Installing a Delta shower faucet can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and a little patience, it can be done in a few hours. So, if you’re ready to give your shower a fresh new look, read on for a step-by-step guide on how to install a Delta shower faucet.
Before you begin, gather all of the tools and materials you’ll need. You’ll need a Phillips head screwdriver, an adjustable wrench, a pair of pliers, a hacksaw, and a level. You’ll also need some Teflon tape, a new shower faucet, and a new shower arm. Once you have all of your tools and materials, you’re ready to get started.
The first step is to turn off the water supply to your shower. You can do this by turning off the main water valve or by turning off the valves under the sink. Once the water is turned off, you can remove the old shower faucet. To do this, simply unscrew the screws that are holding it in place. Once the screws are removed, you can pull the old faucet off of the shower arm.
Pre-Installation Considerations
1. Gather Necessary Tools and Materials
Before beginning the installation process, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials. These may include a screwdriver, adjustable wrench, plumber’s tape, and a level. Additionally, check that you have all the parts required for your specific Delta shower faucet model.
2. Evaluate Existing Plumbing and Fixtures
Inspect your existing plumbing and fixtures to determine if any updates or modifications are needed. For instance, if you’re replacing an old shower faucet, check if the wall studs are properly spaced to accommodate the new faucet’s mounting bracket. You may also need to adjust the water supply lines to match the distance between the faucet and the valves.
| Pipe Material | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Copper | Ensure the copper pipes are cleaned and free of debris before connecting the new faucet. |
| PEX | Check the condition of the PEX tubing and replace any damaged or worn sections. |
| CPVC | Use a pipe cutter to cut CPVC pipes cleanly and avoid kinking or crushing. |
3. Determine Faucet Placement and Height
Decide on the desired location and height of your Delta shower faucet. The ideal height will vary depending on your height and personal preference. Once you have determined the placement, mark the wall with a pencil or tape to serve as a guide during installation.
Step-by-Step Guide: Removing the Old Faucet
3. Removing the Valve Cartridge
a. Accessing the Cartridge
First, locate the access caps located on the backsplash of the faucet. They are usually red or blue and labeled with “H” and “C” for hot and cold valves. Use a slotted screwdriver or coin to pry off the caps.
b. Removing the Stem Handle
Under the access cap, you will find the stem handle. Use a hex wrench or socket to loosen the screw holding the handle in place. Grip the handle and pull it straight up to remove it.
c. Installing the Valve Removal Tool
Insert the provided valve removal tool into the opening where the handle was located. Ensure that the tool is fully inserted and seated properly. This tool is designed to fit the specific cartridge used in Delta faucets.
d. Removing the Cartridge
Using a wrench or pliers, turn the valve removal tool counterclockwise to remove the cartridge. Pull the cartridge straight out of the housing. Note any washers or O-rings that may need to be replaced.
Tips
- Use caution when prying off the access caps to avoid scratching the backsplash.
- If the cartridge is stuck, you may need to apply some penetrating oil around the base and let it sit for a while.
- Inspect the cartridge for any visible damage or wear. If it is damaged, it will need to be replaced with a new one.
Installing the Shower Arm and Head
1. **Attach the shower arm to the wall outlet.** Apply plumber’s tape to the threads of the shower arm and hand-tighten it onto the wall outlet. Use a wrench to fully tighten it, ensuring a secure connection.
2. **Install the escutcheon.** Slide the escutcheon over the shower arm, aligning the holes in the escutcheon with the screw holes in the wall. Secure the escutcheon with screws, ensuring it covers the base of the shower arm.
3. **Apply Teflon tape to the showerhead connection.** Wrap a few turns of Teflon tape clockwise around the threads of the showerhead connection. This will help to create a watertight seal.
4. **Screw the showerhead onto the shower arm.** Hand-tighten the showerhead onto the shower arm, then use a wrench to further tighten it. Ensure the showerhead is securely attached.
5. **Adjust the angle of the showerhead.** Loosen the set screw on the showerhead mount, adjust the angle of the showerhead, and then tighten the set screw to secure it in place.
