How to Remove a Showerhead

If you need to replace or clean your showerhead, then your first step is to remove it. In most cases, it is not difficult to do. In fact, some will even remove by hand. However, if the showerhead has been there a long time, rust and minerals may have built up. In these cases, removal can be difficult. This article will cover how to remove even the most stubborn showerhead.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Duct or masking tape Adjustable end (Crescent) wrench or vice grips Vinegar or lime remover (CLR)* Rust remover (WD-40)* Cloth *Optional

1. Check the shower arm (behind the shower head) for any lime or hard water deposits and signs of rust.

2. If lime or hard water deposits are visible, apply vinegar or a lime remover to the area and allow to sit for several minutes. Wipe the shower arm off before moving to the next step. You may want to soak the area in vinegar or lime remover by attaching a bag filled with the liquid to the shower head with a rubber band.

3. If signs of rust are visible, apply WD-40 or similar rust remover to the area and allow to sit for several minutes. Wipe the shower arm off before moving to the next step.

4. Check underneath the showerhead and remove any small screws, if found.

5. Cover the jaws of your wrench or vice grips with duct tape or masking tape. This will help protect your shower head from scratches.

6. While gripping the shower arm, try unscrewing the shower head by hand first. If it is too tight, use your wrench or vice grips to slowly unscrew the shower head.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid jerking the shower head because you may break the shower arm.

Resources

• Removing a Shower Head Tips
• How to Replace a Shower Head
• How To Remove a Stuck Shower Head