How to Add a Handheld Shower Head to Your Bathtub: A Step-by-Step Guide

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How to Add a Handheld Shower Head to a Bathtub

A handheld shower head is a great way to add versatility and convenience to your bathtub. It allows you to rinse off quickly, direct the water where you want it, and even give yourself a mini massage. Plus, it’s a great way to save water.

Adding a handheld shower head to your bathtub is a relatively simple project that you can do yourself in just a few minutes. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of how to do it.

We’ll start by discussing the different types of handheld shower heads available and how to choose the right one for your needs. Then, we’ll show you how to install a handheld shower head on a bathtub with a diverter valve and on a bathtub without a diverter valve.

By the end of this article, you’ll be able to add a handheld shower head to your bathtub and enjoy all the benefits it has to offer.

Step Tools Instructions
1 Pliers Turn off the water supply to the bathtub.
2 Adjustable wrench Remove the old shower head by unscrewing the nuts that hold it in place.
3 Tape measure Measure the distance from the wall to the center of the bathtub faucet.
4 Hacksaw Cut the supply line to the old shower head to the desired length.
5 Plumber’s putty Apply plumber’s putty to the threads of the new shower head.
6 Screwdriver Screw the new shower head onto the supply line.
7 Adjustable wrench Turn on the water supply to the bathtub and test the new shower head.

How to Add a Handheld Shower Head to a Bathtub

A handheld shower head is a great way to add versatility to your bathtub. It allows you to rinse off quickly, or to focus the water on specific areas of your body. Installing a handheld shower head is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few hours.

This guide will walk you through the steps of adding a handheld shower head to your bathtub. We’ll provide detailed instructions and images to help you along the way.

Gather Your Materials

The following materials are required to install a handheld shower head:

  • Handheld shower head
  • Shower arm
  • 1/2-inch copper pipe
  • 1/2-inch compression fittings
  • Pliers
  • Tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Level

Prepare the Bathtub

Before you can install the handheld shower head, you need to prepare the bathtub. This involves turning off the water supply to the bathtub and removing the old shower head.

1. Turn off the water supply to the bathtub. This is usually done by turning the shut-off valve located behind the bathtub.
2. Remove the old shower head from the bathtub spout. The old shower head is typically held in place by a setscrew. Use a pair of pliers to loosen the setscrew and remove the shower head.
3. Clean the threads on the bathtub spout with a rag. This will help to ensure a good seal when you install the new shower head.

Install the Shower Arm

The shower arm is the pipe that connects the handheld shower head to the bathtub spout. It is typically made of copper or plastic.

1. Cut a piece of 1/2-inch copper pipe to the desired length. The length of the pipe will depend on the distance between the bathtub spout and the desired location of the handheld shower head.
2. Slide a compression fitting onto each end of the copper pipe.
3. Connect the copper pipe to the bathtub spout using a compression fitting.
4. Connect the other end of the copper pipe to the handheld shower head using a compression fitting.

Install the Handheld Shower Head

The handheld shower head is typically held in place by a setscrew.

1. Slide the handheld shower head onto the shower arm.
2. Tighten the setscrew to secure the handheld shower head in place.

Test the Shower Head

Once you have installed the handheld shower head, turn on the water supply to the bathtub and test the shower head. Make sure that the water flows freely and that the shower head is properly secured.

Installing a handheld shower head is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few hours. By following the steps in this guide, you can add a convenient and versatile feature to your bathtub.

Here are some additional tips for installing a handheld shower head:

  • Make sure that the handheld shower head is compatible with your bathtub.
  • Use Teflon tape or pipe sealant to ensure a good seal between the shower arm and the bathtub spout.
  • Tighten the setscrew on the handheld shower head securely to prevent it from coming loose.
  • Test the shower head to make sure that it is working properly.

By following these tips, you can install a handheld shower head that will add convenience and versatility to your bathtub.

How To Add A Handheld Shower Head To A Bathtub?

Adding a handheld shower head to your bathtub is a great way to increase your bathing options. You can use the handheld shower head to rinse off quickly, or to give yourself a more thorough shower. You can also use the handheld shower head to clean your bathtub.

This guide will show you how to add a handheld shower head to a bathtub. We’ll walk you through the steps, provide tips, and answer common questions.

Tools and Materials

To add a handheld shower head to your bathtub, you will need the following tools and materials:

  • A handheld shower head
  • A shower arm
  • A compression fitting
  • A copper pipe
  • A plumber’s wrench
  • A hacksaw
  • A bucket
  • A wet/dry vacuum
  • Plumber’s tape
  • Silicone sealant

Step 1: Prepare the Bathtub

The first step is to prepare the bathtub for the installation of the handheld shower head. This involves removing the old shower head, if there is one, and cleaning the bathtub.

