The only downside to being tall is when the showerhead throws water at your neck and not over the head. I am over 6 feet, and most showerheads throw water below the neck area, so bathing is always a task for me.
Replacing the entire shower head unit wasn’t an option, so I started looking for some cheap solutions to adjust the shower head height.
In this post, you will find some easy DIY ways to adjust the showerhead height, so that it throws water over your head for a soothing bath.
Do You Need any Additional Accessories to Adjust the Shower Head Height?
Yes, you may need a new shower arm or other accessories to increase the shower head height. Here are a handful of accessories you can choose from:
S Shower Arm
I am using an S shower arm as it is the cheapest way to increase the shower head height. The arm is shaped like an S, and it puts the shower head 4-5 inches above its current position.
The biggest benefit of using an S arm is its durability. However, this accessory isn’t flexible, and your kids may complain that they cannot adjust the shower head height.
Swivel Ball Joint
If you need a flexible solution that lets you adjust the shower head’s height on the go, consider installing a swivel ball joint. The joint moves freely in all directions, and you can adjust the shower head in any direction.
Some swivel ball joints even let you turn the shower head downwards. Lastly, this accessory is beneficial for homes with kids.
Adjustable Shower Arm
It is just like an S shower arm but is adjustable. You can move the shower head up and down to get the suitable height for bathing. Adjustable shower arms are a bit pricey than S shower arms. So, if you are ready to spend a little more, go for adjustable shower arms.
Wall Mounted Handheld Shower Head Holder
Adjustable shower arms and swivel ball joints work well with fixed showerheads. If you have a handheld shower head, you should consider a wall-mounted shower head holder. Installing it is pretty easy, and you can even choose a head holder that sticks on the wall and doesn’t require any drilling.
Steps to Adjust Shower Head Height
So, you have purchased the right accessory and are ready to do some action. Here are some steps you need to follow to adjust the shower head height.
Step 1: Gather Materials
You need some tools to carry out the installation process. Adjusting a shower head height doesn’t require a lot of things. Make sure you have the following:
- Adjusting accessory (S shower arm or swivel ball joint)
- Teflon tape
- Crescent wrench
- Toothbrush
Step 2: Remove the Old Shower Head and Arm
Remove the existing shower head using a crescent wrench. Hold the shower head with a towel and unscrew the shower head from the shower arm.
Now place the shower head inside a box, and remove the shower arm. Make sure you have turned off the water supply before removing the shower head and the arm.
Removing the shower arm can be a little daunting because of rust and mineral buildup. Use a good penetrating oil, and unscrew it using the wrench.
If you have opted for a swivel ball joint, then there is no need to remove the shower arm. Just install it with the shower arm with a wrench and attach the shower head.
Sometimes the existing shower head doesn’t fit well with the swivel ball, so consider going for a new shower head to attach it with the ball joint.
Step 3: Install the New Accessory
Now it is time to install the new shower accessory. Install the S shower arm or adjustable shower arm with the water connection valve, and screw it properly using a wrench.
Use some Teflon tape on the shower arm’s end before screwing it with the valve to avoid leakage. Furthermore, screw the shower head with the shower arm, and you are good to go.
Step 4: Test It Out
Now it is time to test if the installation is proper or there are some water leaks. Turn on the water supply and inspect the shower arm and shower head thoroughly. Look for any leaks and make sure that everything is fine over there.
Try to adjust the shower head height if you have opted for an adjustable shower arm or swivel ball joint.
Final Thoughts
With these easy tips, you can quickly adjust the shower head height without spending a fortune. Buy the right accessory, and don’t hesitate to buy a new shower head if the existing shower head isn’t fitting well with the accessory.
Lastly, always clean the mineral buildup inside the shower head to ensure it throws water with good pressure.
Author Bio:
Hello, this is Richard, working as a Sr. Editor for BathAdvisors. I assist the writers in creating article outlines, structural edits, and proofreading. I also contribute to BathAdvisors through my blog posts. I spend my pastime reading books and gardening.
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