Installing a rainfall shower head in place of a standard head can create a luxurious new feel to your shower experience. Ceiling mounted versions of rainfall shower heads can be expensive to install, but you can achieve the same luxurious results by attaching a rainfall shower head to a shower wall outlet. Enhance your daily shower by following this straightforward process.

Before you get started, there are a few things you need to know about rain shower heads.

First of all, what is a rainfall shower?

Unlike wall-mounted showers that produce a steady stream of water towards you, rainfall showers flow water over your head like rain. Some rainfall showers can be installed through the ceiling, whilst others are simple to install by changing the shower head.

What is a rainfall shower head like?

Rainfall shower heads are generally oversized at 8 - 14 inches wide and hang above your head, rather than pointing at an angle from the wall.

How to install a rainfall shower head

If you’ve never had a wall mounted rain shower head before, it is often as simple as exchanging one shower head for another. If you follow these step-by-step instructions, your new wall mounted shower head will be installed and ready for use in no time.

Step 1 - Measuring the shower head height

If you’re not sure how high to mount a rain shower head, it’s easy to work out with this simple tip. Measure the height of the existing shower head from the ceiling of the bathroom. A rainwater shower head requires an extra two to three inches of head height compared with a standard shower head.
Some models of rainwater shower heads require at least 11 inches of clearance from the ceiling. So, it is important to check how high your rain shower should be installed so it doesn’t end up at chest height.

Step 2 - Choosing a booster pump

Once you’ve chosen a shower head that allows a clear space between the shower head and the user, you may need a booster pump to ensure your shower head is at the right water pressure.
A larger-diameter shower head will have a smaller outlet pressure than a small-diameter version. Install a booster pump to maintain the water pressure. Anchor Pumps has a wide range of home booster sets, including Grundfos, Stuart Turner, Salamander, Lowara and Calpeda models.

Step 3 - Removing the old shower head

Remove any soap dishes, handles and bars so that there is nothing in your way and make sure the water is turned off before you start work.
The shower head and shower arm are two separate pieces and you should start by removing the shower head. Try to remove it by hand. You may need to use an adjustable wrench to remove the shower head if it is not hand tightened, so place a thin cloth over the metal to avoid any damage from the wrench.
Next, remove the shower arm. Again, you may need to use a wrench to remove the shower arm and there will be some Teflon tape left behind. This should be replaced when you install the new shower head.

Step 4 - Installing the new shower head

To ensure your new shower head hangs directly over you, you may need to buy a longer shower arm. Take a look through the hole in the wall where you have removed the old shower arm to make sure you have a drop ear elbow, supported with a cross brace. This will provide the support you need for the longer shower arm. You should also clean out the existing pipe and allow it to dry before installing the new arm.

Wrap Teflon tape clockwise around each end of the new shower arm to prevent any leaks. You should wrap it at least 3-4 times. Place the shower escutcheon flange over the pipe and start to screw it in place by hand. Once the arm is securely in place, attach your new rainfall shower head.

Step 5 - Test your new shower

If there is any excess Teflon tape showing, remove this to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your new shower. Test that the shower head is fitted correctly by turning on the water. If the water leaks, tighten up the shower head attachment by hand until the dripping stops, only using a wrench and protective cloth if necessary. Now, your rainfall shower should be ready for you to enjoy.

So, there you have it. Now you know how to install a new wall-mounted rainfall shower head in a simple, cost-effective way.

 

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