A handheld shower head has numerous benefits over a fixed shower head. It makes showering easier for people with limited mobility, allows you to pour hot water over an aching joint, and helps bathing your pets.
If you didn’t install a dual shower head but want to upgrade your shower, don’t worry; you are at the right place. You can easily install a handheld shower head to your existing fixed shower via the short bent pipe from the wall. It is also easy to install a handheld shower head to a tub spout.
Kits for Converting a Fixed Shower or Tub into a Handheld Shower Head
Standard Fitting
You might not always need to replace the standard fitting to add a handheld shower head, but you will need to connect the handheld shower to it. This is typically done using a hose. The bottom end of the handheld shower hose screws onto the standard fitting where the original shower head was attached. If you want to keep the original shower head as well, a diverter will be needed in addition to the standard fitting.
Cross-Tee Diverter Fitting
This fitting is ideal for adding a handheld shower head alongside an existing shower head. The cross-tee diverter is installed between the shower’s water supply pipe and the existing shower head. One outlet of the cross-tee connects to the original shower head, and the other to the hose of the handheld shower. This setup allows you to choose between the fixed shower head, the handheld head, or even both simultaneously, depending on the type of diverter.
Tub Spout Diverter Valve
If your existing setup is a combination of a bathtub and shower, a tub spout diverter valve can be used. These valves typically have a connection for a handheld shower. By pulling up the diverter valve, water is redirected from the tub spout to the shower head. In this setup, you would connect the hose of the handheld shower to the outlet on the diverter valve. This setup allows you to switch between filling the tub, using the fixed shower head (if one exists), and using the handheld shower head.
How to Replace a Fixed Shower Head with a Handheld Shower?
This is a simple method and works like replacing a fixed shower head. If you go with this method, you will only have a handheld shower in your bathroom.
Tools Required
- Adjustable Wrench
- Teflon Tape (Plumber’s Tape)
- Towel or Cloth
- Handheld Shower Head Kit
Detailed Instructions
Turn Off the Water Supply
Before starting, ensure the water supply to the shower is turned off. This prevents any accidental water spray or leakage while you’re working.
Remove the Old Shower Head
Use the adjustable wrench to gently loosen and unscrew the old shower head from the shower arm. Be careful not to apply too much force to avoid damaging the pipes. Place a towel or cloth around the shower arm to protect it from scratches.
Clean the Shower Arm Threads
Once the old shower head is removed, clean the threads of the shower arm. Remove any old Teflon tape, debris, or buildup to ensure a clean and secure fit for the new handheld shower head.
Apply Teflon Tape
Wrap Teflon tape around the threads of the shower arm in a clockwise direction. This helps to create a watertight seal and prevents leaks. Ensure the tape is wrapped evenly and smoothly.
Attach the New Handheld Shower Head
Screw the base of the handheld shower head or the mounting bracket onto the shower arm by hand. Tighten it securely but avoid over-tightening, which can damage the threads or the shower head.
Attach the Hose and Shower Head
Connect one end of the hose to the handheld shower head and the other end to the mount or diverter (if included in your kit). Ensure both connections are tight and secure.
Test for Leaks
Turn the water supply back on and check for any leaks around the connections. If you notice any drips or leaks, slightly tighten the connections or apply more Teflon tape if necessary.
Adjust and Secure the Handheld Shower Head
Place the handheld shower head in its holder or mount and adjust it to your preferred height and angle. Make sure it’s securely attached and doesn’t slip or move excessively.
How to Add a Handheld Shower Head using a Cross-Tee Diverter Fitting?
This method lets you keep the existing fixed shower head and add a handheld shower. It is also a simple method that most homeowners can do themselves. This setup makes your shower versatile and caters to different showering styles. It is also great for people with limited movement and for bathing your pets.
Tools Required
- Adjustable Wrench
- Teflon Tape (Plumber’s Tape)
- Towel or Cloth
- Cross-Tee Diverter Fitting
- Handheld Shower Head Kit
Detailed Instructions
Turn Off the Water Supply
Ensure safety and prevent water spillage by turning off the water supply to your shower. This is a crucial step before beginning any plumbing modifications to avoid accidental water flow during installation.
Remove the Existing Shower Head
Carefully unscrew the existing shower head from the shower arm using the adjustable wrench. Wrap a towel or cloth around the shower arm during this process to protect it from scratches or damage. Do not apply excessive force to prevent any damage to the plumbing.
Clean and Prepare the Shower Arm
Once the shower head is removed, thoroughly clean the threads on the arm. This step is important to ensure a good seal with the new fittings. Remove any old Teflon tape, dirt, or debris to prepare the surface for the new diverter fitting.
Apply Teflon Tape to the Shower Arm
Wrap Teflon tape around the cleaned threads of the shower arm in a clockwise direction. This helps create a secure and leak-proof seal for the new fittings. Ensure that the tape is evenly and smoothly applied for optimal effectiveness.
