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Moen Solutions

Bathroom Faucet: Leaking Around the Base of the Faucet

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Faucet Symptom-The bathroom faucet is leaking water around the base of the faucet . When the handle is turned on the water puddles around the faucet base.

Recommended Solution-Water can leak from various areas. A handle leak can puddle onto the base plate (escutcheon) making it appear to be a leak at the base of the faucet. You will want to confirm the water on the base plate (escutcheon) is not a handle leak. You can test for a handle leak by wrapping a paper towel around the handle and turning on the faucet. If the faucet is leaking from the handle, See article Bathroom Faucet: Leaking Around the Handle of the Faucet.

If the faucet is leaking around the base of the faucet:

  • If you have a single handle faucet (any style), remove and clean the aerator.  Rethread aerator onto the faucet: 
    • If the leak stops, you fixed your spout base leak.
    • If the leak persists, replace the cartridge.
  • If you have a two handle centerset faucet, remove and clean the aerator.  Rethread aerator onto the faucet: 
    • If the leak stops, you fixed your spout base leak.
    • If the leak persists, replace the cartridge.
  • If you have a two handle mini widespread faucet, you will need to replace the faucets O-rings.
  • If you have a two handle widespread faucet, you will need to replace the faucets O-rings.

Frequently Asked Questions-

"How do I determine which parts I need?"

  • "I have my model number"- If you have your model number you can access replacement parts on Moen.com
  • "I have no information"- You can identify your full faucet and replacement parts by visiting the Identify my Product page on Moen.com, or you can contact us at 1-800-BUY-MOEN.

"Are my parts under warranty"- Moen has a faucet warranty and a parts warranty. To view the full warranty, see Moen.com.

"Can I purchase my parts at my local home center?- No, however, they are available to purchase directly through Moen.com or by calling 1-800-BUY-MOEN.

"How do I repair my parts?"- For additional information on Moen products visit solutions.moen.com and select the type of product you are repairing. The guide will contain repair details, troubleshooting and specific information on assembling handles associated with that style of product.


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