Installing a shower filter can greatly improve your shower experience by filtering out chemicals, minerals, and impurities from your water supply. A shower filter removes chlorine, protects hair and skin from damage, and leaves you with cleaner, softer water for bathing. Installing one is a relatively easy home improvement project that can be completed in just a few steps.

Introduction

A shower filter is an inexpensive way to reap huge benefits for your hair, skin, and overall health. Unfiltered shower water contains chlorine, heavy metals, scale, and other contaminants that not only leave skin and hair feeling dry but can also cause long term damage.

Shower filters work by running the water supply through a filtering medium like KDF, activated carbon, or ceramic balls in order to remove up to 99% of these impurities. The end result is a shower experience that feels gentler, softer, and more nourishing.

The good news is that installing a shower filter is a quick and easy process. With a few tools and following the step-by-step instructions, you can have a filtered shower system set up in less than 30 minutes.

Choosing a Shower Filter System

The first step is to choose the right shower filter for your home’s water system. Key factors to consider are:

• Filtering Method – Popular options include KDF media, activated carbon, vitamin C, and ceramic balls. Each has different effectiveness for chlorine, minerals, metals, and chemicals.
• Filter Life – Frequency for replacing filters ranges from 6 months to 1 year. Longer life means fewer replacements.
• Showerhead Type – Matches existing fixed or handheld showerhead style.
• Ease of Use – Look for quick and simple cartridge changes.
• Budget – Prices range from $15 for basic inline filters up to $70+ for multi-stage systems.

Once you select the ideal shower filter, verify that your model matches your existing showerhead connection type. The most common are standard 1/2 inch or multifunction hand shower connectors.

Measuring your existing showerhead arm and buying accordingly ensures hassle free installation.

Where to Install Your Shower Filter

Shower filters are installed:

• At the Shower Arm – This is the most common type. The filter connects directly to the shower arm/head via the existing connector.
• Inline – The filter attaches inline along the shower pipe itself, usually high up near the shower arm. Requires no showerhead removal.
• At the Pipe Inlet – Installs at the main water inlet prior to entering the house. Filters all water entering home.

Most DIY’ers prefer the shower arm placement for simplicity. Inline and inlet filters are best left to experienced plumbers.

Gather the Right Tools

Installing your new shower filter won’t require much. At a minimum you’ll need:

• Adjustable wrench
• Teflon tape
• Cloth rag

Optional extras helpful for install are:

• Basin wrench (for tight spaces)
• Plumber’s grease
• Plumber’s tape
• Pipe joint compound

Don’t be tempted to over tighten connections. Snug is sufficient. Having the right tools handy means avoiding frustration and damage.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Ready to get your new shower filter up and running? Follow these key steps:

Step 1 – Turn Off Water Supply

Begin by turning off the hot and cold water supply valves. These are usually located under the sink or near the water heater. Turning the knobs clockwise closes them.

Shutting off the water at the source prevents leakage and pressure problems during the filter installation process.

Step 2 – Remove Existing Showerhead

With the water off, unscrew the showerhead from the bottom of the shower arm by turning it counterclockwise.

Use an adjustable wrench if necessary to loosen the connection. Place a basin under the arm to catch any water still in the pipes.

Step 3 – Clean Shower Arm Threads

Inspect the now exposed shower arm threads for buildup and wrap a rag around the threads to remove any grime or old plumber’s tape.

Clean threads are essential for proper shower filter attachment and leak prevention.

Step 4 – Apply Plumber’s Tape

Wrap plumber’s tape clockwise 3-4 times around the shower arm threads.

This seals the threads to prevent leakage when the shower filter gets attached. Too little tape could lead to drips.

Step 5 – Connect Mounting Bracket

If your filter came with a separate mounting bracket, attach this piece first directly onto the shower arm.

Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the bracket. Check your model’s manual for exact instructions.

Step 6 – Attach Shower Filter

Next, screw the shower filter onto the shower arm threads and hand tighten fully.

If you have a 2 piece filter, attach the filter cartridge onto the mounting bracket or shower arm before the showerhead.

Be sure both hot and cold water filter adapters are snug. Avoid over tightening.

Step 7 – Reattach Showerhead

With the shower filter now securely installed, simply screw your existing showerhead back onto the bottom of the filter.

Again, hand tighten only. Use plumber’s tape here as well for optimal leak prevention.

Step 8 – Turn Water Back On

The final step is to turn the hot and cold water valves back on fully. Check the shower filter connections for any drips and tighten them as needed.

Let the water run for a few minutes to flush out the new shower filter. Your filtered shower is now ready to enjoy!

