Shower Filter Installation Guide

What to do:

• Turn off the shower and allow any remaining water to drain
• Grip the shower head firmly and turn counterclockwise (lefty loosey)
• If it won't budge by hand, wrap a cloth around it and use an adjustable wrench or pliers
• Unscrew completely and set aside

Common Issues:

• Stuck shower head: Apply penetrating oil (WD-40) and wait 15 minutes before trying again
• Corroded threads: Use pliers with more leverage, protecting the finish with a cloth
• Won't come off: You may need to remove the entire shower arm (advanced, requires pipe wrench)

What to do:

• Inspect the exposed shower arm threads for old plumber's tape, debris, or corrosion
• Remove old plumber's tape by unwinding it counterclockwise
• Wipe threads clean with a damp cloth
• Check for any damage to the threads - they should be clean and intact

Why this matters:

Clean threads ensure a proper seal. Old tape or debris can cause leaks even with a new filter. This step takes 30 seconds and prevents 90% of leak issues.

What to do:

• Hold the end of plumber's tape against the threads
• Wrap clockwise (when looking at the pipe end) 3-4 times
• Pull slightly to stretch the tape as you wrap - it should be tight but not breaking
• Tear or cut the tape and smooth it down with your finger

Important:

• Direction matters: Wrap clockwise so it doesn't unwind when you screw on the filter
• Coverage: 3-4 wraps is ideal - too little won't seal, too much can crack plastic fittings
• Not always required: Many filters include rubber gaskets and don't need tape, but it never hurts

What to do:

• Identify the input side of the filter (usually marked "in" or with an arrow)
• Hand-thread the filter onto the shower arm clockwise (righty tighty)
• Tighten until snug - should be firm but not requiring excessive force
• Ensure the filter hangs straight down or at the intended angle

Filter Orientations:

• Inline filters: Hang vertically between arm and shower head
• Wall-mount filters: May have mounting bracket - install bracket first, then filter
• Angled filters: Position opening to face preferred direction before final tightening

What to do:

• Apply 2-3 wraps of plumber's tape to the filter's output threads
• Hand-thread your shower head onto the filter outlet
• Tighten until snug and properly oriented
• Adjust the angle of the shower head to your preference

Compatibility Check:

• Standard shower heads: Should thread on normally with 1/2" NPT threads
• Handheld showers: Connect the hose to the filter instead of the shower head
• Rain heads: Check weight limit - some large rain heads may need wall support
• Combo systems: May need a diverter valve for switching between fixed and handheld

What to do:

• Turn on the shower to full pressure (cold is fine)
• Check all connection points for drips or sprays
• Run water for 2-3 minutes to ensure stable operation
• If you see leaks, turn off water and proceed to troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Leaks:

• Drip at shower arm: Turn off water, tighten filter an additional 1/4 turn
• Spray from threads: Remove filter, add more plumber's tape, reinstall
• Leak at shower head: Tighten shower head or add tape to filter outlet
• Persistent leaks: Check rubber gaskets inside connections - may be missing or damaged

What to do:

• Run hot water through the filter for 30-60 seconds
• Water may appear cloudy or have carbon particles - this is normal
• Continue flushing until water runs clear
• Your filter is now ready to use

Why flushing matters:

New filters contain carbon dust and manufacturing residue. Flushing removes these harmless but unsightly particles and activates the filter media. This initial flush optimizes filtration performance.

First shower tips:

• Water pressure should feel normal - if reduced, filter may need additional flushing
• You may notice less chlorine smell immediately
• Hair and skin improvements typically appear within 1-2 weeks