How to Troubleshoot a Leaking Delta Faucet

The sound of a dripping faucet can definitely get under your skin. A leaky faucet can waste up to 20 gallons of water a day and up to 600 gallons a month. This article will detail how to troubleshoot Deltas, as they account for up to 30 percent of the faucets used in the United States.

Things You'll Need

• Allen wrenches
• Product diagram
• Replacement parts
• Teflon tape

Instructions

Fix a Leaky Delta Faucet

1. 

   Locate the diagram of your faucet model at the Delta Web site listed at the bottom of the page. This diagram also will list the replacement parts necessary to fix specific problems.

2. 

   Go under the sink and turn off the hot- and cold-water valves. Make sure the water is completely off by turning on the faucet.

3. Replace the entire spray and hose module if you have a leaky spray head. If the spray head is not working at all, you will need to replace the diverter assembly.

4. Repair leaks under the faucet handle by replacing the stem unit assembly.

5. Replace the O Rings if the leak is at the base of the faucet spout.

6. Fix leaky aerators by replacing the faucet seat and springs. If this does not work or hold for very long, replace the stem unit assembly.

Tips & Warnings

• Look for a Delta faucet repair kit at your local hardware store. This kit is inexpensive and has additional directions for faucet repair. For detailed directions on how to remove and repair specific parts of your faucet, go to one of the Web sites listed below. There are aftermarket repair kits and parts that may fit your faucet, but Delta replacement parts were designed to specifically fit the Delta faucet. A perfect seal cannot be guaranteed with an aftermarket product.

References

• Delta Troubleshooting Web site
• Plumbing Tips
• Fixing a Leaky Faucet

Resources

• Water Conservation Tips