Whether you live in a Boston apartment or a rental house in Bellingham, WA, changing a shower head is one of the simplest do-it-yourself apartment upgrades. But is it allowed? The short answer is usually yes, but the process can depend on your lease agreement and how your landlord or property manager feels about making simple modifications. In most cases, a quick conversation with them will clear up any questions, and they’ll likely allow you to swap the shower head as long as you do it correctly and don’t damage anything.
The best thing about swapping out your apartment showerhead is that it doesn’t require any specialized plumbing skills. You won’t need an expensive tool set, either. Plus, you’ll make your daily showers more enjoyable with a high-pressure or water-saving fixture. In this ApartmentGuide article we’ll walk you through each step of the process—from checking your lease to finishing with a final test—so you can enjoy an upgraded bathroom with minimal hassle.
1. Before changing your shower head, check your lease or get permission
Before you pick up a wrench or buy a new shower head, the first step is to figure out if it’s allowed. Can you change a shower head in apartment lease agreements? Most modern leases don’t strictly prohibit this small upgrade, especially since it’s not a permanent change to the plumbing. However, every landlord is different, so it’s always wise to double-check. A quick phone call or email to your property manager or landlord can save you from misunderstandings down the road.
When you reach out, explain that you’d like to replace the existing shower head with something more efficient or higher quality. Emphasize that you’ll keep the original shower head and reinstall it when you move out, leaving the apartment exactly how you found it. Most landlords appreciate a tenant who asks for permission and takes care of the property, making them more inclined to give you the go-ahead.
2. Gather your tools and supplies
Once you’ve confirmed it’s okay to switch out the shower head, it’s time to gather what you’ll need. Fortunately, this list is short and inexpensive. You’ll want:
- A new shower head: Choose one that suits your preferences, whether you want a rain shower, high-pressure stream, or eco-friendly water-saving shower head.
- Adjustable wrench or pliers: A simple wrench or pair of pliers is usually enough to unscrew the existing shower head.
- Plumber’s tape (Teflon tape): This helps prevent leaks by sealing the connection between the shower arm and the new fixture.
- Old rag or cloth: To protect the finish on the shower arm if you need to use pliers or a wrench.
Make sure you read the packaging or instructions that come with your new shower head. Most kits include an instruction guide, but if they don’t, these steps will cover what you need to know.
3. Remove the old shower head
Now it’s time for the fun part: taking off the old shower head. Start by closing the shower door or curtain (just in case water drips) and turning off any water flow, though you typically don’t need to shut off the water supply at the main valve for this simple task.
- Protect the shower arm: Wrap an old rag or cloth around the spot where you’ll place the wrench to avoid scratching the metal.
- Loosen the shower head: Place the adjustable wrench or pliers around the base of the shower head and twist it counterclockwise. You usually won’t need much force—if it’s stubborn, apply a bit more pressure or add a little penetrating oil to help loosen any buildup.
- Unscrew by hand: Once it’s loose, you can unscrew the rest of the way with your hand.
After it’s removed, take a look at the shower arm threads. If there’s old plumber’s tape or gunk, wipe it away with a damp cloth so you have a clean surface to work with.
4. Install the new shower head
Installing your new fixture is as straightforward as removing the old one. Here’s how:
- Apply plumber’s tape: Wrap a layer or two of plumber’s tape (also known as Teflon tape) around the threads of the shower arm. This tape helps seal the connection and prevents leaks. Make sure to wrap it in the same direction you’ll be turning the shower head (usually clockwise), so it doesn’t unravel when you screw on the fixture.
- Attach the new shower head: Screw the new head onto the shower arm by hand, turning it clockwise. Try to get it as snug as you can without over-tightening.
- Use the wrench if needed: If you need a bit of extra leverage, use the wrench gently, keeping a cloth over the shower arm to avoid scratches. Be careful not to tighten too much, as this could damage the fixture or the arm.
5. Test for leaks and adjust
Now that the new shower head is in place, turn on the water to see how it flows. Check for any signs of leaking around the connection. If there’s water seeping out, gently tighten the fixture a bit more or add an extra layer of plumber’s tape. Adjust the spray settings according to your preference, and ensure everything is working smoothly. Turn the shower on to test if you’d like—just be sure to point the head away from your face in case the pressure is more powerful than expected.
6. Keep the original shower head and clean up
When you’re satisfied with the new setup, make sure to store the old shower head in a safe place. Most renters keep it in a closet or box so they can reattach it before moving out. That way, you won’t risk losing your security deposit if your landlord wants the apartment restored to its original condition.
Finally, clean up any tools or tape scraps, and wipe down the shower area. You’ll appreciate a tidy bathroom the next time you step in for a nice, relaxing shower.
7. Enjoy your upgraded shower
So, can you change a shower head in apartment living situations? In most cases, absolutely! The key is to get permission, follow a few simple steps, and keep your landlord’s preferences in mind by saving the original fixture. This small DIY upgrade is often a game-changer for daily comfort, and the whole process typically takes less than 15 minutes.
By swapping out an older, low-pressure head for one that suits your personal needs, you can transform an average shower into a spa-like experience. Plus, if you opt for a water-saving model, you might even reduce your utility bills (or at least help the planet) in the process. Happy showering—and congratulations on making your apartment feel a bit more like home!
FAQs about changing a shower head in an apartment
What should I do with the old shower head?
Keep it in a safe place, like a storage closet or under the sink, so you can reinstall it before you move out.
What type of shower head is best for an apartment?
Look for a model that balances water pressure and efficiency. Many renters opt for a high-pressure or water-saving shower head to improve their daily routine while keeping utility bills low.
Can I install a handheld shower head in a rental?
Yes! Most handheld shower heads attach the same way as standard models and don’t require permanent modifications.
Will changing my shower head affect my water bill?
It depends on the model you choose. A high-efficiency shower head can reduce water usage, potentially lowering your bill if you pay for water separately from rent.
How do I avoid damaging the shower arm when replacing the shower head?
Use a soft cloth or rag to protect the finish when using pliers or a wrench, and avoid overtightening the new fixture.
Can I take my new shower head with me when I move out?
Yes, as long as you reinstall the original shower head before leaving to avoid any potential deductions from your security deposit.
