Change Shower Head to Handheld: A Simple DIY Project for Homeowners

Replacing your shower head with a handheld one is a simple DIY project that can make a big difference in your bathroom experience. This project can be completed in under an hour, depending on the type of shower head you choose.

A handheld shower head is typically easier to install than you might think, with most models requiring only a few basic tools like a wrench and a screwdriver. You can find handheld shower heads at most hardware stores or home improvement stores.

The cost of a handheld shower head can vary, but on average, you can expect to pay between $20 to $50 for a basic model. This is a relatively small investment compared to the benefits of having a handheld shower head.

Before you start the installation process, it's essential to shut off the water supply to the shower.

You'll need a wrench or an adjustable wrench to loosen the old shower head's nuts.

The old shower head is usually held in place by two or three nuts that need to be removed to access the pipe.

Make sure to save the old shower head's nuts and any other hardware, as you'll need them to secure the new handheld shower head.

It's a good idea to have a bucket or a container ready to catch any water that might spill out during the installation process.

The new handheld shower head will typically come with a long hose and a mounting bracket that needs to be attached to the shower arm.

You can attach a handheld shower head to your existing shower arm with a standard fitting that replaces the old rain showerhead with a flexible shower hose and handheld shower unit.

To prepare for installation, it's essential to read the manufacturer's instructions and pay attention to the installation diagram to ensure you've got all the parts you need.

Consider reading: Install Steam Shower

You'll typically start with the combined plumbing connector and shower head hanging bracket, which should already have a nut on the back that mates up to the pipe coming out of the wall.

If the nut doesn't include a rubber washer, wrap Teflon plumbing tape clockwise around the wall pipe threads 2 or 3 times to provide a watertight seal.

Firmly hold the wall pipe with one hand to keep it from turning while you thread the new head's connector onto the pipe with the other, rotating the nut clockwise until it feels tight.

Most modern shower heads don't require tools to install them, but you can use pliers or a pipe wrench to tighten the connection if the nut and pipe are difficult to grip and turn by hand.

You may need to apply Teflon tape to the male threads of the hose connections, so be sure to check the manufacturer's instructions for specific guidance.

Thread one end of the hose onto the outlet of the shower head connector and the other end onto the handheld shower head, firmly tightening both connections.

Double-check your specific product's installation diagram for additional steps, as some may require more complex installation procedures.

Confirm that everything is working properly and that there are no leaks by hanging the head on the bracket and making sure it stays put.

If this caught your attention, see: Bath and Shower in One

There are a few ways to install a handheld shower head, and the right method for you will depend on your specific situation.

You can choose from three main methods, but regardless of which one you pick, you'll need to perform some preparatory steps before starting the installation.

To add a handheld shower using a cross-tee diverter fitting, you'll need to install a cross-tee fitting on the shower arm, then reconnect the original rain shower head and attach the handheld shower head to the other outlet.

For more insights, see: How to Install a Handheld Shower Head

There are three main types of handheld shower head installations: standard fitting, cross-tee diverter fitting, and tub spout diverter valve.

A standard fitting attaches to the existing shower arm and replaces the old shower head with a flexible shower hose and handheld shower unit. This type is suitable for most shower installations.

A cross-tee diverter fitting is used when you want to add a handheld shower head while retaining the existing rainfall shower head. It involves temporarily removing the existing shower head and then installing a cross-tee fitting with two outlets.

A tub spout diverter valve is commonly used when you have no existing shower head. It requires replacing the old tub spout with a new one that has a diverter fitting. This type is ideal for bathrooms with no shower head.

Here are the three types of handheld shower head installations:

Each installation type has its own set of steps and requirements, so it's essential to choose the right one for your specific situation.

The size of the shower head is a crucial factor to consider when choosing an installation type. The diameter of the plumbing pipes that a shower head attaches to don't differ too much.

You should measure the available space you have to work with, including the distance between the base of the shower head and the ceiling. This varies greatly depending on how the shower was originally built.

If you're eyeing a handheld shower head, check if it will fit in the space you have available. Some handheld shower heads come in various lengths and may be obstructed by the shower ceiling.

On a similar theme: Should Shower Door Go to Ceiling

The installation process for a handheld shower head is relatively straightforward, but it does require some preparation and attention to detail.

First, read the manufacturer's instructions and installation diagram to ensure you have all the necessary parts and understand the order of assembly. Typically, you'll start with the combined plumbing connector and shower head hanging bracket, which may already have a fixed head attached.

To secure the bracket to the wall pipe, you'll need to thread the nut clockwise until it feels tight, taking care not to overtighten. If the nut doesn't include a rubber washer, wrap Teflon plumbing tape around the threads 2-3 times for a watertight seal.

Most modern shower heads don't require tools to install, but you can use pliers or a pipe wrench to tighten the connection if needed. Check the hose connections for rubber washers, built-in seals, or require Teflon tape to ensure a secure fit.

To install the handheld shower head, thread one end of the hose onto the outlet of the shower head connector and the other end onto the handheld shower head. Firmly tighten both connections, and double-check your specific product's installation diagram for additional steps.

Confirm that everything is working properly and that there are no leaks by checking the connections and turning on the faucet. If any leaks are detected, tighten the connections carefully with an adjustable wrench or channel-lock pliers, using a thick piece of cloth or leather to protect the surface.

Here's a summary of the installation process for different methods:

To replace the shower head with a handheld one, you'll need to prepare for the installation by discussing the three methods available, which are mentioned in the article.

First, turn off the water supply to the shower by locating the shut-off valves and turning them clockwise. This is a crucial step to prevent any water damage or mess during the installation.

Before starting the installation, it's essential to discuss the preparatory steps, which involve turning off the water supply and preparing the necessary tools, as mentioned in the article.

To remove the old shower head, you'll need to loosen the retaining nut that holds it in place, usually by turning it counterclockwise. Be prepared for any water that may start flowing once the nut is loosened.