Remove Delta Shower Faucet: Expert Guide (Easy Steps)

Removing a Delta Shower Faucet: Your Step-by-Step Guide

This guide provides a clear and straightforward approach to removing a Delta shower faucet. We will cover everything from preparation to the final steps, ensuring you can complete this task efficiently and safely.

Understanding Your Delta Shower Faucet

Before tackling the project of removing your Delta shower faucet, it’s important to understand the basic components and how they work together. This knowledge will make the removal process much smoother.

Identifying the Faucet Type

Delta offers various types of shower faucets, each with slightly different removal procedures. Common types include:

• Single-Handle Faucets: These have one handle controlling both water temperature and volume. Removing these usually involves dealing with a set screw.
• Two-Handle Faucets: These have separate handles for hot and cold water. You’ll likely need to remove escutcheons (decorative plates) and stem extensions.
• Monitor Series Faucets: These often include temperature limit stops for safety. Pay extra attention to these mechanisms during removal.

Common Faucet Components

Familiarize yourself with these parts:

• Handle: The lever or knob you use to control the water.
• Escutcheon (Plate): The decorative plate covering the faucet valve.
• Stem Extension: Connects the handle to the valve stem (in two-handle faucets).
• Set Screw: A small screw that secures the handle to the valve stem.
• Valve Body: The main part of the faucet that controls water flow and temperature.

Preparing for Removal

Proper preparation is crucial for a successful and mess-free removal process.

Gathering Your Tools and Materials

You’ll need these tools:

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and Flathead): For removing screws and adjusting components.
• Allen Wrench Set: For loosening set screws.
• Adjustable Wrench: For loosening and tightening larger nuts and connections.
• Penetrating Oil (WD-40): To loosen stubborn screws or connections.
• Plumber’s Tape: For resealing connections later.
• Towels or Rags: To catch drips and protect surfaces.
• Basin Wrench (Optional): Useful for reaching nuts in tight spaces, especially with older models.
• Work Light: Provides better visibility in the shower.

Shutting Off the Water Supply

This is the most important step!

1. Locate the main water shut-off valve for your house or the individual shut-off valves for the shower. These are typically located near the water meter or in the basement.
2. Turn the valve(s) clockwise to shut off the water supply.
3. Turn on the shower faucet to release any remaining water pressure. Let it run until no water comes out.

Protecting the Shower Area

Cover the shower floor and tub with towels or a drop cloth to protect the surfaces from scratches and debris.

Step-by-Step Removal Process

Follow these steps carefully to safely remove your Delta shower faucet.

Removing the Handle

1. Locate the Set Screw: For single-handle faucets, the set screw is usually located on the side or underneath the handle. Two-handle faucets typically don’t have set screws.
2. Loosen the Set Screw: Use the appropriate size Allen wrench to loosen (but not remove) the set screw.
3. Remove the Handle: Gently pull the handle straight off the valve stem. If it’s stuck, apply some penetrating oil and try again. For two-handle faucets, you may need to unscrew the handles or stem extensions.

Removing the Escutcheon Plate

1. Locate the Screws: The escutcheon plate is usually held in place by screws. These may be visible or hidden under decorative caps.
2. Remove the Screws: Use a screwdriver to remove the screws.
3. Remove the Plate: Gently pull the escutcheon plate away from the wall. It may be caulked in place. If so, carefully use a utility knife to score around the edges before pulling.

Accessing the Valve Body

With the handle and escutcheon removed, you should now have access to the valve body.

Removing the Valve Cartridge (if necessary)

Depending on your faucet type and why you are removing it, you might need to remove the valve cartridge.

1. Identify the Retaining Clip/Nut: Look for a clip or nut holding the cartridge in place.
2. Remove the Clip/Nut: Use pliers or a wrench to remove the clip or nut.
3. Pull Out the Cartridge: Gently pull the cartridge straight out of the valve body. Be careful not to damage it.

Disconnecting the Water Supply Lines

1. Locate the Water Supply Lines: Identify the hot and cold water supply lines connected to the valve body.
2. Loosen the Connections: Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts connecting the water supply lines to the valve body. Place a bucket underneath to catch any remaining water.
3. Disconnect the Lines: Carefully disconnect the water supply lines.

Removing the Valve Body

1. Loosen the Mounting Nuts: The valve body is typically held in place by mounting nuts. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen these nuts. A basin wrench may be necessary for hard-to-reach nuts.
2. Remove the Valve Body: Once the mounting nuts are loose, carefully pull the valve body away from the shower wall.
3. Inspect the Connections: Examine the pipe connections for any damage or corrosion.

Important Considerations

• Photograph Each Step: Take photos as you disassemble the faucet. This will be invaluable when reinstalling a new faucet or reassembling the old one.
• Keep Parts Organized: Place removed parts in labeled bags or containers to avoid confusion during reassembly.
• Consult a Professional: If you encounter any difficulties or are unsure about any step, consult a qualified plumber. Incorrect installation can lead to water damage.

So, there you have it – a straightforward guide to removing delta shower faucet! Hopefully, things went smoothly. If not, don’t hesitate to call in a pro. Happy showering!