the handle to drain the pressure and confirm the water has stopped.
Pop off the index cap on the handle, remove the Phillips screw underneath, and pull the handle straight off the stem.
Take off the trim plate, then use needle nose pliers to remove the stop tube and the metal retaining clip holding the cartridge.
Grip the cartridge stem with adjustable pliers and pull it out. If it will not budge, thread the Moen cartridge removal tool onto the stem and twist it free.
Wipe the inside of the valve body clean and check that no old O-ring pieces are left behind.
Grease the O-rings on both sides of the new cartridge with a thin coat of plumber's grease.
Slide the new cartridge in with the H/C symbol and the stem notch facing up. Push it in until it seats fully.
Refit the retaining clip, stop tube, trim plate and handle in that order, and tighten the handle screw.
Turn the water back on slowly and run the shower. Check for leaks around the trim and test that hot and cold both work.
Tips and common mistakes
The H/C symbol and stem notch must point up, or the handle will work backwards.
Never force a stuck cartridge with pliers alone, since the removal tool saves the valve body from damage.
Grease the O-rings before inserting the cartridge so it slides in without tearing.
Turn the water on slowly after the swap and watch the trim for the first few minutes.
Questions
How do I know the 1222 cartridge is worn out?
The handle gets stiff, the water temperature drifts, or you get little or no hot water. These are the usual signs of a worn Posi-Temp cartridge.
What if the old cartridge breaks off inside the valve?
Use the Moen cartridge removal tool to pull the remaining plastic out. If the brass body looks scored or cracked, stop and call a plumber.
Do I need to drain the whole house?
No. Closing the local shutoff valves for the shower and opening the handle to release pressure is enough.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
