Attach New Showerhead — Install the Shower Arm Diverter
Part of project
How to Add a Handheld Shower Head Using a Shower Arm Diverter · Step 5 of 8
In this video
Unbox the new rain-style showerhead. Ensure any protective caps are removed and that the rubber washer or gasket is properly seated inside the threaded connector. Align the showerhead with the threads on the end of the newly installed shower arm and screw it on by hand in a clockwise direction until it is snug. For a final tightening, you can use a pair of pliers or an adjustable wrench, but be sure to place a soft cloth over the fitting to prevent the tool from scratching the finish. A final quarter-turn is usually sufficient.
Goal: Showerhead Installation
- Most modern showerheads have rubber gaskets that seal well with just hand-tightening, so a wrench may not be necessary.
- Do not overtighten the showerhead, as this can damage the plastic threads or crack the housing.
Used in this video
- Pliers (brand: Unknown, Tool Type: Pliers, Power Source: Manual, Material: Metal) · optional — To provide a final tightening of the showerhead onto the shower arm.
- Cleaning cloth (brand: Unknown, Material: Fabric) · optional — To protect the showerhead's finish from being scratched by the pliers.
1.3M subscribers
FAQs
How difficult is this project, and can a beginner really complete it in 2 hours?
This project is rated as beginner-friendly because it primarily involves screwing and unscrewing components and requires minimal specialized plumbing knowledge. Most DIYers can complete it within the estimated 2 hours, especially if all tools and materials are gathered beforehand. The main challenges are often ensuring a tight, leak-free seal and managing space in the shower.
What should I do if my new shower head setup leaks after installation?
If you encounter a leak, first turn off the water supply and re-tighten the connection that is leaking, ensuring not to overtighten. Often, leaks are due to insufficient plumber's tape or a missing/damaged rubber washer. Remove the connection, reapply fresh plumber's tape (3-5 wraps clockwise), ensure washers are correctly seated, and reassemble.
How important is plumber's tape, and how much should I use for a secure, leak-free connection?
Plumber's tape (Teflon tape) is crucial for creating a watertight seal on threaded pipe connections and preventing leaks. Wrap the tape clockwise around the male threads of the shower arm 3-5 times, ensuring it's snug in the threads but not excessive. This lubricates the threads for easier tightening and fills tiny gaps for a leak-proof seal.
Will adding a shower arm diverter reduce my water pressure?
Generally, adding a high-quality shower arm diverter should have a minimal impact on your overall water pressure. If you notice a significant drop, check for any debris in the diverter or shower heads, ensure all connections are tight, and verify your existing water pressure is adequate. Some older or lower-quality diverters might restrict flow slightly.
Attach New Showerhead — Install the Shower Arm Diverter
Part of project
How to Add a Handheld Shower Head Using a Shower Arm Diverter · Step 5 of 8
In this video
Unbox the new rain-style showerhead. Ensure any protective caps are removed and that the rubber washer or gasket is properly seated inside the threaded connector. Align the showerhead with the threads on the end of the newly installed shower arm and screw it on by hand in a clockwise direction until it is snug. For a final tightening, you can use a pair of pliers or an adjustable wrench, but be sure to place a soft cloth over the fitting to prevent the tool from scratching the finish. A final quarter-turn is usually sufficient.
Goal: Showerhead Installation
- Most modern showerheads have rubber gaskets that seal well with just hand-tightening, so a wrench may not be necessary.
- Do not overtighten the showerhead, as this can damage the plastic threads or crack the housing.
Used in this video
- Pliers (brand: Unknown, Tool Type: Pliers, Power Source: Manual, Material: Metal) · optional — To provide a final tightening of the showerhead onto the shower arm.
- Cleaning cloth (brand: Unknown, Material: Fabric) · optional — To protect the showerhead's finish from being scratched by the pliers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is this project, and can a beginner really complete it in 2 hours?
This project is rated as beginner-friendly because it primarily involves screwing and unscrewing components and requires minimal specialized plumbing knowledge. Most DIYers can complete it within the estimated 2 hours, especially if all tools and materials are gathered beforehand. The main challenges are often ensuring a tight, leak-free seal and managing space in the shower.
What should I do if my new shower head setup leaks after installation?
If you encounter a leak, first turn off the water supply and re-tighten the connection that is leaking, ensuring not to overtighten. Often, leaks are due to insufficient plumber's tape or a missing/damaged rubber washer. Remove the connection, reapply fresh plumber's tape (3-5 wraps clockwise), ensure washers are correctly seated, and reassemble.
How important is plumber's tape, and how much should I use for a secure, leak-free connection?
Plumber's tape (Teflon tape) is crucial for creating a watertight seal on threaded pipe connections and preventing leaks. Wrap the tape clockwise around the male threads of the shower arm 3-5 times, ensuring it's snug in the threads but not excessive. This lubricates the threads for easier tightening and fills tiny gaps for a leak-proof seal.
Will adding a shower arm diverter reduce my water pressure?
Generally, adding a high-quality shower arm diverter should have a minimal impact on your overall water pressure. If you notice a significant drop, check for any debris in the diverter or shower heads, ensure all connections are tight, and verify your existing water pressure is adequate. Some older or lower-quality diverters might restrict flow slightly.