How to Fix a Blocked Screen on a Moen Faucet

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Things You'll Need

  • Slip-joint pliers

  • Spray lubricant

  • Dish soap

  • Old toothbrush

  • Teflon tape

Moen is a manufacturer of many styles of kitchen and bath faucets. All the Moen models have a screen that is installed at the end of the faucet spout. This screen is called an aerator. The function of an aerator is to direct the stream of water down into the sink. Without the aerator, the water sprays wildly as it exits the end of the spout. Over time, the aerator can become clogged and may need to be cleaned.

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Step 1

Inspect the end of the faucet spout and find the aerator.

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Step 2

Unscrew the aerator using a pair of slip-joint pliers. Grasp the sides of the aerator and turn it counterclockwise. Grab only the aerator and not the spout of the faucet. Loosen the aerator until you can remove it by hand.

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Step 3

Spray the aerator with a spray lubricant and let it soak for 15 to 20 minutes. The lubricant will penetrate and break down the dirt and debris on the aerator's screen.

Step 4

Scrub the aerator with an old toothbrush in dish soap and hot water. Rinse the aerator thoroughly with hot water.

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Step 5

Wrap the threads with Teflon tape to help seal the connection. Reinstall the aerator by turning it clockwise onto the end of the faucet spout by hand to ensure it does not become cross-threaded. Tighten it slightly with the slip-joint pliers.

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