You use that bathroom faucet numerous times a day, and it is quite obvious that the handles may get loose after some time. Furthermore, there are several other reasons why the handle loses grip, and using the faucet becomes challenging.
How to tighten a Moen bathroom faucet handle? To tighten the bathroom faucet handle, you need to tighten the screws that hold it with the main faucet body. First, use an Allen wrench to hold the faucet’s base, and then use a flathead screwdriver to fix the screws.
However, there may be some other issues why the handle has got loose and that I’ve discussed in this article. Read on to know how to tighten the bathroom faucet handle quickly and make it work as a new unit.
Types of Moen Bathroom Faucets
Moen offers a wide range of amazing bathroom faucets available in different sizes, shapes, and designs. The reason why I’ve listed the types here is that tightening the handle can vary depending on the faucet type you have.
Here are the common Moen bathroom faucet types that homeowners prefer:
1. Double-handle Faucets
The double-handle faucets, including the centerset ones, have a two-handle design, and the entire faucet has a single body unit. Tightening the handle for these faucets is easy, and all you need is a wrench and a flathead screwdriver.
One of the best selling double handle bathroom faucets from Moen is Moen 6410 Eva.
2. Single-handle Faucet
The single-handle faucets are the easiest to fix. These faucets can have a handle on the side or above the spout. There are some Moen bathroom faucets with a spring-loaded handle, and tightening it can be a little challenging.
One of the best selling single handle bathroom faucets from Moen is Moen Sarona Mediterranean.
3. Faucets with Hidden Screws
Faucets with hidden screws are available in both single and double handle options. However, the screws aren’t visible on the top, so you need to remove the main plate first.
Reasons why the Moen Bathroom Faucet Handle Gets Loose
Before I go ahead and explain the possible fixes, it is important to understand the reasons why the handles get loose. The most common reason is age, as you use the faucet multiple times every day, the handle loses its grip on the main body.
Below I’ve listed some other common reasons you need to know about.
1. Stripped Screws
This is a very rare issue but may happen if you rotate the handles with immense force. The faucet’s handle gets wiggly due to the stripped screws, and the handle may also come off sometimes.
Fixing this issue requires a slightly different approach than just tightening a loose handle. You need to replace the screws since the handle will not fit properly on the stripped screw head.
2. Loose Screws
The screws get loose over time, and this is a common issue most homeowners face. Every Moen faucet, be it a single handle or double handle, has inner rings that keep the handle secure. And screws are used to keep these rings packed in place.
If the screw gets loose due to regular use of the faucet, it leaves the ring, and as a result, the handle also gets loose. You’ll see that the handle starts wiggling while rotating, but it won’t come off easily.
3. Corroded Valve Seats
The valve seats aren’t directly connected to the handle, but they accommodate on the washers, which, when worn out, results in leaks. These leaks can lead to damaging the cartridge, which then causes the handle to get loose.
4. Damaged Cartridge
Every cartridge used in Moen bathroom faucets comprises three parts, i.e., the stem, ceramic discs, and bonnet nut. The stem holds the handle with the faucet’s body. If the cartridge wears out over time, it will result in the handle getting loose.
Steps to Tighten a Moen Bathroom Faucet Handle
Tightening a Moen bathroom faucet handle is a simple task, and you can do it within minutes. Below I have mentioned the complete process in detail, with the things you need to fix the loose handle.
Step 1: Gather All Necessary Tools and Items
- Philips or Hex Screwdriver
- Allen Wrench
- Grease or WD40
- Cartridges
- Flathead Screwdriver
- Soft Clothes
Step 2: Turn Off the Water Supply
If you don’t want to end up getting completely wet with water splashes, it would be great to turn off the water supply. Also, rotate the faucet handle gently to flush the leftover water inside the supply lines.
Make sure to plug the sink hole before fixing the handle, as small screws may fall off inside the drain, and it can be a big problem.
Step 3: Remove the Handle
To fix the loose handle, you need to remove it, and the process may vary depending on the type of Moen bathroom faucet you have. For single-handle faucets, you will find the screw in the middle.
