If your shower isn‘t performing like it used to, replacing the shower arm is an easy and affordable DIY fix that can restore strong water pressure and coverage. With a few basic tools and the right know-how, removing and installing a new shower arm is a project any home DIY warrior can tackle in about an hour.
This comprehensive guide takes you through every step, sharing tips and tricks from my many years as a home renovation specialist, so you can upgrade your shower with the latest fixtures. A properly functioning shower is key for starting the day refreshed!
Why Should I Replace My Shower Arm?
Over time, mineral deposits and corrosion can build up inside a shower arm, restricting water flow. The result is uneven spray and water dripping sadly out of the showerhead. Other signs that your shower arm needs replacing include:
- Spray leaking out of joints
- Wobbly or loose arm movement
- Cracks or damage on the arm
- Low shower pressure
- Very old shower arm and piping
The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that replacing a faulty showerhead and arm can save the average household 2,700 gallons of water per year. Plus you‘ll reduce energy costs by using less hot water.
What Tools Do I Need?
Replacing a shower arm requires just a few basic tools you may already have:
- Adjustable wrench or pliers
- Teflon tape
- Pipe joint compound or sealant
- Rag and scrub brush
- Flashlight
- Safety goggles
Avoid tools like saws, hammers, or power drills that could damage the connections. Investing $15-20 in quality sealant and a Jupiter wrench provides a lifetime of use for plumbing projects.
I recommend keeping spare washers and gaskets on hand so you can replace these during shower arm installation for a watertight seal.
Shutting Off the Water Supply
Before any work, locating the shut off valve for the shower and turning off the water is crucial. Nothing worse than a mini flood from a disconnected pipe! Most shut off valves are found under the sink or behind an access panel.
Turn the valve clockwise until it won‘t turn further. Test by briefly turning on the shower – no water should come out. You may need an adjustable wrench to loosen a stuck valve.
Once the water is fully off, place a towel under the connections to catch drips. Safety first!
Removing the Existing Shower Arm
With the water off, it‘s time to detach the showerhead and unscrew the old shower arm. Using your adjustable wrench or pliers, turn the arm counterclockwise to loosen it. Applying upward pressure while unscrewing can help free a stubborn connection.
Unscrewing the old shower arm with pliers
Some mineral deposit buildup may need to be chiseled away with a blade to separate the arm. Once fully loosened, slide the arm out of the mounting bracket on the wall.
Check any washers or gaskets around the connections and remove them. We‘ll replace these during installation of the new arm for optimal sealing.
Prep the Mounting Point
Before installing the replacement, take a minute to clean the shower arm‘s mounting point area. Buildup here can prevent the new arm from seating flush to the wall.
Wipe away any grime or old plumber‘s putty with a rag. For stubborn deposits around the threads, use a wire scrub brush. Avoid scoring or scratching the pipe surface.
The mounting area should now be clean and ready for the new shower arm.
Measure Twice, Buy Once
To select the correct replacement, you‘ll need to measure the shower arm that was just removed. Make note of:
- Length – Standard lengths range from 6 to 12 inches
- Diameter – Typically 1/2 inch diameter
- Angle – Straight, 90 degree elbow, or gooseneck
- Threading – 1/2 inch NPT is most common
Also inspect the condition of the mounting bracket on the wall. If damaged, this will need replacing as well.
Bring the old shower arm with you to the hardware store when shopping for the new one. This allows directly test fitting parts to match the existing connections.
Choosing the Best Shower Arm
Once you have the measurements, it‘s time to pick out the new shower arm. Considerations include:
- Material – Brass and stainless steel are durable options
- Finish – Chrome, brushed nickel, bronze, etc to match décor
- Adjustability – Extendable arms allow tweaking angle and reach
| Shower Arm Types | Features |
|---|---|
| Straight | Simple, affordable option |
| Gooseneck | Adjustable angle, moves showerhead |
| Square Design | Contemporary square aesthetic |
| Rainfall | Long lateral arm for wider spray area |
An adjustable shower arm is useful if you need to fine tune the position of the showerhead. This style can be lengthened or shortened as needed after installation.
Spending a bit more for solid brass or stainless steel ensures a shower arm that resists rust and mineral buildup. The finish coating also lasts much longer than cheaper chromed plastic models.
Prepare the New Shower Arm
To prevent leaks, it‘s vital to properly prepare the threads on the new shower arm before installing it. I recommend using Teflon tape on the threads. When wrapped clockwise around the threads, the tape seals any small gaps.
Alternatively, apply a liquid pipe thread sealant or joint compound to the threads. These fill small voids in the threading. Use sparingly to avoid mess.
Wrapping plumber‘s tape around shower arm threads
Either way, take your time to fully wrap threads on both ends of the new shower arm. Leaks here are the #1 issue if preparation is rushed.
Install the New Shower Arm
Once prepped, the new shower arm can be installed. Place a towel under the connections to catch drips just in case. A flashlight aimed at the mounting bracket is also helpful.
Start by threading the new arm clockwise into the bracket in the wall. Tighten using your wrench, but be careful not to over tighten or you may crack the finished wall surface. Turn until fully snug and straight out from the wall.
Next, attach the showerhead by threading it onto the new arm‘s end. The head should point up so water sprays down on you. Again, firmly tighten with your wrench.
Aim to orient the showerhead how it will be used. Keep a rag nearby to quickly wipe up any drips or spills during the process.
Turn Water Supply Back On
The moment of truth! It‘s time to turn the water supply valve back on slowly. As water begins flowing into the shower arm, check carefully for any drips or leaks around the joints.
Give the shower arm a firm tug to verify it feels snugly mounted into the wall bracket. If either connection drips, tighten further with your wrench.
Finally, turn on the shower to full pressure. Congrats, we‘re in the home stretch! Do a final check that all is working properly and make any angle adjustments.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter any problems along the way, here are tips to get back on track:
- Leaky joints – Add more pipe tape/sealant and tighten with wrench
- Loose connections – Tighten wall mount and/or showerhead
- Poor water pressure – Check for kinks or blockages in arm
- Crooked arm – Realign wall bracket; use shims to stabilize
- Arm corrosion – Upgrade to brass or stainless steel
Don‘t be discouraged by minor setbacks! With some adjustments and sealant, the new shower arm will be fixed in no time.
Maintaining Your Replacement Shower Arm
A few steps will keep that shiny new shower arm working great for years:
- Periodically inspect for leaks and tighten joints if needed
- Remove showerhead and clean out arm to prevent clogs
- Consider using a water softener to reduce mineral buildup
- Re-apply pipe sealant at joints to maintain watertight seal
Catching small issues early prevents more headaches down the road.
Cost Savings of DIY vs Hiring a Plumber
One major perk of DIY is the money it saves versus calling a professional. Let‘s break this down:
- Plumber service fee: $75 – $150 per hour
- Cost of replacement shower arm: $15 – $60
- DIY time investment: 1 hour
So for about $100 in supplies and some elbow grease, an average homeowner can save $125 – $200+ on labor by replacing their own shower arm.
The satisfaction of successfully completing the project yourself is a bonus!
In Closing
I hope this guide gives you the knowledge and confidence to tackle swapping out an old shower arm for a new one. The ability to handle small upgrades like this yourself will serve you well as a homeowner. Just take it slow, use quality parts, and don‘t be afraid to ask for help.
After some practice, you may even start to enjoy getting your hands dirty with DIY plumbing. Let me know if you have any other questions – I‘m always happy to help a friend fix up their home!
