Spout is difficult to rotate
Typical Cause
This is caused by debris and/or an impaired o-ring inside of the spout.
Solution
For non-pullout or non-pulldown faucets:
- Remove the spout and lubricate the spout o-rings with silicone-based grease (Moen part number 99915). Do not use plumber's grade faucet grease, silicon sprays or any lubricant that may contain petroleum. Petroleum-based lubricants may react with the rubber seals and cause the spout to become even more difficult to operate. It is also recommended that you clean the inside of the spout and the outside of the valve body when replacing the o-rings.
- Replace the o-rings inside of the spout. The number of o-rings inside of your spout will vary depending on the model. It is essential to identify the model of the faucet in order to obtain the proper Moen service kit with the correct spout o-rings for your model; and different models utilize different sizes of o-rings. Please view our Find Your Product section to determine your model and the correct Moen service kit that will have the proper o-rings. Remember to clean the inside of the spout and the outside of the valve body when replacing the o-rings, as well as lubricating the o-rings with silicone-based grease (Moen part number 99915).
- Inspect the retainer nut on top of the spout (if applicable). Make sure it is not overly tightened.
Note: If the mounting nut underneath the sink is overly tightened to the mounting bracket, this could cause the spout to be difficult to rotate.
For pullout or pulldown faucets:
- Remove the spout receptor and clean any debris that is impeding the movement.
- If there is corrosion on the valve body of the interior of the spout receptor, the faucet will need to be replaced.
Note: If the mounting nut underneath the sink is overly tightened to the mounting bracket, this could cause the spout receptor to be difficult to rotate.