Replacing a Shower Head
If you are ready to replace a broken shower head or just ready to upgrade to a new one with more features like massage or rain settings, here are some relatively easy steps to getting the job done.
Purchasing a New Shower Head
First, purchase the new shower head and familiarize yourself with the instructions that come with it. It is a good idea to consider getting a low flow shower head to cut down on your water bills and to not waste water. Since your shower water has to be heated, you will be saving energy and the cost of the fuel involved in making hot water.
Removing the Existing Shower Head
Start by turning off the water to the existing shower head at the main water shut off valve. If you don't want to open up the wall behind the shower you can just shut it off at the faucet itself. Check under the existing shower head for any small screws holding it on. If you find any use a screw driver to remove them. Now detach the existing shower head by gripping its connection with channel pliers or a crescent wrench and rotating it counter clockwise until it comes free from the water connector. Hold the water supply line while you are doing this to avoid accidentally damaging it in the process.
Have a towel ready as there may be some residual water at the head. It is also a good idea to wear eye protection because some debris may come down as well. Carefully clean any debris from the water pipe.
Attaching the New Shower Head
Wrap the threaded fitting of the water pipe with plumber's tape to create a water tight seal. Attach the new shower head to the water pipe by rotating the fitting in a clockwise direction until it is tightly connected. Make any hose or nozzle connections according to the manufacturer's specifications.
Turn on the water supply and test your installation.
