How to replace a shower arm: A step-by-step guide

In 7 Easy Steps, How to Replace a Shower Head

You can replace your shower arm with the tools you already have, whether it’s due to rust, residue, or leakage. It’s time to make a change!

Start by locating everything you need.

A new shower arm. (Take your existing shower arm to the hardware shop so you can get the correct size). Continue to follow steps 1 through 4.

Step stool

Metal lubricant

Vise grips

Adjustable pipe wrench

Plumber’s tape or plumbers compound

Eye protection

Rubber gloves

Large bowl

Vinegar*

Limescale and calcium remover*

These items are only necessary if the shower arm is clogged with pipe scale or other residue.

How to Replace a Shower Arm

Once you’ve got everything you need, you can follow these simple steps to replace your shower arm.

Turn off the water supply – Start by cutting off all water flow to the bathroom. This can be done by turning off the water main. It is usually located at the connection between your plumbing system and your water supply. A shut-off valve can be found under the bathroom sink or behind removable wall panels. Are you still having trouble finding it? Find out more about how to locate the water shutoff valve.

You can remove the shower arm by removing the showerhead first. This is regardless of whether your current showerhead is being kept or if you are installing a new one. You will need to hold the shower arm steady while you tighten the bolt on the showerhead. To remove scale buildup from the showerhead, place it in a bowl of vinegar.

Clean the existing shower arm. Remove any scale, mold or mildew that may be around the shower arm. This will make it easier to remove the arm. Use either calcium and limescale cleaner or vinegar.

Remove the existing shower arm. Using your longest adjustable pipe wrench, grasp the shower arm. The wrench should be turned counterclockwise. This should be done slowly. Stop immediately if the shower arm is not moving easily. This will ensure that it doesn’t get broken. Use a metal lubricant to cover the shower arm’s junction with the wall for a few hours and then try again. After you have removed the shower arm, you will see the pipe sticking out of the wall. There is thread running around the outside.

Install your new shower arm. Wrap the threaded end on the shower pipe with a few layers plumbing tape. The threads will still be strong enough to secure the arm. You can also use pipe-joint compound to make a waterproof seal if you don’t own any plumbing tape. Next, insert the new shower arm. Turn clockwise and thread end first. Make sure the showerhead is tight and tightly twisted.

Install the showerhead again – Apply plumbing tape or plumber’s compound to the threaded end, then insert it into the new arm. Turn the showerhead clockwise to ensure it is snug. Then, turn one half-turn.

Check for leaks by turning on the water supply to the bathroom. Turn the tap on to divert water to the shower arm. Turn the showerhead or arm clockwise to seal any leaks.