[3tab]

Since shower heads have straight, non-sealing threads and rely on rubber washers for sealing, I've always been curious why shower head manufacturers usually include or recommend using Teflon tape on the threads.

My best guess is it's just for lubrication so you can get the connection tight enough by hand to stop leaks and not resort to using tools that might damage the finish. It also makes removing the shower head by hand easier.

Does anyone have a different theory or know the reason?

 

[Bret86844]

I assume it's so it can be easily removed in the future. Now that shower heads are plastic it doesn't matter as much, but when you have a metal on metal connection you get corrosion over time and it can be a pain to unscrew.

 

[Bondo]

Since shower heads have straight, non-sealing threads

Ayuh,... The pipe it screws onto Is tapered,....

The teflon tape hurts nothin', why not put a piece on,..??
Last one I did, I dabbed with paste,...

 

[3tab]

Ayuh,... The pipe it screws onto Is tapered,....

The teflon tape hurts nothin', why not put a piece on,..??
Last one I did, I dabbed with paste,...

You're right. They are 1/2" NPT. I just assumed they were straight because I associate the use of rubber washers with hose threads. Are the female threads in the shower head also tapered? Using tapered and straight threads together doesn't seem kosher, so I guess they are tapered too.

Also, why are tapered threads used at all with shower heads if they are going to use rubber washers? Did older shower heads use the tapered threads for sealing without rubber washers?

 

[SeniorSitizen]

Speaking of teflon tape, I find the plastic to plastic threads of this water filter to be sticky and would like some tape of 2" width if someone has a where to purchase. Or does anyone know of a solution when installing narrow tape. 3/4" has been unsuccessful.

 

[ront02769]

Just use whatever you have and wrap it around till it covers the threads that you want covered. 2" will do nothing more. Ron

 

[ddawg16]

It makes removing the head a few years later a lot easier.

 

[TheEplumber]

Since shower heads have straight, non-sealing threads and rely on rubber washers for sealing, I've always been curious why shower head manufacturers usually include or recommend using Teflon tape on the threads.

My best guess is it's just for lubrication so you can get the connection tight enough by hand to stop leaks and not resort to using tools that might damage the finish. It also makes removing the shower head by hand easier.

Does anyone have a different theory or know the reason?

TBH, I don't recall seeing washers in most shower heads. But then, my products come from plumbing supply houses- they are not packaged like the ones you get at a box store. When a customer insists I use their products, my labor price goes up and my warranty goes down :wink2:
All my threads get tape, teflon paste, or both...

 

[Chrisathome]

I always use tape plus paste whenever I do threaded connections, it doesn't hurt to use them even if there is a rubber washer

 

[Mfite777]

Anybody active in here can answer a question? I'm new?

 

[ddawg16]

Anybody active in here can answer a question? I'm new?

Sure, but it's best to start a new thread in the right forum so as to insure it gets the correct attention.

 

[Mfite777]

Ok I did that. Thank you. Sill floor and rim joist replacement is the topic. Much appreciated?