Delta shower valves are a great way to save water and money. Moreover, they are made from high-quality materials, which means they’re durable and will last for years to come. They also have high flow rates, which means less water waste than other types of shower valves.
With that said any homeowner or business owner would want to tap into all these positive attributes. The thing, though, is that they have faucets or shower valves from different brands – which begs the question, are all Delta shower valves the same?
Well, essentially, they are. That is why they are branded as “universal.” However, as you will soon find out, there is a twist to that.
Functionality
Delta shower valves are designed to regulate water and temperature from showers or baths. They are often used in combination with Jacuzzi tubs, which use similar systems.
These valves link to the shower faucet so that when you turn on your shower, water flows to the cold pipe. The same happens with hot water, and the two mix before getting to your showerhead so that you can enjoy warm baths.
Functionality vs. Design
Delta shower valves are all the same. As previously mentioned, they are labeled as universal. Most people would assume that this means the valves can connect to any faucet regardless of the brand. However, that is entirely wrong.
You see, by the term ‘universal’ or ‘standard,’ the manufacturer of Delta shower valves means that they can be used interchangeably within the brand. Simply put, you can replace your old shower valve with a new one as long as both of them are from Delta.
Can they be used with Other Brands?
Delta shower valves are one of the most popular in the industry. However, there are other brands of shower valves available as well. Some people may be wondering if they can use these with their existing faucets or showers.
The answer is no because Delta will not fit any other brand of faucet or showerhead. Now, you want to keep in mind that these valves come in different finishes and designs. However, when it comes to how they function, there is no difference. This is why they can be used interchangeably within the brand.
If you have a different brand of shower valve, you will have to purchase a new one from another manufacturer.
Replacing a Delta Shower Valve
Delta shower valves play a major role in your shower’s plumbing system. They’re designed to provide water flow control, so you can adjust the pressure of your shower head as needed. However, they are prone to malfunction.
If you notice signs like mold, inconsistent water supply, not heating water, and leakages, it may be time for a replacement. But how do you go about it? If you are a novice, you may find it difficult to know where to start.
No worries, though; here are the steps you need to follow.
Step 1 – Place an Absorbent Piece of Cloth on the Floor
Before you begin the replacement process, you want to find a piece of absorbent cloth that you will place on the floor. This will catch any water that may spill out of your showerhead or tub faucet when you remove it from its holder. If you don’t have an absorbent piece of cloth nearby, use a towel instead.
Step 2 – Turn off the Water Supply
Next, you want to turn off the water supply to your shower. This will prevent any water from being drawn from the supply line. You can do this with a shut-off valve in the main water line or by flipping the main shut-off on your sink faucet.
Step 3 – Detach the Shower Handle
After turning off the water, you need to detach the shower handle. You can do this with a tool designed for this purpose, which would be a screwdriver or Allen wrench. Once you have removed all the screws, you can easily detach the shower handle.
Step 4 – Take out the Trim Plate
Now that the shower handle is out of your way, the trim plate is exposed and hence easier to remove. If you have no idea what a trim plate is, it is a flat piece that covers the plumbing hole in the wall as well as the shower valve. You can easily see it because it is behind the shower handle.
To take it out, you need to loosen the screws securing it and pull it down. A screwdriver will come in handy here.
Step 5 – Make an Opening
As soon as you take the trim plate out, the plumbing hole will be exposed. If you peep, you will see the shower valve. Of course, you need to access it, and to do that; you will have to make an opening in the wall.
Make one that is no less than 12 inches.
Step 6 – Take out the Valve Clip
In order to remove the old shower valve and install a new one, you’ll need to first remove it. To do this, you’ll need to take out the valve clip. This will be done by detaching the clip on the metal end.
To do this, you will need a pair of pliers. Once you complete this step, you will get full access to the shower valve.
Step 7 – Replace the Valve
Now that you have access to your Delta shower valve, it’s time to install a new one. First, you’ll want to make sure that all of your parts are secure in place before continuing with the installation. Next, you want to get hold of your new shower valve and place it where the old valve was.
Next, you want to screw it in until it is tightly secured.
At this point, the process is complete, so you want to put the trim plate as well as the handle back in place. Restore your water supply and turn on your shower. This will help you determine if there are any leakages. If there are none, you’re good to go.