How to Replace a Moen 1225 Cartridge – Fix a Hard-to-Turn Faucet, by EvolutionDIY on YouTube. 8 min 18 s.
- Video length
- 8 min 18 s
- Time to do it
- 45 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 10
What you need
Steps
Shut off the hot and cold water supply valves under the sink. Open the faucet handle to drain pressure and let the remaining water run out.
Put the drain plug in or lay a towel in the basin so small parts cannot fall down the drain.
Pry off the decorative cap on the handle and remove the screw underneath. Lift the handle straight off the stem.
Unscrew the decorative collar or escutcheon by hand or with a cloth for grip. Set it aside.
Pull out the metal retaining clip that holds the cartridge in place. Note which way it faces so you can refit it.
Thread the cartridge puller onto the stem and turn it to draw the old cartridge out. Keep the puller straight as it comes free.
Wipe out the valve body with a cloth. Check the inside for grit, scale or old grease and remove it.
Coat the new cartridge O-rings with silicone plumber's grease. Slide it in with the tab or hole lined up to match the old one.
Refit the retaining clip, then the collar, then the handle and its screw. Push the cap back on.
Turn the water back on slowly and run the faucet. Check for leaks around the base and test that the handle turns smoothly.
Tips and common mistakes
Line up the cartridge tab with the notch in the valve body or the handle will not turn correctly.
Do not force the puller if it binds; back it off and check it is threaded straight.
Grease only the rubber parts, not the inside of the valve body.
If the water still drips after the swap, the valve seat may need cleaning or replacing.
Questions
Do I really need a cartridge puller?
Often yes. Old cartridges seize in place and pliers can damage the valve body. A puller is cheap and makes the job much easier.
How do I know my faucet uses a 1225 cartridge?
Single-handle Moen bathroom faucets from the 70s and 80s usually take the 1225. Pull the old one out and compare it to the new part before buying.
What if the handle is still stiff after replacing it?
Check the cartridge is seated and lined up correctly. If it still sticks, the valve body may have scale or damage that needs attention.
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.
