Moen Chateau Kitchen Valve Repeatedly Hard To Operate

[StevenHB]

The single-handle valve below is installed in an infrequently used sink installed as part of a wet bar in my home. I've replaced the cartridge several times (with replacements from HD and/or Lowes) with the same result: the valve operates well for a short period of time, but in what seems like just a few weeks, turning it off requires that I push the handle down and then wiggle it left and right while continuing to push down to get it to turn off. I know that the cartridges claim to be "lubricated" which makes me think that whatever the lube, it isn't lasting long.

What would you recommend that I do? Replace with some particular cartridge? Replace the faucet altogether?

 

[Terry]

It's the Moen 1225 cartridge, and if the replacement is becoming hard to use, then maybe it should be replaced.
Weird though, as I have a kitchen faucet with this cartridge.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Breplum]

It is a particularly bad design and classic mal-performer. Same holds true using that same cartridge on the push-pull lav. faucets.
That style of Moen is not to be recommended. Newer models with different cartridges and designs are fine.

 

[Jeff H Young]

Nothging fancy about those faucets my opinion is they work fine possibly can be regreased but I just replace and they work great like terry says 1225 moen . replace cartridge for years of service

 

[JohnCT]

If you're the original owner, Moen will send you a new cartridge at no charge. I don't know if the ones you got at the big box stores were Moen or generic, but I would go with the Moen.

You could also try removing the cartridge and filling the cavity with CLR and let it sit a while to remove any deposits in the bore.

The last Moen I had (the very last) needed constant work, and I found out a very thin schmear (wipe on, wipe off) of clear dielectric grease improved the feel and even stopped the persistent drip.

John

 

[Marlinman]

If the handle has to be pushed down to turn it off this indicates the handle is not assembled properly. If you remove the handle and look inside you will see the end of the lever has either a loop or a hook shaped end. That part must engage the groove in the retainer nut.

 

[Jeff H Young]

sorry didnt read well, having the faucet work normal for a few weeks then getting hard to operate isnt a problem i had happen . improper assembly i would expect to cause imediate issues. It shouldnt be too hard to remove handle and try working faucet by just gripping the cartridge with pliers it should move very easy on a 2 week old or even 2 month old cartridge.