When you have a complex plumbing project or major plumbing repair, it makes sense for you to call a professional plumber. But not every plumbing project requires a professional. There are some simple projects you can do, such as replacing a shower head. That is the case whether your showerhead is fixed, handheld or both. It shouldn’t take much more than 30 minutes, and you can get a new showerhead for as little as $25. Even nicer ones can be bought for less than $100.
First you need the right tools. Make sure you have a wrench or pair of slip-joint pliers, Teflon tape, and either rust/lime remover or mineral spirits. Here is what you do:
- Remove the old head with either the adjustable wrench or pliers. Be careful to only loosen the shower head, not the shower arm that attaches inside the wall.
- Using the rust/lime remover or mineral spirits to remove rust, calcification, and other debris from the shower arm.
- Dry the arm thoroughly, taking special care around the threads.
- Apply the Teflon tape to the threads and press down tightly.
- Screw the new shower head in.
- Finish tightening with either the wrench or pliers.
- Turn on the water and make sure there are no leaks.
- If there are leaks, either tighten further or reapply the Teflon tape. If the leak does not stop, you may have a bad shower head.
- If everything works, enjoy the new shower head.
