When the pump on the Moen soap dispenser fails, often the only thing that’s needed to solve the issue is to make sure that it was put correctly in the first place.
On the other hand, there are instances when you will need to make an investment in a new pump before you can continue your typical practice of washing your hands.
Moen Soap Dispenser Pump Not Working?
Check out these tips and tactics for diagnosing and correcting the issue yourself if the pump on your Moen soap dispenser isn’t operating properly.
- Reset the Unit
- Remove the soap dispenser pump from the faucet assembly.
- Fill a container with one quart of vinegar and submerge the pump for 15 minutes to loosen any mineral deposits inside the unit.
- Wipe away any excess liquid and then replace the pump on your faucet assembly, making sure it is securely attached before putting back in place.
- Turn on the water supply and see if it works now. If it still doesn’t work, try replacing the battery (unscrewing screws), resetting the circuit breaker (or unplugging) and then plugging back in or turning it on again.
- Use A Plunger
If you have a clog in your sink, check the hose, and then try using a plunger to clear the blockage. If that doesn’t work, try another sink in your house.
Next, make sure the water is turned on. Turn off the soap dispenser by holding down its switch until it clicks twice – this will reset it.
Let go of the switch after clicking two times, then turn on your water faucet again so there is no air in line before pressing the switch once more to re-enable the soap dispenser.
If the issue persists, move onto the next part.
- Change Out Filters
Remove both filters from the filter canister and rinse them with water. The first filter should be replaced every six months or about every 8,000 gallons (30 cubic meters) filtered.
The second one should be changed every two years or about 20,000 gallons (75 cubic meters).
Reassemble the filter canister and test your soap dispenser again. If the problem persists, continue to read
- Clear Any Obstructions in The Hose
Clear any obstructions in your hose by removing and inspecting it for anything that could cause a blockage.
Check for kinks, clogs or other debris around where the outlet attaches to your wall and remove anything that might be blocking flow.
- Replace the Battery
This can be done by unscrewing the top of the pump, removing the battery, and popping in a new one.
Remember to put your hand over the opening before you remove it so that any residual water doesn’t get on your skin.
If this does not work, you may need to replace the batteries with a fresh set. Here’s How:
- Remove the cover for the battery;
- Replace the old battery with a fresh one;
- Replace cover;
- Turn dispenser on and off three times consecutively.
The pump should turn on. If it still doesn’t work, you’ll have to order a new soap dispenser from Moen as there is no other way to fix this problem.
- Moisten Contacts
One of the easiest things you can do to get your soap dispenser working again is to simply moisten the contacts.
Moistening these contacts will help eliminate an electrical connection problem.
You can also try lubricating these contacts by placing a small amount of cooking oil on them and then turning the power back on to see if this resolves the issue.
If it doesn’t, continue reading for more troubleshooting tips.
- Remove Buildup from Contacts
This is usually caused by buildup from hard water, soap residue and other substances. In order to fix this problem, it is important to remove the buildup.
There are a few different ways that you can do this. One way is to use vinegar as a solution to loosen up the gunk so that it doesn’t clog the pump, which will work with most pumps.
Another option would be to use baking soda and mix it with water in order to create a paste and apply it onto the contacts of your dispenser.
After letting it set for about 15 minutes, scrub away the deposits using a toothbrush.
If you don’t have any of these things on hand, then try using hot water and dish soap or rubbing alcohol to dissolve anything that has built up on the unit over time.
Once the buildup has been removed, turn off power to the unit and flush out the pipes.
Once everything has been flushed out, turn power back on to ensure functionality.
- Identify the Issue
If you find that the soap dispenser pump doesn’t work, it could be for a few different reasons.
The most common reason is that the soap has dried out and clogged up the pump. Take off the top of the dispenser with a screwdriver and place some new soap inside.
Replace the top on the dispenser and try to push down on it to see if it works now.
- Clean It Up and Try Again
If there’s still no change, try submerging the pump in hot water for a few minutes. This will usually solve the problem, or at least make it easier to do next steps.
You can also try using a toothpick or other small object to clear any debris that may have gotten caught in the hinge.
If neither of these solutions work, you’ll need to replace the soap dispenser pump with a new one.
- Call A Professional
If you’ve gone through all of the troubleshooting steps and are still unable to get the pump on your soap dispenser to function, it’s time to call in the experts.
They will be able to identify the problem and get it operating again fast, so preventing costly plumbing repairs that you might have otherwise needed.