How to Replace a Shower Head

Step 1: Make sure replacing the shower head is the right fix

1. Look at the connection where the shower head meets the shower arm.
2. Replace the shower head if it is cracked, heavily clogged, leaking at the head body, or you want a different spray pattern.
3. If the leak is only at the threaded connection, a new shower head can still help, but the real fix may be cleaning the threads and resealing them.
4. Gently hold the shower arm and check that it feels solid where it comes out of the wall.

If it works: You have confirmed the shower head or its threaded connection is the likely problem, and the shower arm feels secure.

If it doesn’t: If the shower arm is loose, the wall is soft, or water seems to be leaking behind the wall, stop here and address that problem before replacing the shower head.

Step 2: Prep the area and remove the old shower head

1. Turn the shower off and let any remaining water drain out.
2. Wrap a cloth around the old shower head nut or flat sides to protect the finish.
3. Hold the shower arm steady with one hand so you do not twist it in the wall.
4. Use an adjustable wrench or pliers over the cloth to turn the old shower head counterclockwise until it comes off.
5. Set the old shower head aside and wipe the end of the shower arm clean.

Step 3: Clean and inspect the shower arm threads

1. Peel off any old thread seal tape from the shower arm threads.
2. Use a toothbrush or small nylon brush to remove mineral buildup, debris, and leftover tape.
3. Wipe the threads with a rag so they are clean and easy to inspect.
4. Check that the threads are not flattened, split, or badly corroded.

Step 4: Apply fresh tape and install the new shower head

1. Wrap PTFE thread seal tape clockwise around the shower arm threads so it stays in place as the new shower head goes on.
2. Use a few neat wraps and keep tape off the opening so it does not bunch up inside the connection.
3. Thread the new shower head on by hand first to avoid cross-threading.
4. Tighten it until snug. If needed, use a cloth and wrench for a small final turn, but do not over-tighten.
5. Adjust the shower head so it points where you want it.

Step 5: Run the shower and check for leaks

1. Turn the shower on slowly and watch the threaded connection for drips.
2. Let the water run through each spray setting if your new shower head has more than one.
3. If you see a small drip at the threads, turn the shower off, remove the shower head, and reapply tape before reinstalling.
4. Wipe the connection dry and check again after another short test run.

If it doesn’t: If it still drips after resealing, inspect the threads again and make sure the new shower head is compatible with the shower arm connection.

Step 6: Confirm the repair holds in real use

1. Take a normal shower or run the water for several minutes at your usual temperature and pressure.
2. Check that the spray pattern is even and the head stays aimed where you set it.
3. After the shower is off, look again for slow drips at the threaded connection.
4. Wipe the area dry and recheck in a little while to make sure no seepage returns.

If it works: The new shower head works normally, the connection stays dry, and the repair held under real use.

If it doesn’t: If pressure is still poor or the spray is uneven, the issue may be mineral buildup farther upstream, a flow restriction, or a separate plumbing problem.