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Install New Shower Arm and Head — Remove the Old Shower Head

Beginner45 mins

Part of project

Delta Shower Head Installation: A Step-by-Step Guide · Step 2 of 5

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In this video

Unscrew and remove the old shower arm from the wall fitting. Wrap the threads of the new shower arm with Teflon tape in a clockwise direction. Screw the new arm into the wall and tighten it. Slide the decorative escutcheon plate flush against the tile. Wrap the exposed threads of the new arm with Teflon tape. Screw the new showerhead onto the arm and hand-tighten. Use pliers with a cloth to give it a final gentle turn to secure it and prevent scratching the finish. Peel off any excess Teflon tape for a clean look.

Goal: Install Shower Head

  • Wrap Teflon tape 3-4 times around the threads in a clockwise direction. This ensures the tape tightens as you screw the fitting on.

Used in this video

  • Channel-Lock Pliers (Tool Type: Plumbing Tools, Jaw Type: Groove Joint)Gripping and turning the shower arm and showerhead.
  • Cleaning Cloth (Tool Type: Hand tools)Protecting the chrome finish from scratches when using pliers.
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Lowe's Home Improvement

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FAQs

What specific tools and materials are essential for installing a Delta shower head, besides the new head itself?

You'll definitely need an adjustable wrench to remove the old head and tighten the new one. Crucially, have Teflon tape on hand for a watertight seal, and a soft cloth (like a microfiber cleaning cloth) to protect the finish of your new Delta shower head when using the wrench.

What is the most important safety precaution to take before beginning to replace my Delta shower head?

The absolute most critical step is to turn off the main water supply to your shower or, if possible, to your entire home. This prevents unexpected water sprays or potential flooding once you start removing the old shower head from the arm.

My newly installed Delta shower head is leaking around the connection point. What's the first thing I should check?

A leak usually indicates an issue with the seal. First, ensure you applied enough Teflon tape (typically 3-5 wraps clockwise) and that it's seated properly. Then, gently tighten the connection further with your adjustable wrench, making sure to protect the finish with a cloth.

The project mentions 45 minutes for a beginner. Is this realistic for someone who has never installed a shower head before?

Yes, 45 minutes is a realistic estimate for a beginner, assuming you have all your tools ready and follow the steps. Most of the time is spent carefully removing the old head and ensuring a good, leak-free seal with the new one. Don't rush applying the Teflon tape.

Transcript
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as well as the original two holes for that two-handle shower valve. Whenever I'm installing a shower head that does not have a gasket in it, I like to wrap the Teflon tape a little past the thread so I can peel it off and make it look nice.

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.