Replacing a Showerhead

Replacing a showerhead is not hard to do as long as you follow a few simple guidelines.

To replace a showerhead:

1. Unscrew the old showerhead in a counterclockwise direction using pliers or a strap wrench.
2. Clean the threads on the shower stem pipe.
3. Wrap the threads on the pipe with Teflon plumber’s tape in a clockwise direction (two rotations or more).
4. Screw the new showerhead on the pipe threads in a clockwise direction until hand tight.
5. Tighten the showerhead further using a strap wrench or pliers padded with a rag or piece of flat rubber to prevent marring. Don’t damage the showerhead or pipe by over tightening.
6. Turn on the showerhead and check the pipe threads for leaks.

Watch this video to find out more.

Further Information

• How to Install a Showerhead (video)
• Showerhead Support (video)
• Low-Flow Water Saving Showerheads (article)
• Saving Water with Low-Flow Showerheads (video)

VIDEO TRANSCRIPT

Removing your old showerhead is as simple as unscrewing it from the pipe stem it’s mounted on. Before you install the new one, clean the threads on the stem and wrap them with Teflon tape, wrapping in a clockwise direction, so the tape stays put when you screw on the new showerhead. You’ll want the new fixture tight to avoid leaks, but you don’t want mar it with tools, so wrap it with a rag first, to protect the finish from the jaws of your pliers.