Learning how to replace a shower head is one of the easiest plumbing upgrades you can make — it takes about 15 minutes, costs nothing in labor, and can genuinely improve your daily shower experience. No plumbing experience needed.

What You’ll Need

An adjustable wrench or pliers, plumber’s tape (also called Teflon tape), a new shower head, and a cloth to protect the finish from the wrench.

Step 1 — Remove the Old Shower Head

Wrap a cloth around the shower arm (the pipe coming out of the wall) to protect it, then grip the base of the old shower head with your wrench and turn counterclockwise. It should unscrew after a few turns. If it’s stuck from mineral buildup, apply some penetrating oil and wait 10 minutes before trying again.

Step 2 — Clean the Threads

Once the old head is off, clean any old tape or mineral deposits off the threads of the shower arm using a stiff brush or old toothbrush.

Step 3 — Apply Plumber’s Tape

Wrap plumber’s tape clockwise around the threads of the shower arm two or three times. This creates a watertight seal and makes the connection easier to remove in the future.

Step 4 — Install the New Shower Head

Hand tighten the new shower head onto the arm first, then give it one or two additional turns with the wrench — don’t overtighten or you risk cracking the fitting.

Step 5 — Test for Leaks

Turn the water on and check the connection point for drips. If it leaks, turn the water off and tighten slightly more. A small drip usually stops with just a quarter turn.

Choosing a Shower Head

Rain shower heads give wide coverage, handheld heads are great for rinsing and for bathing kids or pets, and high-pressure heads work well for low water pressure situations. Most standard shower heads fit the same universal thread size so any replacement will fit your existing arm.

Just moved into a new home? Check out our guide on what to do when you move into a new house.

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