Fixing a Broken Delta Shower Head Button: The Complete DIY Guide
Over my 10 years as a home renovation contractor, I‘ve repaired countless Delta shower heads for frustrated homeowners. But with the right tools and knowledge, it‘s an straightforward fix anyone can do themselves. In this detailed guide, I‘ll walk you step-by-step through identifying your Delta shower head issue, ordering the correct replacement parts, properly installing the new button, and troubleshooting any other problems to restore full water pressure and enjoyment.
Table of Contents
- Is Your Delta Shower Head Push/Pull or Toggle Button?
- Buying the Correct Replacement Parts
- Shutting Off Water Supply – Don‘t Skip This Step!
- Removing the Old Button from the Delta
- Deep Cleaning Your Shower Head
- Installing the New Button Properly
- Restoring Water Supply and Testing
- Fixing Low Pressure, Leaks, and Other Issues
- Regular Maintenance Prevents Problems
- FAQs about Delta Showers and Valves
- Conclusion and Final Tips
Is Your Delta Shower Head Push/Pull or Toggle Button?
Delta shower heads come in two main button styles – push/pull and toggle:
Push/Pull Buttons
This style has a button you physically push in and pull out to control water flow. When you pull the button out, water flows, and pushing it in pauses the water.
The stem will have two prongs and you need to buy a replacement kit specifically for push/pull Delta buttons.
Toggle Buttons
This style has a button that toggles between two positions to start and stop water flow. You simply flip the button back and forth to turn the shower on and off.
The stem will have three prongs and requires a toggle button replacement kit.
Tip: If you can‘t tell by looking, try pushing and pulling the button. If it moves in and out, it‘s push/pull. If it only toggles, it‘s a toggle.
Getting the right replacement kit is crucial for proper installation, so always match it to your button style.
Buying the Correct Replacement Parts
You‘ll need a new OEM (original equipment manufacturer) button kit for your specific Delta shower head model. Each kit will include:
- New shower head button
- Any washers, gaskets, or o-rings
- Plastic and metal fasteners
I recommend:
- Visiting a home improvement store to find your exact replacement kit
- Checking the Delta website for parts lookup
- Searching online using your shower head model number
Avoid cheap generic kits that seem close enough – get the real Delta OEM part for reliable performance. Ask at the store counter if you need help matching the kit.
For example, if you have a Delta Lahara model with a push/pull button issue, search for the "Delta Lahara push/pull button kit."
Spending a few extra minutes ensures you get the correctly matching components.
Shutting Off Water Supply – Don‘t Skip This Step!
Before replacing the shower head button, you MUST turn off the water supply:
- Locate the shut-off valve for the shower/tub. It will look like this:
- Turn the valve clockwise as far as it will go until water stops flowing.
- Turn on the shower briefly to release pressure.
- Consider shutting off the main home water supply for extra precaution.
Skipping this step risks water leaks and damage. Trust me – it‘s worth the extra minute to avoid a huge headache!
Removing the Old Button from the Delta
With the water off, you can now safely remove the faulty Delta button:
- Use pliers or a wrench to loosen and unthread the collar nut holding the shower head onto the pipe. Be gentle to avoid cracking.
- Twist the shower head to detach it from the shower arm, then set it aside.
- Inspect the stem where the button is located. The button should pull or pry off with some wiggling.
- If needed, use a screwdriver to gently wedge the old button free. Just don‘t damage the stem!
Be sure to also remove any stuck washers, o-rings, or gaskets from the stem area as these will need to be replaced.
Deep Cleaning Your Shower Head
With the button removed, it‘s the perfect time to deep clean the Delta shower head:
- Soak the head in a bowl with equal parts hot water and distilled white vinegar for 15-30 minutes. This dissolves most mineral buildup.
- Use an old toothbrush, wire brush, or needle to gently clear clogged nozzle holes.
- Rinse thoroughly with hot water after soaking to wash away grime.
- Wipe down the stem, gaskets, and o-rings with a microfiber cloth.
