Swap a worn or leaking shower hose for a new one, checking washers and testing for leaks before finishing.
RSH-01Check the old hose and buy the right replacementLook at where the hose connects — to the shower head at one end and to the wall outlet or riser rail at the other. Most UK showers use a standard 1/2 inch BSP female fitting at both ends, but check yours matches before buying. Measure the length you need, and pick a hose rated for your water pressure if you have a power shower or electric shower.
RSH-02Turn off the water and get set upTurn off the isolation valve for the shower if you have one, or turn off at the stopcock (usually under the kitchen sink) if not. Turn the shower control on for a few seconds to release any pressure left in the pipe, then off again. Put a towel or small bucket under the connections to catch drips.
RSH-03Disconnect the old hoseUnscrew the hose from the shower head first, turning anticlockwise. Then unscrew the other end from the wall outlet or riser rail. Both fittings should turn by hand or with light use of an adjustable spanner — don't force a stuck one, a few drops of penetrating oil left for a few minutes will help.
RSH-04Check the washersLook inside both fittings for the small rubber washer that seals the joint. If it's cracked, flattened, or missing, replace it — a worn washer is the most common cause of a leaking hose connection. Push the new washer in gently with your finger so it sits flat.
RSH-05Fit the new hoseScrew the new hose onto the wall outlet or riser rail end first, by hand, then give it a quarter turn with the spanner to snug it up. Don't overtighten — these fittings are often plastic-lined and can crack if forced. Repeat at the shower head end.
RSH-06Turn the water back on and testTurn the isolation valve or stopcock back on. Run the shower for a minute and check both connections closely for drips, feeling around the joint with a dry hand. If you see a leak, turn the water off again and give the fitting another small turn — don't overtighten to fix a leak, check the washer instead.
RSH-07Tidy upDry off the shower tray or bath and wipe down the fittings. Dispose of the old hose and washer, and put your tools away. Keep the packaging until you're sure the new hose isn't leaking after a couple of uses.
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