Replace a Showerhead

SKILL LEVEL 1

Showerheads have really come into their own, with styles that make showering a spa experience. You can find models that soak, massage, spray, steam and drench. With this simple project, you'll find how easy it is to add luxury to your shower — usually in less than an hour.

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1 Skill level
1 out of 5
5 Steps
6 Materials

Step 1 Check the fitting

Inspect the fitting where the showerhead meets the wall. If it's loose or damaged, call a plumber to fix the pipes inside the wall before continuing.
Step 2 Remove the existing showerhead

Place a non-skid mat in the shower or tub to protect the surface. If the showerhead is a handheld model with a hose, unscrew the hose. Tighten the wrench around the nut at the base of the showerhead and turn the wrench counterclockwise to unscrew the showerhead.
Step 3 Clean and wrap the threads

Clean the threads with steel wool and then dry them thoroughly.
Tightly wind Teflon tape 4 to 6 times around the threads clockwise, to prevent leaks between the showerhead and water pipe.
Step 4 Attach the new showerhead

Screw on the new showerhead by hand and then use the wrench to tighten it. Don’t use the shower arm for leverage and don’t turn showerhead base counterclockwise, which breaks the Teflon seal.
Step 5 Test the connection

Turn on water to showerhead. If the connection leaks, remove the showerhead, replace the Teflon tape and reattach the showerhead.