Whether you are replacing an old and damaged showerhead, or simply want to install a new, low-flow showerhead to save water, replacing a showerhead is a fairly simple process that only takes a few minutes with the right tools and know how.
Before You Begin
You'll need a pair of pliers, an adjustable wrench, electrical or plumbers tape, and a replacement showerhead, all of which can be found at most hardware stores. Turn off the water to the shower to prevent leaks from occurring while you're working. You may also want to place a blanket in the tub to protect the porcelain from an accidentally dropped tool or part.
Removing the Old Showerhead
Try to turn the old showerhead counterclockwise by hand. If it has not rusted or become damaged, it should come off fairly easily.
However, if the showerhead is old or extremely worn, it may be difficult to remove. If this is the case, you'll have to use the pliers and wrench to remove it.
Place the electrical tape around the jaws of the pliers to prevent them from damaging the shower arm, and grip the arm tightly with the pliers.
Adjust the wrench so that it fits properly around the showerhead, and turn it counter clockwise to remove the old showerhead. You may have to use a fair bit of force before the head comes loose from the arm.
Clean off any tape or rust that may have developed underneath the showerhead.
Installing the New Showerhead
Wrap the plumber's tape around the screw threads on the shower arm, and press the tape down so that the threads show through. This makes it easier to remove the showerhead in the future, for replacement or cleaning.
Screw on the new showerhead by hand, turning clockwise until it is too tight to continue turning.
Turn on the water to see if there are any leaks around the shower head. If there are, you'll want to use the pliers and adjustable wrench to tighten the new showerhead.
Again, apply tape to the pliers, and hold the shower arm.
Apply tape to the wrench as well (you don't want to scratch the new showerhead), and adjust the wrench so that it fits properly around the showerhead. Turn clockwise until sufficiently tight.
Turn on the water again and check for any leaks. If there are still leaks, you may need to apply more tape to the threads under the showerhead. Tighten the showerhead again, and if that fails, remove the showerhead and apply more tape.
For further assistance, contact a local plumber, such as Plumbing Now bathroom plumbing.
Share6 October 2015
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