How To: Install a New Shower Head & Trim
Whether you’re working on a new build, renovating your bathroom, or simply want to upgrade your shower, here are some ways to make installing a new shower head and trim fast and easy.
Shower Head Installation
First, disconnect the old shower head with an adjustable wrench and remove the old Teflon tape from the shower arm. Then, using new Teflon tape, wrap it clockwise onto the shower arm and thread the new shower head on. Use adjustable wrenches to tighten it and turn the water on to test the connection.
To replace both the head and arm of your shower, move the old shower head as normal. Then, insert the handle of your adjustable wrench into the shower arm and twist it counterclockwise until it comes loose. Remove the old arm and apply Teflon tape and pipe dope to your new shower arm on the side that will be in the wall. Then, slide your escutcheon onto the pipe. Hand-tighten it into the wall and use the handle of your wrench to finish tightening, twisting clockwise. Once it is secure, wrap the end of your shower head in Teflon tape, unless it has a plastic end. Tighten the new shower head onto the arm and turn the water on to test the connection.
Shower Trim Installation
First, remove the old shower trim with a screwdriver, flat-head screwdriver and a hex key. When working in a tile shower, be careful when removing the trim so it doesn’t crack or scratch the tile.
To replace your shower trim, use a hex key to remove the handle. Then, use a screwdriver to remove the handle stop and screws from the cover plate. Remove the cover plate with your flat head screwdriver or a flat razor, which will break the seal. In most cases, you can break the seal from the bottom, which usually has a groove to make removal easier.
If you need to replace your shower valve, we recommend using the EZ-Flo Threaded Quarter-Turn Tub and Shower Valve, which ensures a consistent water temperature to prevent scalding.
Learn More: How To: Install a Shower Valve
Now you can install the new shower trim. Look at the packaging and instructions of your new trim to see which internal component adjusts the temperature. With this piece in hand, turn the slider to the right for hotter water and the left for colder water. This determines how gradually the temperature changes and how hot or cold it will get, so do not turn it too far from the center.
Then, screw the new cover plate into the wall and insert the adjusted internal components. Screw everything in, as well as the handle, with a screwdriver and hex wrench. Calk the trim as needed and test that everything is working properly by turning the water on.