Moen is among the most trusted manufacturers of shower faucets because of the elegant touch and outstanding functionality incorporated into its products. However, sometimes a Moen shower faucet won’t turn off, which can lead to frustration.
Your Moen shower faucet isn’t turning off because of a faulty cartridge, a defective valve, and a worn-out stem washer. Other potential causes are a loose faucet, a clogged faucet handle, and a striped or damaged shower handle. Some of the problems stem from multiple causes.
While this issue is unpleasant and causes water wastage, you can fix the situation. This post provides a detailed look into its causes and fixes
Moen Shower Faucet Won’t Turn Off (Causes & Fixes)
| Problem | Possible Causes | Recommended Fix | |
| 1. | Faulty Cartridge | Wear and tear | Replace the cartridge |
| 2. | Loose Faucet | Loose or broken faucet screw | Tighten the faucet screw |
| 3. | Worn-out Stem Washer | Deterioration from prolonged use | Replace the washer |
| 4. | Faulty Valve | Worn out valve | Replace the valve |
| 5. | Clogged Faucet Handle | Rust and debris Broken pieces | Clear the clog |
| 6. | Stripped Or Damaged Faucet Handle | Cracking | Replace the faucet handle |
1. Faulty Cartridge
You need the cartridge working at its optimum to control water flow and temperature and avoid water waste. Unfortunately, this device can wear down from prolonged usage and stop the Moen shower faucet handle from turning off.
The good news is you can employ the DIY guide below to get your shower back to normal.
Fix
- Get the tools you need for the task, i.e., a new cartridge, screwdriver, and vice grip.
- Stop the water supply to your shower, then safely put aside the small parts by sealing the drains.
- Turn on the faucet handle again to be sure you turned off the water supply. If no water flows from the shower, proceed to the next step.
- Block your shower drain by covering the drainage entrance with a cloth. Alternatively, insert a plug into the drainage hole.
- Use a screwdriver to remove the screws securing the faucet handle, then detach the shower handle from the shower system.
- Next, loosen the screws holding the cartridge, then slide out the old cartridge and the turning device.
- Remove and set aside the clip that secures the cartridge.
- Use a vice grip to hold and pull the cartridge out of its position. Professionals advise you to be cautious in this step, seeing as exerting excessive pressure can ruin your plumbing.
- Get your replacement cartridge and ensure it has a special lube that the manufacturers made for easier installation after putting it inside the cartridge. However, if you don’t fancy the lube, you can move on to install the cartridge without it, only that the process will be more strenuous.
- Next, install the cartridge in its designated place. As you do this, ensure the hot and cold sections align similarly to the previous ones.
- Replace the other pieces that you removed at the beginning and screw them.
- Restore the water supply and turn the shower back on to test the efficiency of the new cartridge. You can confirm that you’ve resolved the issue when the water stops seeping from the shower handle.
2. Loose Faucet
Moen shower faucet features screws that provide a watertight seal, thereby stopping water flow after shutting off the shower. When the screws loosen or break, the tap will loosen, and within no time, you’ll notice water running continuously because the shower handle is faulty.
On top of that, the Moen shower faucet could be stuck or malfunctioned, which explains why it is loose and keeps falling off. One or more of these issues hinders the much-needed compression of internal components responsible for regulating water flow.
If this goes unattended for a prolonged period, it will misalign the cartridge and create additional problems. Therefore, plumbers advise you to tighten the loose faucet immediately after detecting the problem.
Fix
- Stop the water supply, then open the cover plate of the faucet with a flathead screwdriver or a sharp tool.
- Use a screwdriver or a spanner to tighten your Moen shower handle screw.
- After that, replace the cover plate, then reconnect the water supply.
- Turn the faucet on and off to test it. If the water stops running after turning off the shower faucet, pat yourself on the back; you have solved the issue successfully. Otherwise, repeat the process, being keen this time round.
- Alternatively, get an expert to bail you out.
3. Worn-out Stem Washer
Moen shower faucet features a stem washer that works hand in hand with the handle to control water flow in your shower system. The washer embodies rubber construction, making it ideal for closing the water supply after turning off the shower handle.
