Most shower heads simply screw onto the threaded end of the shower pipe.
The standard type is a twin thermostatic valve. This has one handle for controlling temperature. It has a second handle for turning the water flow on and off. This is used to control a single shower.
A shower head holder does exactly what it says on the tin…it holds your shower head in place, ready for use. However, there are different types of shower holder which can be used for different purposes. The most common shower head holder is usually attached to what is known as a shower riser rail or shower slider rail.
Over time, your shower head may acquire a buildup of rust or minerals, which can cause the shower head to become stuck. Removing a shower head with rust or mineral build-up is often challenging. Try to loosen the shower head with a variety of tools, such as wrenches, pliers, mallets, and center punches.
Most shower heads simply screw onto the threaded end of the shower pipe. Removing the shower head is really as easy as unscrewing this connection!
Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and unscrew the old shower head. Clean off any rust or mineral deposits, old tape or leftover sealant on the shower arm threads.
For fixed shower heads, it's usually quite simple! Just screw it on over the teflon thread sealing tape, and make sure the connection is snug. That's it! For handheld shower heads, screw the handheld shower mount onto the shower arm over the new layer of tape.
Locate the screw that holds the bracket in place. This is often found on the underside or the side of the holder. Wrap a soft cloth around the holder to protect its finish. Use an adjustable wrench or an Allen key to gently tighten the screw.
Shower head holders come in various shapes, sizes and designs. For a stress-free option, we show how to fit a universal shower head holder onto a slide rail. With styles and designs of shower head holders (also known as handset holders or clamp brackets) varying greatly, sometimes it can be difficult to replace them.
A shower diverter is a small pin or switch in your bathroom that connects your bathtub faucet to your shower head.
Shower Shut Off Valve
Here's how to turn off the water to your shower: Look for the shut off valve usually located in the wall behind the shower or in the access panel. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply to the shower.
A valve is a device that controls, regulates or directs the flow of water by opening or closing passages. A bar valve is one such device that is bar shaped and controls the temperature, flow or pressure of your shower, making your shower experience especially enjoyable.
If the stuck shower head still doesn't budge, try wrapping a gallon bag full of vinegar around it. The acidity of the vinegar will remove rust and mineral buildup that prevents the shower head from loosening.
Selecting a New Shower Head
If you've selected a rain shower head, see How to Install a Rain Shower Head. Most shower head connections are now universal. However, always check the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure the head you're considering will fit your plumbing and for any tools needed for installation.
Use a wrench to loosen the nut that connects the shower head to your feed pipe. Once loosened, you can use your hands to unscrew the shower head completely. Check the threaded interior portion of the shower head and remove any debris with your finger. You can also flush this area with water.
Teflon Tape: Also known as plumber's tape, Teflon tape ensures a watertight seal between the shower arm and the new shower head. A few wraps around the threading will do the trick.
Before replacing the old shower head turn off the valves to stop the water supply to the shower head. You can usually do this by locating the shutoff valve on the wall behind the shower. It's a good idea to turn off the main water supply to your home as well, just to be safe.
Faucets and Showerheads
Kitchen and bathroom fixtures have varying lifespans depending on their quality and usage: Kitchen faucets: 15-20 years. Bathroom faucets: 15-20 years. Showerheads: 10-15 years.