Replacing a shower arm might sound tricky, but a simple fix can improve your shower experience.
Swapping it out is easier than you think, whether it’s leaking or outdated.
Here’s everything you need to know to get your shower arm replaced quickly and easily.
Key Takeaways
- To get started, you’ll need tools like an adjustable wrench, Teflon tape, and a replacement shower arm.
- Turn off the water supply before you begin to avoid any accidents.
- Protect the shower area with towels or a bucket to catch debris.
- Loosen the old shower arm with a wrench, turning it counterclockwise to remove it.
- Clean the pipe threads to remove old tape, dirt, and debris for a proper seal.
- Wrap Teflon tape around the threads of the new shower arm to prevent leaks.
- Screw in the new arm by hand, align it and tighten it gently with a wrench.
- Check for leaks by turning on the water and adjusting, if necessary, with more tape and tightening.
- Call a professional if you encounter hidden plumbing issues and complex problems.
Tools And Materials You’ll Need To Replace A Shower Arm
To replace a shower arm, you’ll need a few essential tools.
An adjustable wrench is key for loosening the old shower arm.
You’ll also need Teflon tape (sealing tape), which helps create a watertight seal.
A pipe wrench may be necessary if the arm is stuck.
Keep a rag or towel nearby to protect your shower area.
Also, ensure you have a replacement shower arm and flange.
Using a moisturiser or oil can help loosen the shower arm if stuck.
Step-By-Step Process For Replacing A Shower Arm
Replacing a shower arm is a simple process that anyone can do with the right tools.
This guide will walk you through each step, from removing the old arm to installing the new one.
Follow these easy instructions to get your shower working like new.
1. Prepare For The Replacement
Of course, you don’t want water spraying everywhere while you work.
So, before you start, it’s important to turn off the water supply to avoid accidents.
Protect your shower area by placing a towel and bucket under the shower head to catch debris.
Also, use a rag to cover the area around the shower arm to prevent scratching the finish.
2. Remove The Old Shower Arm
To remove the old shower arm, use the adjustable wrench to loosen it.
Turn the arm counterclockwise to unscrew it.
If stuck, you can use a pipe wrench or moisturising oil to loosen rust.
Let the oil sit for a few minutes before trying again.
Once it’s loose, remove the old arm carefully.
3. Clean The Pipe Threads
Before installing the new shower arm, it’s important to clean the pipe threads.
This ensures a good, tight seal.
Use a rag to remove old sealing tape, dirt, and debris from the threads.
A clean surface will help the new shower arm fit properly and prevent leaks.
4. Install The New Shower Arm
Start by wrapping sealing tape around the threads of the new shower arm.
This tape helps create a leak-free seal.
Hand screw the new shower arm into place, making sure it is aligned correctly.
Use the adjustable wrench to tighten the arm.
Be careful not to over-tighten, as this could damage the threads.
Also, properly align the flange for a neat and finished look.
5. Testing The New Shower Arm
Once the new arm is installed, turn on the water to check for leaks.
Turn off the water and tighten the arm if you notice any leaks.
You may need to add more sealing tape to the threads and try again if that doesn’t work.
Confirm everything is sealed properly before using the shower.
3 Common Mistakes To Avoid
When replacing a shower arm, it’s important to avoid common mistakes.
These simple errors can cause leaks and damage, making the job harder in the long run.
1. Over-Tightening
Tightening the shower arm too much can damage the threads.
This makes it harder to install and remove the arm in the future.
2. Skipping Teflon Tape
If you don’t use Teflon tape, you might get leaks.
The tape helps seal the threads and prevent water from leaking out.
3. Ignoring Thread Cleanliness
If the threads are dirty, the new arm won’t seal properly.
Always clean the threads before installing the new shower arm.
When To Call A Professional
Sometimes, replacing a shower arm can be more difficult than it seems.
Call a professional if you see hidden plumbing problems, like hard-to-reach pipes and unseen damage.
These problems can make the job more complicated than expected.
Hiring a professional plumber has several benefits.
They have the right tools and experience to handle tricky installations.
Also, they can fix any hidden issues that appear during the job.
An expert can ensure the work is done properly.
This helps prevent future problems and keeps your shower working safely.
Contact us at OP Plumbing Hub for high-quality services.
Conclusion
This article is a guide to replacing a shower arm effectively.
It is simple with the right tools and steps.
Avoid common mistakes like over-tightening and skipping Teflon tape.
Don’t hesitate to call a professional if the job gets too tricky. Contact us at OP Plumbing Hub for expert services.