How to Install an Outdoor Shower, It's Easier Than You Think!

While the idea of plumbing an outdoor shower might sound intimidating, it’s surprisingly manageable, especially with the right tools. Watch as master plumber David Hunt (with 37 years of experience) demonstrates how straightforward it is when you use SharkBite’s latest PEX piping solutions. 

Gather Your Materials:

• SharkBite PEX Press
• PEX Press Female Drop-Ear Elbow
• PEX Press Brass Female Adapter
• PEX Press Brass Female Adapter Elbow
• PEX Pipe
• PEX Cutters
• SharkBite Hose Bibb
• SharkBite Max End Caps
• Shower Valve
• PEX Press Tool
• Stainless Steel Screws
• Screw Driver
• Teflon Tape
• Pipe Dope
• Level

Why PEX Press?  

Efficiency: Just prep, insert, and press! Install them in seconds and pressure test immediately.

Versatility: Compatible with PEX-a or PEX-b pipe and F3347/F3348 press tools. Made for potable water, recirculation, and hydronic heating applications.

Reliability: Designed for lasting performance, SharkBite PEX Press exceeds industry testing standards for long-term reliability. The integrated stainless-steel press sleeve, built-in tool locator, and pipe insertion indicators help deliver fast, accurate, and consistent connections every time.

Discover PEX Press: Made for Speed. Engineered for Confidence.

The Installation Process

Prefabrication: Start by prepping your shower valve. Apply Teflon tape and pipe dope to the valve to ensure a leak-free seal. Use adjustable wrenches to carefully tighten one PEX Press Brass Female Adapter and two PEX Press Brass Female Adapter Elbows onto the valve.

Rough-In: Whether you are installing a standard shower or adding a foot-washing station, the key is accurate measurement. Reference the chart below ton correctly install the valve and shower head.

Secure Connections: By using the PEX press tool, you can make secure connections even in tight spaces. Use PEX pipe and PEX Press fittings to install the shower by simply cutting the pex, deburring it, and pressing the fittings onto the pipe.  

Testing: Always test your work. David advises turning the water on slowly to check for pressure issues and using a manual touch test, by rubbing your finger around the joints, to ensure everything is perfectly dry.

Pro-Tips for Success

Sunlight: PEX pipe should not stay in the sun light for long periods of time. SharkBite PEX does have a 6 month UV rating, which is the highest available. In this application, we advise closing up the wall as soon as possible after the rough-in is complete.  

Don't Over-Tighten: If you feel resistance, stop tightening to avoid cross-threading.

Use Stainless Steel: When mounting shower fixtures, opt for stainless steel screws to prevent rust and long-term wiggling of the hardware.

Reuse for Testing: If you need to test pressure before the final build, using SharkBite push-to-connect caps allows you to save money and reuse the fittings later.

Key Takeaways

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In this video, master plumber David Hunt quickly walks through how to install an outdoor shower and foot washing station while sharing practical tips to help ensure a smooth, reliable installation. Here's some main things to keep mind:

• Simplify installation with SharkBite PEX piping and PEX Press fittings. These fittings feature a built-in viewport for quick visual confirmation and a tool locator for accurate pressing.
• Take time to prep the shower valve connections properly using Teflon tape and pipe dope to help prevent leaks.
• Measure carefully and position the valve at a comfortable height for easy use.
• Use stainless steel hardware outdoors to help prevent rust and extend the life of the installation.
• Be mindful how much time your PEX pipe sits in the sun and make sure to close the wall up in a timely manner.  
• Test thoroughly by turning on the water slowly and checking all connections to ensure a leak-free system.

Whether you're building a backyard shower or adding a convenient foot wash station, these simple best practices can help you complete the project with confidence.

Looking for other projects? Check out our how-to content for projects all around your home.  

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