You do not need the model number to find the right Moen part. The cartridge can be identified from what the handle does, what is under it, and what the cartridge looks like once it is out. Work through the checks in order and stop when one matches. Each result links to the repair page and to the manufacturer’s part page, which has a photo you can compare against.
Before you start. The first checks need no tools. The later ones mean removing the handle, so shut off the two small valves under the sink first (or the house main for a shower) and open the faucet to confirm the water has stopped. You will need a screwdriver and a hex key (Allen wrench). Start here explains how a handle comes off.
Check 1: what does the handle do?
- The handle lifts or pulls out for volume and swings side to side for temperature, on a sink: single handle sink cartridge. Go to check 2.
- The handle only rotates, on a tub or shower, and does not pull or push: Moen Posi-Temp, cartridge 1222. The round wall plate has two screws at about the 2 o’clock and 7 o’clock positions. 1222 replacement.
- The handle pulls out and rotates, on a tub or shower: Moen Standard or Moentrol valve, cartridge 1225. 1225 replacement.
- Two handles, or three on a shower: one cartridge under each, the 1224 (or the older 1234). 1224 and 1234 guide.
Check 2: how old is the faucet?
- Installed before about 2009, or the house was built before then and the faucet looks original: almost certainly the 1225. Go to check 3 to confirm.
- Installed 2009 or later, or the faucet is an Arbor, Align, Brantford, Adler, Genta, Method, or a current Chateau: almost certainly the 1255. Go to check 3 to confirm.
- A kitchen faucet from 2005 to 2009, especially a Dorsey or Torrance: possibly the 4000. Check 3 settles it.
- A Sleek or other faucet bought in 2025 or later: the 1269. 1269 replacement.
Check 3: what is holding the cartridge in?
Remove the handle (pry the cap, loosen the set screw with a hex key, lift the handle off) and the dome or sleeve under it. Look at the top of the cartridge.
- A U-shaped copper clip pushed into a slot across the top: 1225. Under the clip the cartridge has a clear or white plastic shell with a brass stem. 1225 replacement. If the body under the clip is solid brass with no plastic shell, it is the original 1200, and the 1225 is its replacement.
- A round threaded nut, brass or plastic, and no clip: 1255. The cartridge under it is brass and plastic. 1255 replacement.
- A brass hexagonal nut: 4000. 4000 replacement.
- A black nut recessed into the body that needs a 25 mm socket: 1269.
Photos to compare against
- Moen 1225 cartridge at Home Depot
- Moen 1255 cartridge at Home Depot
- Moen 1222 cartridge at Home Depot
- Moen 4000 cartridge at Home Depot
If none of these match
Pull the cartridge out, take a photo of it next to a ruler, and either call Moen (the number is on the Moen page) or take it to the plumbing desk at a hardware store. Cartridges are matched on sight every day. Do not buy a part until it is matched; most are not returnable once opened.
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