How to Remove a Stuck Shower Head: Step by Step

When you want to replace an old showerhead, it can be frustrating when you are unable to turn it. Showerheads simply screw onto the threaded end of the shower arm. Over time, mineral deposits and rust may accumulate on the threads, effectively locking the showerhead in place and making it impossible to unscrew. Fortunately, it is possible to remove a showerhead that is stuck so that you can replace it with something new. Here is how to do so.

Step one: Gather your supplies

In order to remove a stuck showerhead, you will need to gather some supplies that you likely already have in your home. Here is what you will need:

• Strap wrench
• Spray lubricant
• Distilled white vinegar
• Ziploc bag
• Rubber bands
• Pipe wrench

After you have gathered your supplies, you can move on to the next step.

Step two: Try to turn the showerhead with your strap wrench

Take your strap wrench and wrap its strap around the showerhead’s base. Make certain to tighten the strap so that it is very secure. Then, using your strap wrench, try to turn the showerhead counterclockwise. If you’re able to turn it, go ahead and finish removing it. If you can’t turn it, move on to the next step.

Step three: Try using spray lubricant

If you were unable to turn the showerhead with the strap wrench, spray some spray lubricant around the threads. Wait for approximately five to 10 minutes to give the lubricant time to work. Then, try to turn the showerhead counterclockwise again. If it doesn’t turn, spray more lubricant, wait another five minutes and try again.

Step four: Try using vinegar

If the spray lubricant doesn’t loosen the threads enough, try using vinegar. Pour some vinegar into your Ziploc bag and place the showerhead inside. You should use enough vinegar and a large enough bag that the vinegar covers the showerhead up past the threads. Secure the Ziploc bag in place with rubber bands, and let it soak overnight. In the morning, remove the bag and try to turn the showerhead counterclockwise again with your strap wrench.

Step five: Try using a pipe wrench

If you are still unable to unscrew your showerhead after trying all of the previous steps, use a pipe wrench. In order to add extra torque, attach a length of steel pipe to extend the handle. If the showerhead still will not budge, you may have to remove the shower arm and replace both the showerhead and the shower arm.

Getting an old showerhead unstuck so that you can remove it can be frustrating, but it is possible in many cases. If you can’t remove the showerhead by itself, remove the shower arm with the showerhead attached. You can then replace the old parts with the new ones that you have purchased so that you can have a shower that gleams and works well once again.

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