Unfortunately, the rubber degrades after continuous usage, hence causing your Moen shower faucet not to turn off.
Fix
- Loosen the faucet and remove it using an Allen wrench.
- Remove the washer and the faucet stem.
- Check the condition of the stem washer to determine whether it needs replacing. If it is damaged, old, worn out, or deteriorated, replace it.
- Reinstall the shower components, then turn on the water supply.
- Turn the faucet on and off to test it.
4. Faulty Valve
The Moen shower faucet handle boasts a valve that works reciprocally with the cartridge to adjust the water flow and temperature. It happens when you turn the handle on and off.
Consequently, a Moen shower faucet handle that won’t turn off could point to a malfunctioned valve begging for replacement.
Fix
- Switch off the primary water supply to your restroom, then slide your shower’s stop tube over the cartridge.
- Reinstall the trim plate by caulking around the outer edge and pressing it against the bathroom wall.
- Next, attach the escutcheon screws and install the key-and-temperature stops.
- Screw in the handle adapter, then position the shower handle above it, securing it by tightening the hex or set screw.
- Thread tape the pipe end, seal the spout base, and secure it.
- Place the thread tape at the showerhead pipe’s end.
- Finally, install the showerhead by screwing it into place.
5. Clogged Faucet Handle
Debris and rust can block your Moen shower faucet, causing it to remain open. Sometimes, broken pieces can find their way to the device and result in a continuous flow of water from the shower, even after attempts to shut it off.
In this case, remove the rust, debris, and broken pieces to get your shower up and running as it should.
Fix
- Start by cutting off the water supply to the bathroom.
- Loosen the shower handle then detach it.
- Examine the faucet handle for rust, debris, or broken pieces, and remove them using an old toothbrush.
- Assemble the fixture carefully and screw it into position. Ensure you tighten the screws.
- Turn the shower on and off to confirm you’ve solved the problem.
6. Stripped Or Damaged Faucet Handle
A stripped or damaged handle can cause your Moen shower faucet to fail to turn off correctly. The problem could stem from cracks lodged within the handle that arise from extended usage or the exertion of excess pressure.
Consequently, the faucet handle may not grip the water flow-control device properly. It will make the shower run continuously since the loose connection between the shower handle and the water regulating device won’t provide a sufficient seal to stop water from running.
Fix
- Get your tools and remove the cracked, stripped, or damaged faucet handle.
- Alternatively, disassemble the entire faucet mechanism and swap it with a new one. It is the ideal solution if the damage is severe.
Additional Reasons Why Moen Shower Faucet Won’t Turn Off
After looking at the main reasons your Moen shower faucet won’t turn off, here are other factors to consider:
1. Debris And Mineral Buildup
Debris and mineral accumulation are common problems in plumbing fixtures, and the Moen shower faucet handle is no stranger. If you have used the shower for a long time, there’s a chance debris, and minerals are obstructing the system, hence causing the faucet handle not to turn off.
Moreover, the two elements make the shower valve stick, and you will have difficulties turning off the faucet. You can remove them using an old toothbrush.
2. Incorrect Installation
Installing the Moen shower faucet according to the manufacturer’s instructions is paramount to its optimal performance. If you leave gaps between the device and the wall, you will have trouble turning it off.
So, ensure you install the faucet correctly.
3. Loose Screws
You might have mounted the Moen shower faucet but forgotten to tighten the screws securing it. If that is the case, get a flathead screwdriver and tighten the screws.
Note
The time taken to replace the device relies on your expertise. However, if you have a history of fixing such problems, this should take 15 to 20 minutes.
Final Thoughts On Moen Shower Faucet Won’t Turn Off
A Moen shower faucet failing to turn off stems from a faulty cartridge, a loose tap, a worn-out stem washer, a faulty valve, a clogged faucet handle, and a stripped or damaged shower handle. Fixing the problem demands identifying the root cause and employing the solutions discussed in the post to salvage your shower.
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