Are Moen Faucet Handles Interchangeable? – Find Out!
Faucet handles can go bad, and you may need to consider swapping them as soon as possible. And if it’s from Moen, then you can surely find the right replacement from the makers as soon as you contact them.
But before that, you want to know, are Moen faucet handles interchangeable? I get it! Finding a replacement for a fixture part can be daunting, and sometimes it’s almost impossible to access.
And then, such solutions start to take over the mind. But let me stop you there!
Generally, Moen faucet handles are not interchangeable. And this is because of the specific handle assembly and interior mechanism that are quite hard to match.
Sometimes, if you try hard enough, finding a close interchangeable option may be possible. But then, you should not have much hope of getting that safe and secure fit overall.
Let’s discuss the interchangeability of faucet handles so that it makes sense.
Moen Faucet Handles Are Hardly Interchangeable
For the most part, it is not possible to interchange Moen faucet handles. But you may consider checking in a local shop with the idea of handle assembly and mechanism to find a match.
Very rarely, it might be possible to interchange within the same brand. Now, in general, are faucet handles interchangeable?
There are generic handles that are available for users with proper adapters. And then maybe it is possible to go for an interchange.
To make sure two handles are interchangeable, both need to have similar handle assemblies and mechanisms.
Identifying Model Number, Handle Assembly, and Mechanism
So how do I find Moen faucet model number? Well, that will be necessary for identifying the things I just mentioned.
To find the Moen faucet model number, you need to check the box that it came in. Also, the instruction sheet will have the information. However, if you don’t find any of these, then for non-pull-out style models, check the back of the spout, as the family series number should be there.
To Identify the Handle Assembly −
To Identify the Handle Mechanism −
Interchanging Moen Faucet Handle with Different Brand Options
Adapters to interchange handle between brands without replacing the entire valve unit is a tough call. And to be fair, it’s almost impossible.
Now the valve unit replacement may make things less daunting. However, the process is quite difficult and involved.
Also, are Moen valves interchangeable? Not really! A proper fit is necessary for the fixture and valve with the right compatibility set by the makers, as these function in tandem.
Or else the fixture will fail to work at all.
The valve behind the wall needs to be cut. And then, you will have access to the valve. Turning off the water, then cutting out the old valve to fit the new valve connected with piping will be necessary steps.
But that’s not it! There’s also a need for installing support framing to anchor the valve. Final testing to make sure the installation is right would be necessary.
The wall will also need some repair. To handle this job, a professional plumber should be your best bet. It will take only a few hours that way.
Of course, after this, you also need to hire someone to repair the wall through patchwork. You may also need to do the painting.
To sum up, I feel like going for a different brand handle is actually less benefitting. And if it’s possible, try to stick with the Moen valve.
Tips to Determine the Interchangeability of Handles
- It’s always a good idea to discuss with a professional before interchanging faucet handles. You want to tell them about the handle assembly and mechanism. And an expert will be able to give a guided answer based on those specs.
- Keep in mind that each make and model of Moen faucet comes with varying specifications. Some may have screws for the handle, while others need a different connection mechanism. Swapping out one handle with another will need matching specs.
- Consider upgrading the whole piece. You see, changing faucet parts is possible, but there can be many problems that appear after a short while. Experiencing leaks on Moen faucets or a sudden reduction of water pressure are all possible side effects that can take place due to hodgepodge design.
Wrapping Up
So, are Moen faucet handles interchangeable? Should you go for it and start looking for a similar spec replacement part?
I hope you can now make the decision with the concept from this guide. However, I do agree that specs can sometimes be confusing and misleading.
And if you are not sure, don’t shy away from contacting a professional who can give you a more you-situation-based answer to this query.
I hope you’ll be able to get the faucet issue sorted!
