How to Install New Jets for Shower?

Altering your bathroom can be an exciting project, and installing new shower jets is one way to elevate your shower experience into a luxurious spa-like retreat. Massaging jets that soothe muscles and help you relax can transform your bathroom into a personal oasis. If you’re a DIY enthusiast or someone looking to upgrade your bathroom, this guide will show you how to install new jets for shower correctly.

 

This article will walk you through the process step-by-step, whether installing body jets in a new shower system or retrofitting them into your existing setup.

 

Why Install Jets for Your Shower?

 

Before we dive into the installation process, let’s talk about why you should install jets for showers. Shower jets, or body sprays, offer a multitude of benefits:

1. Enhanced Shower Experience: Shower jets create a multi-directional water spray that can massage your body and help relieve muscle tension.

2. Increased Home Value: A bathroom equipped with modern features like shower jets can increase the overall value of your home.

3. Relaxation & Stress Relief: Whether for a morning pick-me-up or to unwind after a long day, jets in your shower can make every shower a calming experience.

 

Tools & Materials Needed

 

Before starting, gather the following tools and materials to ensure the installation process goes smoothly:

 

• Wrench set

• Pipe wrench

• Drill

• Shower valve (if upgrading)

• Adjustable pliers

• Silicone sealant

• Teflon tape

• Measuring tape

• Shower jets kit

 

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing New Jets for Shower

 

 

Plan the Layout of Your Shower Jets

Before you start tearing apart walls, planning is critical. Determine where you want the jets to be positioned. Typically, jets for showers are installed at three different heights:

• Lower back

• Mid-torso

• Upper back or shoulders

By strategically placing the jets, you ensure that water will hit the desired areas of your body for maximum comfort and relaxation. Also, remember that shower jets are more effective when installed in a sequence or cluster.

 

Shut Off the Water Supply

 

Safety is always the priority. Turn off the water supply to your bathroom before any installation begins. This prevents accidental flooding or leaks. If you don’t know how to turn off your water supply, locate the shutoff valve near your bathroom or the main water valve in your home.

 

Remove the Shower Wall Covering

 

In most cases, installing new jets for shower requires access behind the wall where your plumbing resides. If your bathroom has tile, you’ll need to carefully remove the section of tiles where the jets will be installed. Use a tile saw or a similar cutting tool to avoid damaging other areas. You may need to cut a precise hole for the jets for fiberglass walls.

 

Install the Shower Valve (If Necessary)

 

If your shower system can’t handle body jets, you may need to upgrade the valve. A thermostatic or pressure-balancing valve maintains consistent water temperature and pressure across all outlets, including your new jets.

 

To install the valve:

 

• Use your wrench and pipe wrench to remove the existing valve.

• Replace it with the new valve, wrapping the threads with Teflon tape for a watertight seal.

• Secure it in place with adjustable pliers.

 

Run New Pipes for the Shower Jets

 

This step is where the real work begins. You’ll need to run water lines from your main shower supply to the locations where the jets will be placed.

Here’s how to do it:

 

• Measure and Cut Pipes: Using the measurements from Step 1, cut the necessary pipe lengths to run from the shower valve to each jet location.

• Connect Pipes: Attach the pipes to the main water line using Teflon tape and ensure they’re tightly connected with a wrench to avoid leaks.

• Secure the Pipes: Use brackets to secure the pipes behind the wall so they don’t move around once the wall is closed.

 

Install the Shower Jets

 

Now comes the exciting part—actually installing the jets for the shower. Most jet systems are designed to be relatively simple to install.

 

1. Insert the Jet Body: Slide the body of each Jet through the hole you’ve made in the wall or tile.

2. Connect the Jet to the Water Line: Using a wrench, attach the water line to the back of the Jet. Ensure the connection is secure and doesn’t leak by wrapping the threads with Teflon tape.

3. Secure the Jet: Tighten the jets into place according to the manufacturer’s instructions, making sure they’re snug but not overly tight.

4. Seal Around the Jets: Use silicone sealant around the edges of each Jet to prevent water from leaking into the walls.

5. Test the System

 

Once everything is installed, it’s time to test your new shower jets. Turn the water supply back on and slowly open the shower valve. Observe the jets in action:

 

• Check for leaks at the joints or connections.

• Ensure that water pressure is consistent across all the jets.

• Verify that the jets are spraying in the intended directions.

 

If any leaks occur, turn off the water and tighten the connections or apply additional Teflon tape.

 

Close Up the Wall and Finish

 

If your shower jets are working perfectly, it’s time to close up the wall. Replace the tiles or install a new waterproof wall panel to cover the plumbing. Make sure the wall is sealed properly to prevent future water damage.

 

Maintenance Tips for Shower Jets

 

Once your new jets for shower are installed, maintaining them is key to keeping them in top condition. Here are a few simple tips to follow:

 

1. Regular Cleaning: Clean the jets regularly to avoid mineral buildup, which can block water flow.

2. Check for Leaks: Occasionally check the connections for any signs of leaks or moisture behind the walls.

3. Flush the System: Periodically flush the jets to prevent clogs and ensure they continue functioning smoothly.

 

Takeaway

 

Installing new jets for shower is a fantastic way to elevate your bathroom’s luxury and comfort. While the process might seem complex, with proper planning, the right tools, and a bit of patience, you can create a personalized spa-like experience at home. The investment not only enhances your everyday life but also adds significant value to your property.

Follow this step-by-step guide, and soon you’ll be enjoying the soothing, massaging effects of your new shower jets, giving you the ultimate shower experience.

By taking the time to install shower jets correctly, you’ll ensure they work effectively for years to come. Whether you're looking for relaxation or a home improvement project that makes a tangible difference, adding jets for shower is a worthwhile endeavor.