Taking these steps avoids future flow problems and optimizes your new button‘s performance.
Installing the New Button Properly
Once the Delta shower head is prepped, it‘s time to install the new button:
- Place any provided o-rings or gaskets in the proper grooves on the stem. Consult the kit instructions.
- Insert the new Delta button into the stem holes and press firmly until it clicks and locks in place securely.
- Hand thread the shower head back onto the shower pipe. Tighten with pliers/wrench. Don‘t overtighten!
- Replace any trim pieces or covers that were removed.
Check that all connections are tight but not too tight. It‘s easy to crack the housing if you apply too much force. Take your time and double check your work.
Restoring Water Supply and Testing
The moment of truth has arrived! Time to turn the water back on:
- Turn the main water supply valve back on if you shut it off previously.
- Open the shower/tub shut off valve by turning it counter-clockwise.
- Let the shower run for a few minutes to clear any debris and check for leaks.
- Tighten any leaky connections further. Plumber‘s tape helps seal threads.
- Test the button! Push/pull or toggle it to verify smooth operation and proper water flow.
Don‘t see water come on after pressing the button? Give it some forceful pushes or toggles to make sure it‘s perfectly seated in the valve stem. Enjoy that satisfying rush of water when it works!
Fixing Low Pressure, Leaks, and Other Issues
If you have problems after the repair, here are some tips:
Low Water Pressure
- Soak nozzle in vinegar solution to clear blockages
- Replace old plumbing fixtures causing restriction
- Upgrade to a pressurizing shower head model
Sporadic Spray or Sputtering
- Disassemble to clean out mineral deposits clogging the system
- Adjust the internal limiters if present
- Replace seals/washers to prevent hissing air in water stream
Persistent Leaking
- Tighten all connections with wrench
- Reapply plumber‘s tape to threads
- Replace worn gaskets and o-rings
Corrosion Damage
Any visible corrosion on metal parts must be replaced. Don‘t risk ruptures or cracks.
If you can‘t resolve the problem, don‘t hesitate to call a pro! Shower valves can be tricky.
Regular Maintenance Prevents Problems
To maximize your Delta shower head‘s lifespan:
- Wipe down the shower head after each use to prevent mineral buildup, using a microfiber cloth or squeegee.
- Soak the shower head in a vinegar/water solution for 15-30 minutes once per month.
- Every 6 months, inspect and replace worn o-rings, gaskets, washers.
- Consider installing a water filtration system if you have severe hard water.
- Avoid hitting or knocking the shower head when showering. Drops can lead to fractures.
Staying on top of maintenance means you‘ll get 5+ years of reliable performance out of quality Delta shower heads.
FAQs about Delta Showers and Valves
Still have questions about Delta shower parts and repairs? Here are some common ones:
Why does my Delta shower valve keep failing?
Mineral deposits, incorrect parts, and corrosion damage valves over time. Have a plumber replace any deteriorated internal components.
How do I adjust a Delta shower diverter?
Locate the diverter behind the cover plate. Loosen the nut, rotate the diverter until aligned, and retighten the nut securely.
What are symptoms of a faulty Delta diverter valve?
Decreased water pressure, temperature fluctuations, unusual noises, and leaking indicate it needs replacement.
How do I fix a broken tub spout diverter on my Delta?
Remove the diverter, clean out any debris, replace damaged parts, lubricate components, and reassemble according to instructions.
Conclusion and Final Tips
Replacing a broken Delta shower head button is an easy, inexpensive DIY project with the right knowledge. To recap:
- Carefully identify your Delta shower head style and buy the matching OEM replacement kit
- Always turn off water supply before disassembling
- Clean shower head thoroughly before and after repair
- Follow instructions precisely when installing new button
- Seal threads properly and check connections for leaks
- Maintain your Delta regularly for optimal performance
Take it slow and don‘t force anything – with a bit of patience your shower will be flowing like new again. Let me know if you have any other home repair questions!