How to Replace a Shower Head: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 02/02/2025

A leaky, sputtering shower head can be incredibly frustrating, turning a relaxing shower into a tedious chore. Low water pressure and a lackluster spray pattern are common complaints, often easily solved with a simple upgrade. A new shower head can dramatically improve your shower experience, offering a more invigorating spray, improved water conservation features, and a stylish update to your bathroom. Replacing a shower head is a surprisingly straightforward DIY project, requiring minimal tools and expertise, making it a perfect weekend task for even the most novice homeowner.

This guide will walk you through the entire process, from gathering your tools to enjoying your revitalized shower. Whether you're looking to increase water pressure, save water, or simply change the style of your shower, we'll provide a clear, step-by-step approach to ensure a successful and hassle-free shower head replacement. Let's get started!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • cloth
  • wrench (optional)
  • thread seal tape
  • new shower head
Safety Guidelines
  • Always turn off the water supply to the shower before beginning. This prevents flooding and injury.
  • Use plumber's tape on the threads of the new shower head to ensure a watertight seal and prevent leaks.
  • If you encounter significant resistance when removing the old shower head, stop and consult a plumber. Forcing it could damage the plumbing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare for Replacement

    • Turn off the water supply.
    Turn off the water supply.
    Prepare for Replacement

  2. Remove Old Shower Head

    • Use a cloth to grip the old shower head and turn it counterclockwise to remove it.
    • If necessary, remove the shower arm using the same method.
    If necessary, remove the shower arm using the same method.If necessary, remove the shower arm using the same method.
    Remove Old Shower Head

  3. Prepare New Shower Head

    • Wrap thread seal tape (6-7 wraps) clockwise around the shower arm threads to prevent leaks.
    • If installing a new cover plate, attach it before the shower head.
    If installing a new cover plate, attach it before the shower head.If installing a new cover plate, attach it before the shower head.
    Prepare New Shower Head

  4. Install New Shower Head

    • Install the new shower head by attaching it to the shower arm and turning it clockwise until hand-tight. Use a wrench if needed, but avoid overtightening.
    Install the new shower head by attaching it to the shower arm and turning it clockwise until hand-tight. Use a wrench if needed, but avoid overtightening.
    Install New Shower Head

  5. Final Checks

    • Turn the water supply back on.
    • Check for leaks and tighten if necessary. Add more thread seal tape if needed.
    Check for leaks and tighten if necessary. Add more thread seal tape if needed.
    Final Checks

Read more: Fixing a Leaky Toilet Tank: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • A little elbow grease might be needed to remove a stubborn shower head.
  • Choose a new shower head compatible with your existing shower fittings.
  • Avoid overtightening the shower head to prevent damage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Over-tightening the new shower head

Reason: Applying too much force can strip the threads or damage the shower arm.
Solution: Tighten the new shower head by hand until snug; only use pliers if absolutely necessary and with extreme caution.

2. Ignoring Teflon tape

Reason: Improper sealing can lead to leaks and water damage.
Solution: Wrap 2-3 wraps of Teflon tape clockwise around the shower arm threads before attaching the new shower head.

3. Not turning off the water supply

Reason: This can result in a sudden and unexpected burst of water.
Solution: Always turn off the water supply valves before beginning any shower head replacement.

FAQs

What tools do I need to replace a shower head?
You'll typically need a wrench (adjustable pliers often work), plumber's tape (Teflon tape), and possibly a bucket to catch any remaining water in the pipe.
My shower head won't unscrew. What should I do?
Try soaking the connection with penetrating oil for about 15-20 minutes. Then, use a wrench or pliers, gripping firmly but carefully to avoid damaging the shower arm. If it's still stuck, you may need to consult a plumber.
What size shower head should I buy?
Standard shower heads are typically 1/2 inch in diameter. Check the size of your existing shower head or shower arm before purchasing a replacement to ensure compatibility.