How To Fix a Delta Shower Faucet Leak

This is why you need to attend to the issue straightaway rather than wait until the weekend when you have all the free time. And if you’re a landlord, respond to the issue right away as well when your tenant brings it up.

Here’s the thing about shower faucets: you can adjust the temperature depending on whether you want a cold shower or a hot shower. Now, problems will surely arise when the temperature adjustment is set to hot because that would mean added costs to your gas bill. This just illustrates the importance of tending to the problem right away rather than waiting.

What You’ll Need

You need to have everything with you before you start working on your shower faucet. This way, you don’t have to be running about the house looking for whatever tools and equipment you need to get the job done. This is why this guide will be highlighting everything that you need before you get to work on your faucet.

Here’s a list of what you need:

• Delta assembly kit (since there are different models of Delta shower faucets, take a picture of what yours looks like before heading to the hardware store. But if you know the exact make and mode (and are sure about it) then you can proceed properly.)
• Adjustable pliers
• Flat-head screwdriver
• Allen wrench set
• Phillips-head screwdriver (some models of Delta shower faucets might require you to remove the handle set with this tool)

Fixing a Delta Shower Faucet Leak

2. Release any pressure or excess water by opening the faucet handle fully.

3. Use the screwdriver to remove the faucet handle button. With an appropriate-sized Allen wrench, remove the handle set screw. Remove the handle and then set aside.

4. Take off the outside sleeve and then unscrew the brass bonnet.

5. Take note off the position of the cartridge hot side that is labeled “Hot Side.” Use pliers to grasp the brass valve stem then pull the cartridge right out.

6. Insert the new cartridge that is labeled “Hot Side” (found in the cap) into the same position that you noted earlier when you removed the old cartridge. Make sure the cartridge is seated properly by ensuring that the tabs on white cap is fully engaged in notched on the brass body.

7. Replace the brass bonnet then tighten it using your hands. After that, replace the outside sleeve.

8. Check the positioning of the rotation limit stop or RLS on the new cartridge to make sure it’s in the proper position. The RLS is basically the adjustable lever and positioning notches which is located on the top edge of the cartridge. Make sure that the RLS of the new cartridge should be in the same position as the old one.

9. Replace handle and then the handle button. Open the handle fully. Turn the water supply back on. There might be air or dirty water that will come out when you do this and you should just let it run – let everything flush out.

10. After doing that, check for leaks and also check to see if the temperature control is working properly.

When you’ve done all of the above without a hitch, you’ve solved the problem with your Delta shower faucet. Then again, there are times when you did everything you could but the problem still persisted. If this is the case, it’s best to call in a professional plumber to help you out.

Shower Faucet Care and Maintenance

Yes, faucets are designed to last long but you also have to do your part to make sure it does have a long life. After all, you don’t want to be changing faucets every so often, right? That said, here are some care and maintenance tips for your shower faucets:

Clean your faucet to maintain its finish.

• Use a damp cloth and mild household cleanser to wipe your faucet.
• Use a soft cloth to dry your faucet to maintain its luster and shine.
• Mix a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and water to remove hard water stains. Rinse with water thoroughly after doing so.

Using the wrong products can cause damage to the finish of your faucet. Here’s a list of what to avoid:

• industrial cleaners
• abrasive cleaners
• toilet bowl cleaners
• bleach-based cleaners
• polish
• ammonia solutions
• heavy-duty scrub sponges
• products that remove tarnish and rust
• products that contain hydrofluoric, hydrochloric and/or phosphoric acids and caustic agents