Delta faucets are known for their durability and style. However, even the best faucets can eventually start to leak. If your Delta faucet is leaking, it may be time to replace the cartridge. Replacing a Delta faucet cartridge is a relatively easy task that can be completed in under an hour.
Before you begin, you will need to gather a few tools. These tools include a Phillips head screwdriver, an adjustable wrench, and a pair of pliers. You will also need to purchase a new Delta faucet cartridge. The type of cartridge you need will depend on the model of your faucet. You can find the model number of your faucet on the bottom of the faucet body. Once you have gathered your tools and materials, you can begin the process of replacing the cartridge.
The first step is to turn off the water supply to the faucet. You can do this by closing the shut-off valves that are located under the sink. Once the water supply is turned off, you can remove the handle from the faucet. To do this, use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws that are holding the handle in place. Once the screws are removed, you can pull the handle straight up to remove it from the faucet. Now, you can use an adjustable wrench to loosen the packing nut. The packing nut is located at the base of the faucet body. Once the packing nut is loosened, you can pull the cartridge straight out of the faucet body. Now, you can install the new cartridge. To do this, simply insert the cartridge into the faucet body and tighten the packing nut. Finally, you can reassemble the faucet by attaching the handle and turning on the water supply.
Removing the Faucet Handle and Screws
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Use the shut-off valves beneath the sink to turn off the cold and hot water supplies. If there are no shut-off valves, you must turn off the main water supply to your home.
Step 2: Remove the Handle Cap
Locate the small cap covering the handle screw. Use a flathead screwdriver or a quarter to gently pry off the cap. It may require some force to remove, but be careful not to damage it.
Step 3: Remove the Handle Screw
Once the handle cap is removed, you will see a screw holding the handle in place. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to unscrew it. The handle should now come off easily.
Step 4: Remove the Trim Plate
Depending on the Delta faucet model, you may need to remove a trim plate before accessing the cartridge. Use a flathead screwdriver or a plastic pry tool to gently pry the trim plate loose. Be careful not to scratch or damage the plate.
In some models, the trim plate may be secured by a small screw. If so, use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screw before prying off the trim plate.
| Step | Action |
|—|—|
| 1 | Turn off the water supply. |
| 2 | Remove the handle cap. |
| 3 | Remove the handle screw. |
| 4 | Remove the trim plate (if necessary). |
Extracting the Old Cartridge
6. Removing the Cartridge
a) Pull the cartridge straight up: Use pliers or a cartridge puller to firmly grip the cartridge. Gently pull it straight up and out of the faucet body. If the cartridge is stuck, apply penetrating oil to the base of the cartridge and allow it to sit for a few minutes before trying again.
b) Inspect the cartridge: Once the cartridge is removed, inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. If the cartridge is damaged, it should be replaced.
c) Clean the cartridge seat: Use a damp cloth to clean the cartridge seat in the faucet body. Remove any debris or old O-rings that may be present. This will ensure a proper seal for the new cartridge.
d) Lubricate the new cartridge: Apply a small amount of silicone grease or plumber’s grease to the O-rings and threads of the new cartridge. This will help lubricate the moving parts and prevent leaks.
| Tips for Removing a Stuck Cartridge |
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Installing the New Cartridge
Once you have removed the old cartridge, it’s time to install the new one. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Inspect the new cartridge to make sure it is the correct model and size for your faucet.
2. Apply a small amount of faucet grease to the O-rings on the new cartridge. This will help to create a watertight seal.
3. Insert the new cartridge into the faucet body. Make sure that the O-rings are seated properly in the grooves.
4. Tighten the cartridge retaining nut. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the cartridge.
5. Turn the faucet on and check for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the cartridge retaining nut further.
6. Install the handle and any other components that you removed.
7. Test the faucet to make sure that it is working properly. Here’s a more detailed explanation of step 7:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| a | Turn the faucet on and off several times to check for leaks. |
| b | Check the handle to make sure that it is moving smoothly and that there is no resistance. |
| c | Adjust the water temperature and flow rate to make sure that they are correct. |
Turning the Water Back On
1. Carefully reinsert the new cartridge into the faucet body, aligning the tabs and splines.
2. Thread the retainer nut back onto the cartridge by hand until it is snug.
Tightening the Retainer Nut
3. Use the Delta cartridge wrench or a pair of pliers to tighten the retainer nut further. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the cartridge.
4. Turn on the water supply to the faucet.
5. Check for leaks around the retainer nut and the base of the faucet. If you find any leaks, tighten the nut further.
Adjusting the Water Temperature
6. Open both the hot and cold water handles fully.
7. Use a flat-head screwdriver to adjust the temperature limit stop screw on the hot water handle. Turn the screw clockwise to increase the maximum water temperature, or counterclockwise to decrease it.
Verifying the Temperature Setting
8. Turn off the hot water handle completely.
9. Slowly open the hot water handle again, checking the water temperature as you do so. Adjust the temperature limit stop screw as necessary until the desired water temperature is reached.
Finalizing the Installation
10. Reinstall the faucet handle.
11. Turn the water supply off again.
12. Reconnect the water lines to the faucet.
13. Turn the water supply on and check for leaks.
14. If everything is working properly, your Delta faucet cartridge replacement is complete.
How To Change Delta Faucet Cartridge
Replacing a Delta faucet cartridge is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can easily replace the cartridge and restore your faucet to working order.
1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet. This is typically done by turning off the valves under the sink.
2. Remove the handle from the faucet. This is usually done by unscrewing the set screw on the handle and pulling the handle straight up.
3. Remove the cartridge retainer nut. This nut is typically located at the base of the faucet handle and can be removed with a wrench.
4. Remove the old cartridge. Pull the cartridge straight up to remove it from the faucet body.
5. Insert the new cartridge. Align the new cartridge with the faucet body and push it straight down until it is fully seated.
6. Reinstall the cartridge retainer nut. Tighten the nut with a wrench until it is snug.
7. Reinstall the handle. Push the handle straight down onto the faucet until it is fully seated.
8. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the cartridge retainer nut or the handle until the leak stops.