6. **Install the shower hose.** Connect one end of the shower hose to the showerhead and the other end to the shower outlet. Hand-tighten the connections, then use a wrench to fully tighten them. Ensure the hose is securely attached and there are no leaks.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Wrench | Tightening connections |
| Plumber’s tape | Creating watertight seals |
| Screwdriver | Securing escutcheon |
| Set screw | Adjusting showerhead angle |
Tightening and Sealing the Faucet
Once the faucet is in place, it needs to be tightened and sealed to prevent any leaks. Follow these steps to ensure a secure and watertight installation:
7. Install the Shower Head
For a Single-Handle Shower:
- Apply plumber’s tape to the threads of the shower arm.
- Screw the shower head onto the arm by hand, then tighten it with a wrench.
For a Two-Handle Shower:
- Connect the shower handle to the cold and hot water valves.
- Tighten the nuts by hand, then use a wrench to further tighten them.
- Install the shower head and tighten it.
General Tips:
- Use plumber’s tape or thread sealant for all threaded connections.
- Avoid overtightening the connections.
- Double-check all connections before turning on the water.
| Type of Faucet | Tightening Tool |
|---|---|
| Single-Handle Shower | Wrench or Channel-Lock Pliers |
| Two-Handle Shower | Wrench or Channel-Lock Pliers |
| Tub/Shower Combination | Wrench or Channel-Lock Pliers |
Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues
9. Leaking from the Handle
There are a few reasons why the handle might leak, including:
- Worn O-rings are the most common culprit for leaks from the handle. Use a screwdriver or wrench to carefully remove the handle and inspect the O-rings. If they are worn or damaged, replace them with new ones.
- Loose screws can also cause leaks. Check to make sure all the screws on the handle are tight. If any of them are loose, tighten them using a screwdriver or wrench.
- A faulty cartridge is another possible cause of a leaking handle. A cartridge is a small part that controls the flow of water through the faucet. If the cartridge is damaged or worn, it can cause water to leak from the handle. To replace the cartridge, turn off the water supply to the faucet and remove the handle. The cartridge is typically located behind the handle. Use a wrench or pliers to remove the old cartridge and replace it with a new one.
- A cracked or damaged faucet body can also cause a leak. If the faucet body is cracked or damaged, it will need to be replaced. To replace the faucet body, turn off the water supply to the faucet and remove the handle. The faucet body is typically held in place by a few screws. Remove the screws and pull the faucet body out. Install the new faucet body and tighten the screws.
How to Install a Delta Shower Faucet
Installing a Delta shower faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can easily replace your old shower faucet with a new Delta model.
- Before you begin, gather all of the necessary tools and materials. You will need a Phillips head screwdriver, an adjustable wrench, a pair of pliers, and a utility knife.
- Turn off the water supply to your shower. To do this, locate the main water shut-off valve and turn it clockwise until it is closed.
- Remove the old shower faucet. To do this, use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts that hold it in place. Once the nuts are loose, you can remove the faucet by hand.
- Clean the shower wall where the new faucet will be installed. To do this, use a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris.
- Install the new Delta shower faucet. To do this, first, place the new faucet in the hole in the shower wall. Then, tighten the nuts that hold it in place. Be sure to tighten the nuts until they are snug, but do not overtighten them.
- Connect the water supply lines to the new faucet. To do this, use the pliers to tighten the nuts that connect the lines to the faucet. Be sure to tighten the nuts until they are snug, but do not overtighten them.
- Turn on the water supply to your shower. To do this, locate the main water shut-off valve and turn it counterclockwise until it is open.
- Test the new faucet to make sure it is working properly. To do this, turn on the water and check for any leaks. If you find any leaks, tighten the nuts that connect the water supply lines to the faucet until the leaks stop.
People Also Ask
Can I install a Delta shower faucet myself?
Yes, you can install a Delta shower faucet yourself if you have some basic plumbing skills. By following the step-by-step instructions above, you can easily replace your old shower faucet with a new Delta model.
What tools do I need to install a Delta shower faucet?
You will need a Phillips head screwdriver, an adjustable wrench, a pair of pliers, and a utility knife.
How long does it take to install a Delta shower faucet?
It should take you no more than a few hours to install a Delta shower faucet.
Do I need to turn off the water supply to install a Delta shower faucet?
Yes, you will need to turn off the water supply to your shower before you begin installing the new faucet.
