Alfred Moen: Inventor of the Single-Handle Sink Faucet
Read more
Alfred M. Moen, whose quest to develop a superior faucet stemmed from nearly burning his hands, passed away on Tuesday in Destin, Fla., at the age of 86.
Moen revolutionized the plumbing industry by inventing the single-handle faucet, which combines hot and cold water before it exits the fixture. This innovation not only altered American homes but also laid the foundation for Moen Inc., one of the world's leading kitchen and bath plumbing fixture manufacturers.
The Early Years
The journey of this remarkable invention dates back to 1937 when Moen was a college student working evenings at a garage to support his education at the University of Washington. One night, after his shift, he used a standard two-handle faucet at the sink and was surprised by a burst of scalding water. This incident ignited his curiosity.
"It got me thinking," Moen said, "that you ought to be able to get what you wanted out of a faucet."
The Birth of a Revolutionary Idea
Moen envisioned a faucet design that could control water volume and temperature simultaneously. His engineering background spurred him to work on creating a single-handle mixing faucet. Although his initial design faced skepticism from plumbing manufacturers, Moen remained steadfast in his vision.
Challenges and Triumphs
World War II posed material shortages, forcing Moen to set aside his project as he worked as a tool designer and served in the Navy. But he never abandoned his dream.
In 1947, after a decade of persistence, Ravenna Metal Products in Seattle became the first manufacturer to produce Moen’s faucets, selling 250 units to a supplier in San Francisco. The product's affordability and user-friendliness led to increased demand, with the production rising to 5,000 units annually.
Recognition and Impact
By 1950, Moen's single-handle faucet had gained widespread popularity, and in 1959, Fortune magazine recognized it as one of the top 100 best-designed mass-produced products. Today, over 70% of kitchen faucets sold in the United States feature Moen’s single-handle design.
Technological Advancements
Moen's contributions extended beyond the single-handle faucet. His replaceable cartridge eliminated washers, drips, and leaks, while his pressure-balancing valve prevented shower shock. He also developed the screen aerator to prevent sediment buildup and the swivel spray to adjust water flow.
UVDF are exported all over the world and different industries with quality first. Our belief is to provide our customers with more and better high value-added products. Let's create a better future together.
A Life of Innovation
Moen never held an ownership stake in the company named after him. Instead, he chose a behind-the-scenes role, leading the research and development division until his retirement in 1982. He held over 75 patents by the end of his career.
Personal Life and Legacy
In his spare time, Moen enjoyed roller skating, placing second in men's figure roller skating in Washington state championships. He also learned to fly, starting with float-planes before moving on to conventional aircraft. Despite his many talents, he identified himself simply as an "Inventor" on his business card.
"Al Moen was a giant in the plumbing industry," said Bruce Carbonari, chairman and CEO of Moen Inc. "The conveniences many of us enjoy in our homes today came from the ideas of this gentle, inventive man."
Moen is survived by his daughter, Christine, of Destin, Fla.; his son, Eric, of North Ridgeville, Ohio; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Comments
0