There are many reasons why your shower arm might need to be replaced. It could be leaking or out of fashion.
You can replace a shower arm yourself, so you don’t need to hire a plumber. Let’s begin with the tools needed for the job.
TOOLS
Your new shower arm
Stepping stool
Vice grips
Adjustable wrench
Plumber’s Tape
Rubber gloves
A large bowl
White vinegar
STEP 1: UNSCREW THE SHOWERHEAD
To remove the shower head, first take it off. Use a pipe wrench to hold on to the existing shower arm. Next, use an adjustable wrench or pliers to loosen the showerhead nut.
Fill the large bowl with white vinegar to dissolve any scales on your showerhead. Then, hold the bowl up high so that the shower head is submerged for several minutes. This will help to loosen any minerals that have been built up and assist in the removal of the shower head.
STEP 2: CLEAN YOUR OLD SHOWER ARM
You should clean the shower arm to get rid of mildew, mold and scale. This job can be done with vinegar or limescale.
STEP 3 – REMOVE THE OLD SHOWER ARM
Shower arms are bolted to the receiver behind the wall, so it is easy to remove them. Grab your pipe wrench and slowly turn the shower arm counterclockwise.
Slowly is the keyword. Don’t rush it, or you could break it. Apply some WD-40 to the area and allow it to sit for several hours before you try again.
STEP 4: SCREW IN THE NEW SHOWER ARM
The plumber’s tape stops water from getting through the threads on your shower arm.
You should face the threaded end towards you to apply the plumber’s tape correctly. Wrap it clockwise several times. This will prevent the tape from clumping when you begin to screw it in. To tighten the arm into the pipe, turn it clockwise.
STEP 5: INSTALL THE SHOWERHEAD
Use plumber’s tape as before to secure the showerhead. Use the adjustable wrench to tighten it. You’re ready to go!