To remove the old shower head, you will need to turn off the water to the bathtub. Then, use a plumber’s wrench to unscrew the shower head from the bathtub spout.

Once the old shower head is removed, clean the bathtub spout with a damp cloth. This will remove any dirt or debris that could interfere with the installation of the new shower head.

Step 2: Install the Shower Arm

The next step is to install the shower arm. The shower arm is the pipe that will connect the handheld shower head to the bathtub spout.

To install the shower arm, you will need to slide the shower arm over the bathtub spout. Then, apply plumber’s tape to the threads of the shower arm. This will help to create a watertight seal.

Finally, hand-tighten the shower arm to the bathtub spout. Do not overtighten the shower arm, as this could damage the threads.

Step 3: Connect the Shower Head to the Shower Arm

The next step is to connect the shower head to the shower arm. To do this, you will need to slide the compression fitting onto the end of the shower arm.

Then, insert the copper pipe into the compression fitting. The copper pipe should be long enough to reach the handheld shower head.

Once the copper pipe is inserted into the compression fitting, hand-tighten the compression fitting to the shower arm. Do not overtighten the compression fitting, as this could damage the threads.

Finally, connect the shower head to the copper pipe. The shower head should be able to rotate freely on the copper pipe.

Step 4: Test the Shower Head

Once the handheld shower head is installed, it is important to test it to make sure that it is working properly.

To test the shower head, turn on the water to the bathtub. Then, turn on the handheld shower head. The water should flow out of the shower head in a strong, steady stream.

If the water is not flowing out of the shower head properly, you may need to adjust the compression fitting. You may also need to replace the shower head.

Adding a handheld shower head to your bathtub is a relatively simple project that can be completed in a few hours. By following these steps, you can add a new level of convenience and versatility to your bathing experience.

How do I add a handheld shower head to my bathtub?

1. Turn off the water supply to the bathtub. This is usually located at the main water shutoff valve for your home.
2. Remove the old shower head. To do this, you will need to unscrew the shower head from the bathtub spout. If the shower head is stuck, you can try using a wrench or pliers to loosen it.
3. Install the new shower head. The new shower head should come with instructions on how to install it. If not, you can find instructions online or from the manufacturer.
4. Turn on the water supply to the bathtub and test the new shower head. Make sure that the water is flowing properly and that the shower head is working correctly.

What are the benefits of adding a handheld shower head to my bathtub?

  • A handheld shower head gives you more flexibility when showering. You can use it to rinse your hair, wash your body, or clean the bathtub.
  • A handheld shower head can also be more comfortable than a fixed shower head. You can hold it in your hand and direct the water where you want it.
  • Handheld shower heads are often less expensive than fixed shower heads.

What are some things to consider when choosing a handheld shower head?

  • The size of the shower head. The size of the shower head will determine how much water it can output. If you have a small bathtub, you will need a smaller shower head.
  • The type of spray. The type of spray will determine how the water comes out of the shower head. You can choose from a variety of different sprays, such as a pulsing spray, a massage spray, or a rain shower.
  • The material of the shower head. The material of the shower head will affect how long it lasts. Stainless steel and brass shower heads are more durable than plastic shower heads.

How do I maintain my handheld shower head?

  • To keep your handheld shower head clean, you should rinse it with water after each use.
  • You should also clean the shower head regularly with a vinegar and water solution. To do this, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a bucket. Soak the shower head in the solution for 30 minutes. Then, rinse the shower head with water and dry it with a towel.
  • If the shower head is clogged, you can try using a descaling solution to clean it. To do this, follow the instructions on the descaling solution.

What are some common problems with handheld shower heads?

  • One common problem with handheld shower heads is that they can become clogged. This can be caused by mineral deposits or soap scum. To fix this problem, you can try using a descaling solution or vinegar and water solution.
  • Another common problem with handheld shower heads is that the water pressure is too low. This can be caused by a number of factors, such as a clogged shower head, a faulty water valve, or a problem with the water supply. To fix this problem, you should first check the shower head to make sure it is not clogged. If the shower head is not clogged, you should check the water valve to make sure it is open all the way. If the water valve is open all the way, you should check the water supply to make sure there is no problem with the pressure.

How can I troubleshoot problems with my handheld shower head?

  • If your handheld shower head is not working properly, you can try the following troubleshooting steps:
  • Check the water supply to make sure there is water coming out of the faucet.
  • Check the shower head to make sure it is not clogged.
  • Check the water valve to make sure it is open all the way.
  • If the problem persists, you may need to replace the shower head.

    adding a handheld shower head to your bathtub is a relatively simple and affordable way to improve your bathing experience. By following the steps in this guide, you can install a new shower head in just a few minutes. With a handheld shower head, you can enjoy a more refreshing and invigorating shower, and you can also use it to clean your bathtub more easily.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.