To remove a Delta faucet, turn off the main water supply for the shower by turning the water valve to the right or left, depending on which type of valve you have installed in your home. Valves are usually located near the shower in a wall panel or in the basement by the water meter. Remove the wall panel by loosening the screws with a flat screwdriver.
Remove the faucet cover by prying it off with a flat screwdriver. Use adjustable pliers to loosen the bonnet nut and test cap that are covering the faucet. Pull off the screen to reveal the faucet.
Replace Faucet Cartridge
Insert the cartridge in the opening in the valve body and turn it with your fingers so the words "hot side" appear on the right and "cold side" appears on the left. Place the cartridge into the valve body. Check that the cartridges and O-rings fit snugly into the base of the cartridge body. Slide the bonnet nut over the cartridge with your fingers. Tighten the bonnet nut with an adjustable wrench.
Test the Water
Run the water at the hottest setting. Place a thermometer in the water, but be careful so you do not burn yourself on the hot water. The temperature should be between 90 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Adjust the rotational limit stop in the faucet handle so you achieve the desired temperature. This is a disc that sticks out from underneath the cartridge that controls the temperature so the user is not burned.
The disc can be turned with your fingers and is marked from low to high. The lowest setting allows the least amount of hot water to be mixed with cold water. The further you turn the Rotational Limit Stop counterclockwise, the more hot water will be released. It is best to set the Rotational limit stop near the lowest setting to prevent scalding.
Replace the retaining screw in the shower handle and tighten it with a Phillips screwdriver. Put the faucet handle cover back in place by firmly pressing it. Turn the faucet back on again to make sure it is working properly.
Tips
- The rotational stop limit on the faucet can be routinely adjusted for hotter or cooler water when desired.
- The Delta knobs are usually made out of plastic and may break every few years, so it is a good idea to learn how to replace these yourself, so you can save money and not hire a professional to do this every time.
Dianne Christensen-Hermance - Dianne Christensen-Hermance is an accomplished journalist with more than 10 years experience writing news and feature articles for various ...
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