Skip to main content

Remove Old Showerhead and Clean Threads — Clean Shower Arm Threads

Beginner2 hours

Part of project

How to Add a Handheld Shower Head Using a Shower Arm Diverter · Step 3 of 8

Helpful?

In this video

To remove the existing showerhead, wrap a paper towel around its base to protect the finish. Use the slip-joint pliers to grip the base and turn it counter-clockwise (lefty-loosey). Once it's loose, you can finish unscrewing it by hand. After removing it, clean any old thread seal tape or debris from the shower arm threads.

Goal: Remove Old Showerhead

  • Using a paper towel or cloth between the pliers and the fixture prevents scratching the chrome.

Used in this video

  • Slip-joint pliers (Tool Type: Pliers, Power Source: Manual)Loosening the old showerhead.
  • Paper towels (Tool Type: Cleaning supplies, Material: Fabric/Paper)Protecting the fixture's finish.
4.1K views85 minutes
Lowe's Home Improvement

1.3M subscribers

View Channel

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.

Transcript
Hide

I put the link in the comments below if you want to purchase this one. To remove the old shower head, use your pliers with some paper towel and just turn it counter clockwise. And once it starts moving, you can use your hand and turn it slowly. Once the shower head is off, you can clean it up and remove the remaining thread seal tape.

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.