How to Replace a Shower Head

Every shower head sold in the United States screws onto the same 1/2 inch threaded shower arm, so any head fits any arm regardless of brand. Replacing one takes about 10 minutes and does not require shutting off the water.

Before you start. No need to shut off the water for this one; the valve stays closed while you work on the head, arm, or spout. You will need a towel to protect the finish, slip-joint pliers or an adjustable wrench, and a roll of plumber’s tape (thin white thread tape, about $2). If anything is corroded and will not loosen with moderate force, stop and see when to call a plumber. New to this? Start here explains the parts and tools in plain language.

Steps

1. Wrap a cloth around the shower arm and hold it steady. Turn the old head’s nut counterclockwise. Use pliers over the cloth if it is stuck.
2. Clean the old tape or sealant off the arm threads with a cloth or a fingernail.
3. Wrap new plumber’s tape around the arm threads two or three times, clockwise as you look at the end of the arm, so it tightens rather than unwinds when the head goes on. Press it into the threads.
4. Check that the new head’s nut has its rubber washer in place, then thread it on by hand until snug. Hand tight is enough for most heads. If the head has a flat on the nut, a quarter turn with a wrench over a cloth is the maximum.
5. Turn the shower on and check the joint. A drip at the joint means the washer is missing or the tape is loose; take it off and redo the tape.

Choosing a head

Federal law limits every head to 2.5 gallons per minute, and most sold now are 1.75 to 2.0. In a house with ordinary pressure the difference in feel between brands has more to do with the spray pattern than the flow number. Heads with soft rubber nozzles are easier to keep clean in hard water. A basic head is about $20 to $40; name brand heads run $60 to $120.

• Shower heads at Home Depot
• Delta shower heads
• Moen shower heads

Shower heads and tub spoutsFind your brandStart hereWhen to call a plumber

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