Skip to main content

Turn On Water and Check for Leaks — Check for Leaks and Restore Water Flow

Beginner45 mins

Part of project

Delta Shower Handle Replacement: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide · Step 4 of 4

Helpful?

In this video

Slowly turn the cold water valve back on by turning it counter-clockwise. Listen for the water filling the filter; you may hear gurgling as air is purged. Once the water is on, carefully inspect all three connection points for any signs of leaks or drips. If you see any water, turn the supply off and tighten the leaking connection slightly before turning the water back on.

Goal: Restore water and verify connections

  • It is critical to check for leaks to prevent water damage.
42.6K views922 minutes
Lowe's Home Improvement

1.3M subscribers

View Channel

FAQs

Do I need the specific Milwaukee screwdriver mentioned, or will any flathead and Phillips head screwdriver work for this project?

While the Milwaukee screwdriver is a good quality tool, any standard flathead and Phillips head screwdriver of the appropriate size will work. Ensure the screwdriver tip matches the screw head size to prevent stripping the screws during removal or installation, which is a common issue.

What should I do if I can't shut off the water supply to just the shower, or if water continues to drip after shutting it off?

If you can't isolate the shower's water supply, you'll need to turn off the main water supply to your entire house, usually found near the water meter or main shut-off valve. If water still drips after turning off the supply, double-check that the valve is fully closed. For persistent drips, you might need to address the shut-off valve itself or consult a plumber before proceeding.

My old Delta handle's screw cover is stuck or won't come off easily. How can I remove it without causing damage?

Often, old screw covers can be stiff due to mineral buildup. Try gently prying around the edges with a thin, flat tool like a plastic putty knife or the edge of a flathead screwdriver wrapped in painter's tape to avoid scratching. If it's still stuck, a small amount of penetrating lubricant applied carefully around the edge might help loosen it, but wipe away any excess immediately.

Is 45 minutes a realistic time estimate for a complete beginner, or should I budget more time for this Delta handle replacement?

The 45-minute estimate is generally realistic for someone with basic DIY skills and the right tools on hand. However, as a complete beginner, it's wise to budget an hour or two. This allows for potential issues like stuck screws, locating your main water shut-off, or needing extra time to review instructions carefully.

Transcript
Hide

Now that it's hooked up, go ahead and turn the cold water back on. As you turn the water on, you may hear some gurgling as air bubbles are pushed out through the filter. Go to the fridge and let the water run for about two to three minutes. At first you may see some cloudiness in the water as totally normal and will flush out after a minute or two. Once the water's back on, take a look at your connections and verify that there are no minor leaks. If you see any water coming out, just give them a little tightening with this wrench.

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.