If you have a non-removable faucet aerator, we recommend using the Delta faucet screen removal tool. This tool should be able to help you remove your screen.
Faucet Screens
Faucet screens are found within the faucet aerator, which connects to the end of the spout. If your Delta faucet screen is clogged or damaged, it will need to be replaced. However, you don't need to purchase a new faucet just because your old one has seen better days.
Faucet screens are not removable from the faucet aerator. They cannot be cleaned and reused. When replacing a screen in a Delta brand faucet, purchase an entire new aerator, remove the old one from the sink or tub, and replace it with the new one.
Cleaning a Non-removable Aerator
The non-removable aerator is designed for easy cleaning without disassembly. To clean, simply rinse the unit off with running water and use a soft bristle brush to gently scrub. After rinsing and drying, allow the aerator to dry completely before replacing it.
Removing a Non-removable Delta Faucet Aerator
- Unscrew the faucet handle with the right tool.
- Take off the spout, and locate the black rubber washer.
- Remove the washer and then pull out the aerator from the end of the spout.
How to Locate Your Delta Faucet Aerator
The first step is to locate your aerator. The aerator is typically located on the tip of the spout where the water comes out from and is easily removed.
Certain models have a small cache buried in the spout that needs to be unscrewed, but these are rare. Once you find it, gently pull outward on it and twist counterclockwise at a 45-degree angle.
When your aerator has been successfully removed, you will see either black rubber or white plastic underneath it. This thin piece is called the O-ring and often becomes clogged with minerals and debris.
Functions of the Aerator
The aerator is where the water comes out. When you see your water faucet, there’s some kind of screen on it, and that’s what allows the water to sort of trickle out instead of gushing out. The aerator also has a screen, which takes out any sediment that could be in the water.
Some Delta models use a square-shaped female thread and others have a rectangular one
Some Delta models use a square-shaped female thread and others have a rectangular one. To determine which you have, look at the top of your aerator. If it has four sides with 90º angles then it's square. If it has two sides with 90º angles and two without, then it's rectangular.
There is either an easy removal tool or an easy process to follow for DIY removal for each type. In either case, keep in mind that the threads are opposite of normal (righty tighty, lefty loosey).
The easiest way to remove a square-shaped aerator is by using a special delta faucet aerator removal key (or "wrench") available at most hardware stores and online sellers like Amazon or eBay.
Once you have this tool on hand, just put it around the threaded part of your aerator and turn counterclockwise until removed.
Using Pliers
If you don’t have an aerator key, you can use pliers instead. Choose a small pair of pliers with a box joint that will fit inside the aerator housing.
Needle-nose pliers work well, but keep in mind that the jaws may be too long and the size is not adjustable. You can also try a pair of snap ring pliers or your adjustable wrench with a locking position at the end of its jaw for a tighter grip.
You'll need to use more force than when using an aerator key, so be sure you have a firm grip on your faucet handle before applying torque to your aerator.
Place one jaw of your tool over the notch and grip firmly on the other side to loosen and remove it from the faucet spout. If you're having trouble removing it by hand, wrap two layers of tape around each jaw (so they won't scratch your fixture), then hold your tool in place while turning its handle clockwise until it comes free.
Don't Twist Too Hard
Start by unscrewing the aerator in a clockwise direction. This may take some time, and you'll have to be patient. If the aerator is on particularly tight, there are a variety of things that can help loosen it up:
- Soak the aerator in hot water for about ten minutes.
- Apply some lubricant such as petroleum jelly or penetrating oil to make it spin easier.
- Turn on both sides of the bathtub/sink faucet (the hot side and cold side) just until they're dripping—this will help to loosen up any build-up in the aerator threads. When done, close them off again by turning them off completely (all the way).
Conclusion
With the removal of the screen, you have successfully cleaned your Delta faucet. Now that the faucet is all squeaky clean, you can enjoy your Delta faucet's crisp, fresh water. Congratulations on a job well done!