Moen shower heads are known for their durability and quality construction, typically lasting many years. The longevity of a Moen shower head can depend on various factors, including water quality, usage frequency, and maintenance. Generally, a Moen shower head can last 5 to 10 years or even longer with proper care.
You may need to remove or replace it due to reasons such as buildup of mineral deposits from hard water, which can affect water flow and pressure, a desire to upgrade to a newer model with advanced features, or to address any damage or malfunction. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prolong the life of the shower head.
Guide to Remove a Moen Shower Head
Tools Required
- Adjustable Wrench
- Pliers
- Teflon Tape
- Rag or Towel
Detailed Instructions
Turn Off Water Supply
Before you start removing the Moen shower head, it is crucial to turn off the water supply to your bathroom. This is a safety measure to prevent water from spraying out uncontrollably when you detach the shower head. Typically, you can find the water supply valve in the bathroom or the basement. Turning off the water supply ensures a dry and safe environment to work in.
Protect the Shower Head’s Finish
Wrap a rag or towel around the Moen shower head. This step is important to prevent any scratches or damage to the finish of the Moen shower head when using tools. The rag or towel provides a protective layer between the tools’ metal and the shower head’s surface, maintaining its aesthetic appearance and preventing accidental slips.
Loosen the Shower Head
Using an adjustable wrench, carefully loosen the Moen shower head. Position the wrench on the nut at the base of the Moen shower head, which connects to the shower arm. Apply gradual pressure to turn the wrench counterclockwise. It’s essential to do this gently to avoid damaging the threads or the shower arm.
Remove the Shower Head
Once loosened, unscrew the Moen shower head by hand. Rotate it counterclockwise until it comes off the shower arm. This step should be done carefully to ensure no parts are lost and to avoid sudden movements that could damage the shower arm or nearby areas.
Clean the Threads
After removing the Moen shower head, inspect and clean the threads on the shower arm. Over time, there can be a buildup of mineral deposits, Teflon tape residue, or general grime. Cleaning the threads is essential for a good seal when installing a new shower head or reattaching the existing one. You can use a small brush or cloth, and for tougher deposits, soaking the area in vinegar can be effective.
How to Take Apart a Moen Shower Head?
- Gather the Necessary Tools: Before disassembling your Moen shower head, collect the required tools – an adjustable wrench, pliers, a screwdriver (Phillips or flathead, based on your Moen shower head model), and a cleaning brush.
- Prepare the Work Area: Clear the space around the Moen shower head and lay down a towel or mat. This precaution protects the shower head’s finish and prevents misplacing small parts during disassembly.
- Shut Off the Water Supply: Ensure the water supply to the Moen shower head is turned off. Locate the shut-off valve for your shower and turn it clockwise until it stops. This step is crucial to avoid water flow while disassembling the Moen shower head.
- Remove the Moen Shower Head: Hold the Moen shower head firmly and use an adjustable wrench to loosen its connection to the shower arm. Turn the wrench counterclockwise until the Moen shower head can be unscrewed by hand.
- Disassemble the Moen Shower Head Components: Inspect the Moen shower head for visible screws or caps. Remove these using a screwdriver and carefully separate the components such as the O-ring, trim cap, spray cap, water distributor, and brass ball swivel. Handle each part with care to avoid damage.
- Clean and Inspect the Components: Clean each part of the Moen shower head with warm water and a brush. Look for signs of wear or mineral deposits. For stubborn deposits, a vinegar solution can be effective.
- Reassemble the Moen Shower Head: Put the Moen shower head back together in reverse order of disassembly. Ensure all parts are correctly aligned and secured.
- Test the Moen Shower Head: Once reassembled, turn on the water supply and check the Moen shower head for any leaks. Make adjustments as necessary to ensure proper function.
How to Install Moen Shower Head?
Moen Handheld Shower Head (Twist Model)
- Remove the Existing Showerhead: Unscrew the old showerhead from the shower arm, using an adjustable wrench if necessary. Clean the shower arm threads afterward.
- Prepare the Area: Apply Teflon tape clockwise around the cleaned shower arm threads for a secure seal.
- Install the Mounting Bracket: Attach the mounting bracket to the shower arm and tighten it.
- Connect the Shower Hose: Attach the shower hose to the mounting bracket, ensuring a snug fit.
- Attach the Moen Handheld Shower Head: Connect the shower head to the hose and hand-tighten it.
- Test the Installation: Turn on the water, check for leaks, and adjust connections as needed.
Moen Hydro Energetix Shower Head
- Screw on the Diverter Spout: Start by installing the tub or diverter spout using Teflon tape for a tight seal.
- Drill Holes for the Mounting Bracket: Mark and drill holes for the shower bracket, using anchors for a secure fit.
- Attach the Bracket & Shower Line: Connect the bracket with screws, attach the flexible line to the spout, and then attach the shower head to the flex line.
Moen Magnetix Shower Head
- Remove the Existing Shower Head: Turn off the water supply and unscrew the old shower head.
- Prepare the Shower Arm: Clean the shower arm threads and wrap them with Teflon tape.
- Attach the Moen Magnetic Shower Head: Screw the magnetic shower head onto the shower arm and hand-tighten.
- Test for Leaks: Turn on the water supply and check for leaks, tightening the connections as needed.
- Adjust the Shower Head Position: Use the adjustable bracket to set the desired height and angle of the shower head.
How to Remove a Flow Restrictor on a Moen Shower Head?
Remove the Shower Head
Start by using an adjustable wrench to carefully remove the shower head from the wall mount or shower arm. Protect the shower head’s finish by wrapping it with a dry cloth during this process.
Disassemble the Internal Fitting
Look for the rubber O-ring gasket inside the shower head and gently remove it with your fingers. This may expose a screen or filter, which you should also remove. Be careful not to damage these parts as they are delicate.
Remove the Flow Restrictor
You will find the flow restrictor beneath the screen or filter. It’s typically a small plastic component with several small holes. Use a flat-head screwdriver or tweezers to carefully remove the restrictor without damaging it or the shower head.
Clean the Component
Before reassembling, clean the flow restrictor and other components to ensure they are debris-free. This helps to maintain optimal water flow.
Reassemble and Reinstall the Shower Head
After cleaning, reassemble the shower head by putting back the flow restrictor, screen, and O-ring. Wrap Teflon tape around the shower arm’s threads and then reattach the shower head to the arm. Secure it by hand and then tighten it with the wrench, ensuring not to over-tighten.
Test the Shower Head
After reassembly, turn on the water and check for any leaks. Adjust the connections if necessary.
Remember, removing the flow restrictor may increase water usage and could potentially void the warranty of your Moen shower head. Also, it’s important to be mindful of EPA’s shower heads & local water conservation laws and regulations before proceeding with this modification.
What do if my Moen Shower Head is Stuck?
If your Moen shower head is stuck, first try wrapping a cloth around it to protect the finish, then use an adjustable wrench to gently turn it counterclockwise. If it’s still stuck, apply a penetrating oil like WD-40 to the joint, wait a few minutes, and then try again. Be cautious to avoid excessive force, which could damage the plumbing.
