How to Replace Shower Head & Control

As years go by, plumbing fixtures---including showerheads---naturally wear out. Showerheads can become clogged, bent or rusted. Instead of panicking and calling professional plumbers, do the job yourself.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• New showerhead
• Adjustable wrench
• Plumber's tape
• Dry cloth/rag
• Painter's tape

Remove the existing shower head

1. Locate the shut-off water valve for your bathroom. The shut-off valve is normally found in an adjoining closet near the tub. If it is not there then find the main water valve for your home and turn it off.

2. Use the adjustable wrench to unscrew the collar of the old showerhead from the stem. Hold the stem or arm of the shower unit while you unscrew the head.

3. After the showerhead has been removed, wrap plumber's tape around the end of the arm, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in length. This will be where the new collar of the showerhead will slip over. Wipe down the threaded area of the arm with a dry cloth or rag to remove debris, rust or moisture.

4. Wrap the painter's tape around the teeth of the wrench. A few wraps will ensure you do not scratch the finish of the new showerhead once you start the installation.

5. Tighten the collar of the new showerhead with the adjustable wrench. Hold the arm or stem of the shower unit while securing the new showerhead. Wipe the unit with the cloth and then turn on your water valve. You have just installed your new showerhead and saved yourself a bundle of money.

Tips & Warnings

• Walk into any home repair store and you'll find dozens of different showerheads. Pick one that suits your personal needs. Remember the size of your shower area; you do not want to pick out a showerhead that's too large or too small.
• When removing the old collar and showerhead from the shower arm, make sure the arm does not turn. If you push too hard on the arm while trying to remove the head, it could break off or bend. If this happens, you'll have to replace the entire unit rather than just the showerhead.

References

• Better Home and Garden Household Hints and Tips