The Delta Faucets come with features that vary from model to model, but if you want to remove a Delta faucet in general, the procedure is similar to that of removing any other type of faucet. The difficulty of the process is dependent on whether you are dealing with a Delta kitchen faucet or a Delta shower faucet.
Delta Basin Wrench
A basin wrench is very efficient in removing an old Delta kitchen faucet. The reason is, that turning the nuts to release the faucet from the sink or countertop will be very difficult to do without a basin wrench. To remove an entire Delta shower faucet assembly, on the other hand, is something that would need you to hire a plumber. This particular procedure may also require you to have a contractor, since you may have to demolish the wall to disconnect the valve housing from the pipes.
If the only thing you want to do is to remove the Delta faucet handle or valve, you can easily do that by yourself from inside the Delta shower.
Hex Wrench
Delta is well known for ball-valve faucets. These are usually characterized by a rotating ball-shaped valve that glides over spring-loaded gaskets that are found in the water inlet holes.
To remove the Delta faucet valve, you need to shut off the water first. Then unscrew the handle using a Delta faucet tool known as a hex wrench. You can use lubricating fluid, such as WD-40, to help you out.
Once the Delta faucet handle is off, then you will have access to the collar that is used to hold the ball in place.
Lock Pliers
Turn the collar counterclockwise using a pair of locking pliers. This should result in the ball falling out.
Screwdriver
Afterwards, use a screwdriver to remove the Delta gaskets and springs from the inlet holes. Make sure the Delta gaskets and springs do not fall down the drain!
The procedure for removing the Delta faucet cartridges is similar to that of removing the ball valve. Grasp the Delta faucet valve stem using a pair of pliers and then pull it to unscrew the retaining nut to remove the Delta faucet handle. If this fails to work, spray a lubricant into the gap that is between the Delta faucet valve and the housing assembly. Let the lubricant stay on it for about 10 minutes and then try once more.
How to Remove a Delta Sink Faucet: (Adjustable Pliers, Phillips Screwdriver and Basin Wrench)
Your owner’s manual may help you to remove a Delta kitchen faucet.
You will be required to turn off the water at the shut-off valves. Then unscrew the supply hoses using a pair of adjustable pliers. After this, loosen the retaining fasteners that are located under the sink. It is an added advantage if the faucet you have contains screw-on retaining plates. This will make your work easier. Unscrew the retaining screw with a Phillips screwdriver. After the plates are off, lift the faucet off the sink.
If the type of Delta faucet you have is held by brass or steel retaining nuts and those nuts are rusted, your job will be a lot harder to do. This is exactly where a basin wrench is most applicable. A basin wrench is designed in such a way that it has a long handle that fits up into the tight space that is behind the sink. It is still possible to turn it from under the sink though. You can use spray lubricant to help in loosening the rust. Once the nuts are out, you can lift off the Delta faucet from its original position.
How to Remove Quick-Connect Fittings
If the Delta faucet you own contains a sprayer or is a widespread faucet, disconnect the hoses that are joined with the spout to the Delta faucet handles or the sprayer. These usually contain quick-connect fittings that are supposed to disconnect without having to use any tools.
There is a white plastic tip with two tabs at the end of the fitting. Use your fingers to squeeze them together and then pull the fitting apart. You will eventually need a pair of adjustable pliers squeezing the tabs in practice. However, once you depress them enough, the fitting should come apart at this point when you pull it.