How To Install A Handheld Shower (Every Type!)

ByDino Pelle

Knowing how to install a handheld shower won’t take much brainpower, but we do have some tips and tricks.

More so, we’ll clearly show you how to install it on an existing shower, on just a tub, or on a hanger that you first need to install.

How to Install a Handheld Shower

A hand shower attached to an existing shower is a luxurious addition to your shower or bathtub. More so, a hand shower attached to a tub faucet is an economical alternative to installing a complete shower, sparing you the trouble of cutting open walls and installing new plumbing.

A variety of designs range from simple to exotic. Regardless, installing one is quick and easy. On the positive side, it’s a straightforward bathroom upgrade well within the skill level of any do-it-yourselfer.

What You Need to Get Started

You’ll need about an hour or two of your time for all three types of installation. No special skills are required, but you will need a screwdriver, groove-joint pliers, joint tape, a drill, a hammer, and an awl.

How to use plumbers tape - how to use teflon tape on threaded joints
To make your joints and fittings watertight and leak-proof, you’ll want to tape your threads with Teflon tape (or joint tape).

How to Install on an Existing Shower

  • Remove the showerhead.
  • Tape the jaws of your pliers or wrench to protect any chrome parts from scratches.
  • Clean the threads.
  • If your shower arm doesn’t have male threads, replace it with one that does.
  • Wrap the threads with joint tape and screw on the hand shower with pleirs.
  • The hand shower connector may have a diverter (which allows you to choose either the fixed or the handheld shower head), a hanger bracket (the new head fits on it), or a direct hose hookup (the hose attaches to the shower arm).
  • For the latter, install a shower hanger (see below)
how to install a handheld shower - use wrench and do not scratch
Use a rag, or place something like electrical tape around the plier jaws, to protect the showerhead and shower arm.

How to Install on a Tub-Only Unit

  • To remove the old tub spout, insert the handle of a hammer or pliers into the spout opening and turn counterclockwise. You can also use a larger wrench on the outside of the spout, but make sure you place masking tape or a rag around the spout to protect it.
  • CAUTION: Check first to see if the tub spout has a setscrew at the bottom of its base. If that’s the case, use an Alan wrench to unscrew it.
  • Then, clean the pipe threads.
  • You might need to remove the existing nipple and install one that is longer or shorter.
  • Apply joint tape and screw on the new spout with a diverter valve.
  • Lastly, attach the hose to the shower-hose fitting.
how to install a handheld shower - remove with alan wrench
Loosen the tub spout by placing an Alan (or Hex) wrench into the screw that is holding it in place. Then remove by turning the spout counterclockwise or pulling it straight off. If you need to use a wrench, make sure the jaws are either taped over or insert the handle of the wrench into the mount of the spout (and then turn counterclockwise). The rubber handles of the pliers will protect the spout.

How to Mount the Shower Hanger

Some hangers have self-sticking backs. In brief, simply peel off the paper backing and stick the hanger in place. Be sure the wall is absolutely clean and dry before doing this.

For a more permanent solution, follow these steps:

  • Hold the hanger in position and mark the screw holes.
  • With a hammer and an awl or nail, tap a little nick into the tile (gently, so you don’t crack the tile).
  • The nick will keep your masonry bit from slipping on the ceramic glase as you start the hole.
  • Drill the holes, push plastic anchors in place, and secure the hanger with screws.
how to install a handheld shower - drill hole in ceramic tile
Another tip to protect tile is to place masking tape over the area you are drilling into. But before drilling, make sure you mark the screw holes first.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re installing a handheld shower on an existing shower, on a bathtub-only unit, or just want to mount a shower hanger, that’s all there is to it. Pretty simple, eh? This is a project that’s perfect for the DIY beginner. Overall, it doesn’t take long, it needs only tools that are commonly available, and there are no complex mechanics involved.

Call 1-Tom-Plumber

In the meantime, don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us at 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) if you need help installing a handheld shower.

1-Tom-Plumber’s certified team of plumbers and drain technicians respond immediately to any emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, or water damage problem. We also handle the excavation of underground water lines and sewer main lines. Our immediate-response team is available every day and night of the year, even on holidays.

Similar Posts