There is a plastic cap that secures the screws, remove it using a flathead screwdriver, and then you can access the screws. Moen single-handle faucets usually have hex screws.
On the other hand, for double-handle or widespread faucets, you don’t need to worry about removing any plastic cap. These faucets have two handles, and the screws are under each handle. Turn the handle clockwise, and you can remove it easily.
Step 4: Tighten the Screws
Put the screwdriver on the screws, and check if they are loose. You might need a flashlight since the screws are small and may not be visible without enough illumination.
Tighten the screws using the screwdriver, and then check if it has fixed the loose handle. If the screws don’t move, apply WD40 or some other grease to make the screw rotate properly. To tighten a Moen double-handle bathroom faucet, you need to install the handles back to check if the issue has been resolved.
If the handles still move or wiggle a lot, there is something wrong with the cartridge. Move to step 4, and know how to fix a worn-out cartridge.
Step 5: Clean the Cartridge or Replace It
Sometimes the issue can be fixed by cleaning the Moen bathroom faucet cartridge. You will find the cartridge after removing the handle. Unscrew the screws, and you can easily remove the cartridge. Inspect it, and look for any signs of damage.
If everything looks fine, sediments may have caused the issue. Rinse the cartridge and install it back. Or you can replace the cartridge if there are any signs of damage on the O-rings or other parts of the faucet, such as the stem or the ceramic discs.
Put the cartridge in place, and use screws to secure it properly. Tighten the screws using a hex screwdriver, and you are good to go.
Step 6: Reinstall the Handle and Clean Up
Now you can install the handle back. For widespread or double-handle faucets, put the handle over the cartridge, and rotate it anticlockwise. Make sure to align the handle properly so that it sets into the threads and locks in place.
Lastly, clean the entire faucet using a soft cloth, and you can start using it again.
Here’s a video on tightening loose Moen faucet handle and base:
How to Prevent the Moen Faucet Handle from Getting Loose Again
Now that you have tightened the loose Moen bathroom faucet handle, it would be great to ensure it doesn’t get loose again. Below I have listed some quick tips I’ve been using to prevent my faucet handles from getting wiggly.
1. Use Gently
Always move the faucet handles gently so that the screws remain in place and don’t get stripped quickly. Ask your kids and parents to use the faucet gently to prolong its lifespan while minimizing issues caused due to loosening handles.
2. Maintain the Faucet
Maintaining a faucet is a necessary part of keeping it properly functioning. Clean the Moen faucet regularly so that there is no sediment build-up inside or around the handles.
3. Use Branded Cartridge
If you are replacing the cartridge, you need to use one from Moen only. Moen manufactures highly-durable cartridges that last longer, thus, you won’t have any issues with the handle.
FAQs
Q: How to Tighten a Moen Bathroom Faucet Handle without Screws?
There are no Moen faucets without screws, as these faucets also have screws hidden under the plastic cover or the plate of the handle. It would be great to go through the instruction manual or read this article on how to remove a Moen bathroom faucet handle without screws.
Q: Does Tightening a Loose Moen Faucet Handle Damage the Threads?
Yes, overtightening the faucet handle can lead to damaging the threads, and the only solution you will be left with is replacing the handle. Always turn the handle gently so that the threads settle in place properly.
Q: How much does it Cost to Replace a Moen Bathroom Faucet Handle?
You only need to replace the handle if the threads are damaged, or if you are looking for an alternative to make the faucet look better. The cost of these handles can depend on the faucet model and availability.
Q: Can you Tighten the Moen Bathroom Faucet Handle without Tools?
Moen faucets are designed to offer ultimate convenience. A lot of these models let you remove the aerator without tools, but to tighten the handle, you need a few tools such as the wrench or flathead screwdriver.
Final Thoughts
That’s everything you should know about how to tighten a Moen bathroom faucet handle. Moen faucets are amazing and can easily last around 10-15 years, depending on how you use them.
Make sure to use the handle gently, and maintain the faucet after every few days to keep the handles clean. Lastly, if the bathroom faucet is under warranty, you should get in touch with customer service to get the faulty cartridge or handle replaced.
