Search for signs of rust—is there an orange or copper colored ring around the shower head’s connection to the shower arm? Search for signs of mineral build-up—is there a white ring around the the shower head’s attachment to the shower arm? If there are no signs of rust or mineral build-up, it is likely that your shower head is attached too tightly.
Under the bathroom sink. In the basement directly below the tub.
Cover the fixture’s connector or plumbing nut with an old cloth to protect the metal. Grip the connector or nut with a wrench or pair of locking pliers. First, turn the wrench or pliers clockwise in an attempt to break the rust or mineral deposits. Turn the tool counterclockwise to loosen and remove the shower head. [2] X Research source
Read the instructions on the bottle of rust, calcium, and lime remover. Apply the product as instructed. Allow the product to sit for the allotted time. Scrub off the product with a wire brush, removing the rust, calcium, and lime in the process. Wipe the shower head and shower arm clean. [3] X Research source
Apply one coat of the penetrating lubricant to the connector or nut. Allow it to sit for two hours. Apply a second coat of the penetrating lubricant to the connector or nut. Allow it to sit for two hours. Cover the connector or nut with a cloth. Grip the fixture or nut with a wrench and attempt to loosen the shower head. [4] X Research source
Place the shower head in a small basin. Pour white distilled vinegar into the basin until the shower head is completely submerged. Allow the shower head to soak over night. Rise the shower head by running it under cold tap water. [5] X Research source
Always follow the instructions listed on the product.
Peel off the old plumber’s tape from the shower arm’s treads. Use a wire brush or an exacto-knife if needed. If rust or mineral build-up is visible, apply a rust, calcium, and lime remover to the shower head. Allow the product to sit for the allotted time. Use a wire brush to remove the product and scrub off the rust, calcium, and lime. Use an old rag to wipe the shower arm clean. [7] X Research source
Wrap the shower arm’s threads with 2 to 3 layers of plumber’s tape in a clockwise pattern. Press the tape between the threads. [9] X Research source
Attach a fixed-mounted shower head. This is your basic shower head. Place the shower head onto the threads of the shower arm. Use your hands to turn in a clockwise direction to tighten the fixture. Attach a hand-held shower head. This shower head is attached to a hose. Place the shower mount onto the shower arm. Tighten the shower mount with your hands. Connect one end of the hose to the shower mount and the other end to the shower head. [10] X Research source Tighten the connectors by hand. Place the shower head in the shower mount.
Add more plumber’s tape if needed. [11] X Research source
