Replacing your shower head is as simple as one, two, three.
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Time A few minutes
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$20-50
Introduction
If you’re looking to replace your shower head, don’t call a plumber. It’s easy to DIY.
Tools Required
- Slip joint pliers
Materials Required
- New shower head
- Teflon plumber's tape
Watch How to Change a Shower Head in 3 Easy Steps
Project step-by-step (3)
Step 1
Remove the Old Shower Head
- Using a pair of plumbing pliers, remove your old shower head by turning counterclockwise (to the left) on the coupling that connects the showerhead to the shower arm. (See photo.)
- Pro tip: Prevent scratching your new shower head by covering the jaws of your pliers with tape.
By the way, here’s how to clean a shower head without removing it.
Step 2
Apply Plumber’s Tape
- Wrap the threads of the shower arm with a few rotations of plumber’s tape. (See photo.)
- Note: Some shower heads don’t require plumber’s tape. Check with the manufacturer specifications.
Step 3
Install the New Shower head
- Fit the female coupling of the new shower head onto the threads of the shower arm, then hand-tighten, turning it clockwise (to the right).
- Tighten the shower head coupling another quarter-turn using a pair of plumbing pliers. (See photo.)
- Turn on the shower and check for leaks.
