Contents
Introduction
Most people without knowledge on shower heads usually pay a plumber to do the installation for them. However, this is completely unnecessary and a waste of cash. One can do the installation of all types of showerheads at home with ease. However, one needs to learn a few things before attempting the process. Otherwise, they might ruin the finish for instance. Generally, the process is easy and requires the use of only a few tools.
Requirements
The first requirement is that one has the new showerhead with them. The next requirement is the plumbers tape. This is usually in the form of a white roll that can be sourced easily from most stores. The next requirement is a wrench. Without this, the entire operation might take longer than necessary.
Replacing the Showerhead
Firstly, one needs to understand that just because they are using a wrench; it does not mean they have to use all of their strength. The wrench is a type of lever, and it is designed to make the entire process much easier. Using too much torque could damage the finishing in the bathroom. In addition, one could dislocate the piping embedded in the wall causing unsightly scars on the bathroom walls. Besides that, one might accidentally swing too fast and ruin the expensive and stylish finishing in the bathroom.
One way of ensuring that one does not ruin the fine finish is to cover the pipes with a cloth. This will provide a tight grip, thus reducing the use of excessive force, which ideally could bend the pipes and cause leaks in the walls. During the process, it is important that the drain is covered. This will keep certain essential parts from falling in and creating further complications. This can be done easily using a piece of cloth. Besides that, one needs to cover the floor or the bathtub with a cardboard or a blanket. A fall of the equipment could damage the floor or the bathtub. A wrench is quite heavy and it is feasible that it could leave a huge dent.
The person doing the installation should also ensure they are wearing some protective clothing. In addition, they should wear goggles to protect their eyes. This is because the falling pieces could puncture an eye. In addition, the shower head might have some dirt on it mixed in with water and scum. This could damage any good clothes that one is wearing.
Read Also: How to Clean a Shower Head?
Removing the Old Shower head
The first step in removing the old shower head is to wrap a cloth around the shower arm and grip it securely. This will ensure it does not jiggle around and probably damage plumbing embedded in the walls. The other arm should be used to turn the old shower head counterclockwise. The force should be applied incrementally until one feels the shower head begin to give in. Some shower heads are fixed on loosely and they can be removed by hand.
Fixing the New Shower Head
Before fixing the new shower head on, one needs to wipe the shower arm clean. This is to ensure that the plumber’s tape holds on perfectly. In addition, one may use a brush to scrub away any scum on the thread. This will ensure the new shower head holds on firmly. After removing dirt and grime from the threads, one needs to apply the plumber’s tape. The tape should be applied to only about two to three turns from the end of the pipe. This is done for aesthetic purposes to ensure it does not stick out. After that, press it in with the fingers to ensure it hugs the threads tightly. This will ensure it does not shift position when screwing on the new shower head.
After that screw on the new shower head using one arm only, the other arm should tightly grip the shower arm. When the shower head is in place, one should use the wrench to secure it tightly. After that, one should turn on the water. If one notices any leaks, it will be necessary to turn the shower head clockwise until the leak stops.
Conclusion
When changing a shower head, one needs to take all the safety precautions recommended. In addition, it is important to wear gloves during the entire operation. This will prevent one from injuring their hands as they use the heavy equipment.