How to Replace a Shower Arm

In some instances, you may wish to upgrade the showerhead because its worn out or you want the finish to match the other fixtures in the bathroom; then you need to follow the easy do-it-yourself procedure recommended in this article by professionals at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Pittsburgh.

First-off, listed below are the items you need to conclude the project successfully:

• A new shower head and arm
• Screwdriver
• Channel lock pliers
• Plumbing tape
• Vinegar
• Rubber gloves
• CLR cleaning solution
• Old towel or rag
• Eye protection and a large bowl

The Showerhead removal procedure

Step 1

Shut off the water main

The water flow to the bathroom needs to be shut off, and this can be done by locating the shut off valve. In most homes, it is located under the bathroom sink or behind a wall panel.

Step 2

Remove the shower head

You need to gradually remove the shower head by gripping it with the pliers and then turn it counter clockwise.

In case the shower head is coated in scale, fill up the bowl with vinegar and soak it so that the sticky minerals will allow the shower head to be removed.

Step 3

Remove the shower arm.

Its time to unscrew the shower head, but you need to remove the scale or mould by the use of vinegar or calcium so that it could be easily removed by also turning it counter clockwise.

Step 4

Install the new shower arm

Check if the piping in the wall is galvanized, then before installing the new shower arm use your plumbing tape or the PTFE thread sealing tape to wrap the threaded end 3 or 4 times.

Put and turn the new shower arm clockwise and ensure that it is tightened strongly.

Step 5

Install the new shower head

Now that the arm is already installed, you will also need the PTFE thread sealing tape or the normal plumbing tapes and also wrap the threaded part of the shower arm with the tapes. The shower head should be reinserted by turning it clockwise until snug. You could also use an adjustable pipe wrench to get it tightened properly and make sure that the outlet is centered in the down position.

Finally

Test and make sure there are no leaks

Test-run your new shower head to check for possible leakages. In case you identify any, then the shower head needs to be reinstalled and the threads re-taped.

However, if you follow all the recommended steps in this article, you will have a new functional shower head that will match your style.

If you think that the procedure is cumbersome and you cant accomplish the task, then call professionals from Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Pittsburgh a plumber will help you out in installing the new shower head, or any type of shower plumbing and probably upgrade other fixtures in your bathroom.

For those with questions or concerns, contact us now and trained and professional customer service representatives are available to walk you through the entire process.