Replacing a shower head is usually a quick job that needs only a few basic tools. Unscrew the old head from the shower arm, clean the threads, wrap them with sealing tape and thread the new head on by hand. Most people finish in well under half an hour.
What to Gather Before You Begin
- An adjustable wrench or large pliers
- A soft cloth to protect the finish of the shower arm
- Thread sealing tape, often sold as plumber’s tape
- The new shower head, with any washer it comes with
- A small brush and an old towel
Read the maker’s instructions that come with the new head. Some include their own rubber washer, filter screen or special fitting, and the steps can differ slightly from the general method below.
The Steps, One at a Time
- Lay the towel in the tub so a dropped part will not chip the surface or vanish down the drain.
- Wrap the cloth around the connection where the head meets the arm. This keeps the wrench from marking the metal.
- Hold the arm steady with one hand so it does not twist inside the wall, then turn the old head counterclockwise with the wrench. Once it loosens, finish by hand.
- Remove the old washer if it stayed behind, and brush mineral crust from the arm threads.
- Wrap sealing tape around the threads in the same direction the head will turn on, usually two or three times.
- Thread the new head on by hand until snug. Use the wrench only for a small extra turn, since overtightening can crack plastic fittings.
- Turn on the water, let it run for a minute and look closely at the joint for drips.
Common Problems and Simple Fixes
| Problem | Likely cause | What to try |
|---|---|---|
| Drip at the joint | Missing washer or thin tape | Remove the head, add tape, check the washer sits flat |
| Weak flow | Mineral buildup or flow limiter | Clean the arm opening and follow the maker’s guide |
| Arm turns in the wall | Not held while loosening | Stop and call a qualified plumber |
If the arm itself moves, leaks inside the wall or looks corroded, leave it alone. Work on pipes behind the wall, or anything touching the main water supply, belongs with a qualified professional.
FAQ
Do I need a plumber to change a shower head?
Usually not, because the job only involves the fitting at the end of the arm. Call a qualified plumber if the arm is loose, damaged or leaking from the wall.
Why does the new head still drip at the joint?
The most common reasons are too little sealing tape, a washer that is crooked or missing, or threads that were not cleaned. Take it apart, fix one thing at a time and try again.
The Short Version
Protect the finish, hold the arm still, remove the old head, tape the threads and hand-tighten the new one. Follow the maker’s instructions and your local rules, and bring in a qualified professional for anything inside the wall.