How to install a waterfall shower head?

Waterfall shower heads are gaining popularity among homeowners as they bring a sense of luxury and wellness to the bathroom. Here are some tips to help you easily install a waterfall shower head.

What is a Waterfall shower head?

Waterfall shower heads, also called rainfall shower heads, are designed to envelop the user with a gentle stream of water similar to rain, making them an ideal way to enhance daily life. However, before installing them, there are certain factors to consider. These showerheads are typically wider than standard ones, so it is important to ensure that all the water is directed towards the bathtub or shower tray. Additionally, it is crucial to determine whether the shower head is meant to be ceiling or wall-mounted, which can depend on the existing plumbing installation.

How to replace a old shower head with a waterfall shower head?

Step 1: Remove the old shower head

The process of removing your old shower head will depend on its type and installation. If it was installed using screws, it may be possible to unscrew it by hand. However, if your current showerhead is old and firmly attached, you might require a wrench to unscrew it.

Step 2: Clean the shower arm

Before installing the new rain showerhead, it is important to check the condition of the existing shower arm which will be used for the installation. Firstly, ensure that it is clean and free from grit, debris, and old tape on the threads. Clean the threads thoroughly, if required. It’s also important to inspect the threads for any signs of wear and tear, and check that the pipe is not corroded or rusted. If the pipe shows signs of corrosion or rust, it is recommended to replace it with a new one.

Step 3: Tape

Using tape is crucial to prevent any leaks during the installation of your new rain showerhead. This step requires a steady hand and precision, so take it slow and redo it if necessary. Remember to wrap the tape around the threads in a clockwise direction to prevent it from unwrapping while attaching the showerhead. Carefully align the tape over the threads and wrap three to five layers over them, making sure not to use too much tape, as you still want the threads to be functional. Check for wrinkles or bumps and smooth out the tape to fit snugly and firmly on the threads.

Step 4: Place the new shower head

Ensure that the washer is in place before screwing the new rain shower head onto the shower arm in a clockwise direction by hand. Once it’s in place and reasonably tight, use a wrench (or pliers) to further tighten it. A useful tip to prevent any scuffs or scratches on the new rain shower head is to wrap a strip of old towel around it before tightening with the wrench (or pliers). Remember not to over tighten it as you may need to remove it for cleaning purposes in the future.

Step 5: Testing

Before putting away your tools and enjoying a well-deserved break, test your new rain shower head for leaks by running the shower for a couple of minutes. If you notice any leaks, double-check that the showerhead is properly tightened, make adjustments as needed, and repeat the test. If leaks persist, you may have to remove the showerhead and reapply the tape.

For a new installation, how to install a waterfall shower head?

Start by measuring the height of your current shower arm, from the shower floor to the center of the arm. Next, measure the height of the tallest person who will be using the shower. It’s recommended to install the rain showerhead at least a few inches higher than the height of the tallest user to avoid water shooting at their face. This is particularly important for ceiling installations to prevent any accidental. The same principle applies when wall mounting the showerhead. The difference in height between the current shower arm and where the new head would comfortably be positioned (several inches above the tallest user) is how much the new arm needs to extend vertically.

It is crucial to check for any hidden cables or pipelines before drilling any holes for the shower panel brackets. This is to avoid damaging any electrical or plumbing components that may be located behind the wall. Use a stud finder or consult with a professional if you are unsure about the safety of drilling in a particular location.

Conclusion

We hope that our step-by-step guide on how to install a waterfall shower head was helpful to you. Installing a new shower head can seem daunting, but with the right tools and instructions, it can be accomplished easily in just a few steps. Your new waterfall shower head is sure to provide a luxurious and relaxing experience that will make your daily showers more enjoyable. Thank you for reading and happy showering!