Troubleshooting Tips

If you follow the steps correctly, your installation should go smoothly. But here are some quick troubleshooting tips if you encounter any leaks or issues:

• More plumber’s tape or tightening connections may fix minor drips. Don’t overtighten.
• Damaged filter internal O-rings can cause flow restriction and leakage. Check for cracks and replace if needed.
• If water pressure seems low, remove, inspect, and reattach the showerhead as it may be clogged.
• Hard water mineral buildup can prevent proper threading. Soak in vinegar, then scrub clean.

Patience and checking connections methodically often resolves most shower filter install difficulties. But for complicated issues, don’t hesitate to call a plumber.

Maintenance Tips for Your Shower Filter

To keep your shower filter working optimally for as long as possible between replacements, keep these tips in mind:

• Periodically scrub the showerhead holes with an old toothbrush to prevent mineral clogging.
• Every 2-3 months, unscrew the filter cartridge and soak it in vinegar to dissolve scale buildup, then rinse.
• Replace cartridges per manufacturer recommendations, usually every 6-12 months depending on your water quality.
• When away from home for more than a week, remove the cartridge to prevent standing water issues.
• Avoid spray cleaners, bleach, and other harsh chemicals which can degrade the media.

With occasional cleaning and proper cartridge replacement as needed, a quality shower filter should provide 2-3 years of life.

Enjoy the Benefits of Filtered Shower Water

Once your shower filter installation is complete, take a moment to enjoy the benefits:

• Softer hair and skin now that chlorine and chemicals are reduced
• Less irritation for sensitive skin or conditions like eczema
• Fewer bad hair days since minerals won’t build up on strands
• Protect plumbing and appliances from scale accumulation
• Confidence in a purer, safer shower thanks to contaminant removal
• Greater peace of mind knowing your family’s exposure to chemicals has been minimized

While it takes just minutes to install a shower filter, the impacts last for months and years after. Follow these DIY steps to start experiencing the rewards filtered shower water provides today!

Frequently Asked Questions About Installing Shower Filters

Installing a shower filter is one of the easiest ways to improve your bathing experience immediately. Here are answers to some of the most common questions when it comes to shower filter systems:

What size shower filter do I need?

This depends on your existing plumbing. Most shower filters come in standard 1/2 inch or multi-function hand shower sizes. Measure your current showerhead connector and arm size before ordering.

Where is the best placement for a shower filter?

Most filters are designed to attach at the showerhead itself. This allows for simple filter cartridge changes. Inline and whole house filters are harder to access.

How often do shower filter cartridges need replacement?

Depending on your water quality, expect to change cartridges every 6-12 months. Hard water means more frequent changes. Buy replacement cartridges packs for convenience.

Why does my filtered shower water pressure seem low?

Over months of use, shower filter cartridges can become clogged with mineral scale, restricting flow. Remove and soak the cartridge in vinegar to clean.

How do I remove the old shower filter cartridge?

Cartridges twist off counterclockwise with light hand pressure. Use an adjustable wrench if needed, but avoid over tightening during re-installation.

Does my whole house water filter make a shower filter unnecessary?

Whole house filters treat all water entering your home but are less effective at filtering right before the shower. The best results come from using both systems together.

Can I install a shower filter myself or do I need a plumber?

Handy homeowners can install most standard showerhead filters in about 15-30 minutes. Use patience and proper tools. Call a pro for specialty work.

Will a shower filter improve my dry skin and hair?

Yes, by removing chlorine and chemicals that dry out skin and hair. Users see notable improvements in softness, moisture, and reduced irritation after installing a filter.

How can I prevent leaks with my new shower filter?

Leaks most often come from inadequate plumber’s tape on threads. Ensure a minimum 3-4 wraps around all threaded joints. Hand tighten only. Periodically check for drips.

What do I do if my fixed shower head won’t budge?

Fixed showerheads can become completely stuck from mineral buildup over time. Try covering with a bag and pouring vinegar around the connections to dissolve deposits before attempting removal.

Installing a shower filter is one of the simplest ways to improve the feel of your daily shower. With minimal cost and effort, these systems can make bathing healthier and more enjoyable.

Conclusion

Installing a shower filter can provide immense and immediate benefits by removing chlorine, heavy metals, minerals, and other contaminants from your bathing water supply. While the installation process may seem intimidating, it can realistically be completed by a handy homeowner in less than 30 minutes.

The key steps outlined above walk through choosing the right shower filter system, gathering the basic tools needed, and the simple installation process. With proper care and maintenance like periodic cartridge replacements and cleanings, a quality shower filter should continue improving your daily showers for years.

Filtered shower water leaves you feeling refreshed, nourished, and energized as opposed to dry and irritated skin from chemical exposure. By taking the initiative to add this simple upgrade to your bathroom, you can immediately start enjoying softer hair and skin, reduce damage and aging, and decrease exposure to toxins for both you and your family. The improvements to your bathing experience make installing a shower filter one of the smartest investments you can make for your home.