By using a few basic tools and following a few simple steps, you can enjoy an entirely new showering experience and possibly save water in the process. The following is an easy-to-follow guide on how to replace a shower head. There may be a number of reasons why you want to replace your shower head. It could be because your current shower head is dated and you would like a newer one. It may be that you’ve become more water conscious and choose to replace it with a low flow shower head. Regardless of the reason behind the replacement, replacing a shower head is a fairly simple job and most people are able to do this and improve the appearance of their shower and bathroom.
- Before you proceed with replacing your shower head, turn off water at the main stopcock, then turn on the tap in the shower to drain the pipes.
- Once you have done this, you may proceed to do the following: Remove the old shower head, turning it anti-clockwise
- Use an adjustable wrench or locking pliers
- Hold the shower arm steady (the pipe that connects to the shower head)
- Loosen the nut behind the shower head
- Turn the nut with your fingers, remove it and remove the shower head
- Clean the threads of the shower arm
- Use a wire brush to clean out the threads
- Ensure that all debris is removed from the threads
- Wrap plumber’s tape around the threads in a clockwise direction
- This is to guarantee a tight fit on the pipes and prevent leaks
- Install the new shower head
- Hold the shower arm steady
- Apply the new shower head to the shower arm
- Screw on the shower head clockwise
- Apply a cloth to the shower head in order to protect it from scratches from the wrench
- Tighten the shower head with the wrench
- Be careful of over tightening the shower head
- Turn the shower on
- This is done to test your new shower head, ensuring there are no leaks
Should you find a leak, remove the shower head, re-tape the threads of the shower arm and re-install the new shower head. Contact a professional plumber if you detect leaks afterward The simple steps above clearly explain how to change a shower head. Not all plumbing issues are however this simple to deal with. For wide-ranging and more complex plumbing solutions, contact Plumbers on Call. We provide you with a wealth of knowledge and experience, with solutions for: Emergency Plumbing Problems Leak Detection and Pipe Location Leaking Taps, Toilets, Showers and Geysers Leaking and Burst Pipes Blocked Drains and Sewers Geyser, Boiler and Solar Repairs Pump Repairs & Replacements New Installations