How to Install a Shower Filter: Step-by-Step Guide

Installing a shower filter is one of the easiest home improvements you can make — no plumber, no tools beyond a pair of pliers, and it takes under 5 minutes. Here’s exactly how to do it.

Not sure which shower filter to choose? See our Shower Filters Guide or browse our Sprite shower filter range.

What You’ll Need

• Your new shower filter
• Plumber’s tape (Teflon tape) — usually included
• Adjustable pliers (optional — hand-tight is usually sufficient)
• A bucket or towel for any drips

Step-by-Step Installation

Step 1: Remove Your Existing Showerhead

Turn off the water. Using pliers (wrap the jaws with a cloth to protect the finish), unscrew the showerhead from the shower arm by turning anticlockwise. Set the showerhead aside — you’ll reattach it to the filter in Step 5.

Step 2: Wrap the Shower Arm Threads with Plumber’s Tape

Wrap 2–3 layers of plumber’s tape clockwise around the male threads of the shower arm. This creates a watertight seal and prevents leaks. Don’t skip this step.

Step 3: Attach the Shower Filter to the Shower Arm

Thread the shower filter onto the shower arm by hand, turning clockwise. Hand-tight is usually enough — if the filter has a hex nut, use pliers to snug it up a quarter turn. Don’t overtighten.

Step 4: Flush the Filter

Before attaching your showerhead, turn on the cold water and let it run through the filter for 30–60 seconds. You may see slightly discoloured water initially — this is normal carbon residue from the new cartridge and is harmless. Run until the water runs clear.

Step 5: Reattach Your Showerhead

Wrap the filter’s outlet threads with plumber’s tape, then thread your showerhead onto the filter clockwise. Hand-tight is fine. Turn on the water and check for leaks around both connections. If dripping, snug up slightly with pliers.

Step 6: Enjoy Filtered Shower Water

That’s it. Your shower now delivers chlorine-reduced, filtered water. Most people notice softer skin and less hair dryness within the first week.

Benefits of Filtered Shower Water

• Softer skin — chlorine strips natural oils; removing it lets your skin retain moisture
• Healthier hair — less dryness, less frizz, and colour-treated hair lasts longer
• Less scalp irritation — particularly beneficial for eczema, psoriasis, and sensitive skin
• Cleaner shower glass — fewer chemical deposits mean less scrubbing
• Better air quality in the bathroom — less chlorine volatilising into steam

When to Replace the Cartridge

Most Sprite shower filter cartridges last 3–6 months depending on household size and water quality. Signs it’s time: returning skin dryness, reduced flow, or visible discolouration. Browse our replacement cartridge range for compatible Sprite cartridges.

Frequently Asked Questions