Install the Cross-Tee Diverter Fitting
Attach the cross-tee diverter fitting onto the shower arm. Screw it on by hand at first to ensure proper alignment, and then tighten it using the adjustable wrench. Be cautious not to over-tighten, as this can damage the fitting or threads.
Reattach the Original Shower Head
Screw the original shower head onto one of the outlets of the cross-tee diverter. Make sure it’s securely attached and properly aligned. Again, avoid over-tightening to prevent damage.
Attach the Handheld Shower Head
Connect the hose of the handheld shower head to the other outlet on the diverter. Secure the handheld shower head to its holder or bracket, typically mounted on the wall or attached to the existing shower arm.
Test the Installation
Turn the water supply back on and test both the original and handheld shower heads. Check for leaks at all connections. Adjust and tighten connections as needed to ensure a leak-free operation.
Adjust and Secure the Handheld Shower Head
Position the handheld shower head in its holder or bracket. Adjust it to your preferred height and angle, ensuring it’s securely in place and does not move excessively during use.
How to Install a Handheld Shower using a Tub Spout Diverter Valve?
This method can be used when your existing setup is only a tub or a tub with a fixed shower head. It is also a simple DIY method that requires removing the current tub spout and replacing it with a new one.
Tools Required
- Adjustable Wrench
- Teflon Tape (Plumber’s Tape)
- Towel or Cloth
- Tub Spout Diverter Valve
- Handheld Shower Head Kit
Instructions
Turn Off the Water Supply
Before starting the installation, ensure the water supply to your bathroom is turned off. This prevents accidental water release and ensures a safe working environment while modifying the plumbing.
Remove the Existing Tub Spout
Use the adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the existing tub spout. Place a towel or cloth around the spout to protect it and the surrounding area from scratches. Some spouts may be screwed on, while others might require a twisting or pulling motion to detach.
Clean and Prepare the Tub Spout Pipe
After removing the spout, clean the exposed pipe thoroughly. Remove any old Teflon tape or residue to ensure a clean surface for installing the new diverter valve. A clean pipe ensures a better seal and fit for the new installation.
Apply Teflon Tape to the Pipe
Wrap Teflon tape in a clockwise direction around the threads of the pipe where the tub spout was attached. This tape helps prevent leaks by ensuring a tight seal between the pipe and the new diverter valve.
Install the Tub Spout Diverter Valve
Attach the new tub spout diverter valve to the prepared pipe. Tighten it by hand initially to avoid cross-threading, and then use the wrench for a secure fit. Be cautious not to over-tighten, as this could damage the threads or the valve.
Attach the Handheld Shower Hose
Connect the hose of the handheld shower head to the outlet on the diverter valve. Ensure that the connection is tight and secure to prevent leaks during operation.
Mount the Handheld Shower Head
Install the holder or bracket for the handheld shower head according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This may involve drilling into the wall or using a suction cup or adhesive mount, depending on the design of your shower kit.
Test for Functionality and Leaks
Turn the water supply back on and test the functionality of the tub spout diverter and the handheld shower head. Ensure that water can be properly diverted between the tub spout and the handheld shower. Check all connections for any leaks and tighten or adjust as needed.
Secure and Adjust the Handheld Shower Head
Finally, place the handheld shower head in its holder or bracket. Adjust it to the desired height and angle for ease of use. Ensure that it is stable and securely mounted for daily use.
Benefits of Adding a Handheld Shower Head to Your Shower Setup
- Versatility in Showering Experience: A handheld shower head allows for targeted water flow, making it easier to rinse hard-to-reach areas. This flexibility is especially beneficial for washing children, pets, or assisting those with limited mobility.
- Easier Cleaning and Maintenance: Handheld shower heads can be used to directly spray down and clean the shower area, simplifying the process of keeping your shower clean and reducing the effort required for maintenance.
- Water Conservation: Many handheld shower heads come with adjustable flow settings, allowing more efficient water use. This can lead to significant water savings, especially in households with frequent shower use.
- Therapeutic Benefits: The ability to direct the flow of water can offer therapeutic benefits, such as targeted muscle relaxation and relief. This is especially helpful for individuals with muscle aches or those seeking a spa-like experience at home.
- Increased Accessibility: For elderly individuals or those with disabilities, a handheld shower head can greatly increase the accessibility of a shower. It allows users to bathe while seated and reduces the need for excessive movement or reaching.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you change shower heads in an apartment?
Yes, you can change shower heads in an apartment, typically without much difficulty. However, it’s important to check with your landlord or property management to ensure it is allowed under your lease terms. The process is usually simple and reversible, so you can switch back to the original shower head when moving out.
Can you add a handheld shower head to a rain fall shower head?
You can add a handheld shower head to a rainfall shower head setup. This is usually done using a diverter valve, which allows you to switch water flow between the rainfall shower head and the handheld unit. It’s a great way to combine the luxurious feel of a rainfall shower with the convenience and flexibility of a handheld shower head.
