The Best Shower Arm Extender

Standard showers are typically fitted with showerheads attached to arms that you can’t adjust. This lack of adaptability is a problem when the height or angle isn’t right for you or other family members or roommates. Showers and people come in different sizes, and if the showerhead is in the wrong spot, it can be very awkward. Taller people may even hit their heads on it — how annoying is that?

If you often knock body parts into your shower heard or have no room to hang things from your shower arm, those are other signs you may have a problem.

Shower arm extenders are an easy fix to this issue. These come in many shapes and sizes that allow you to change the style and atmosphere of your shower, in addition to making your daily shower more comfortable.

For example, you can buy arm extenders that are straight or curved. Straight ones are best when the pipes are located behind the wall above the head. S-shaped (gooseneck) shower arms are better for lower pipes. You can find decent but basic shower arm extenders or pay more for fancier models.

Differences in price will sometimes depend on the materials used in the product; stainless steel is on the lower end, and solid brass costs more. You can also choose from various finishes, like brushed nickel and oil-rubbed bronze. You may want to choose materials to enhance the look of your bathroom.

Some arm extenders can lengthen the showerheads as much as 14 inches. It’s essential to measure the shower space before shopping, so you purchase one that fits your space.

To install a new shower arm extender, loosen the current shower arm flange. This shiny, round piece connects a shower arm to the wall. Cut around its edge with a utility knife, remove it and unscrew the old shower arm.

To install the new one, wrap some plumber’s tape on the pipe threads on both ends. If it’s in good shape, slip the old flange onto the new shower arm and screw the extender into the same pipe. Then, you can move the showerhead to the new arm.

• Some shower arm extenders come with their own flanges.
• You can find extender arms that are made specifically for rain showerheads.
• If you want to add a chlorine filter, install it between the showerhead and adjustment knob. This filter will lower the showerhead, though.
• Thin-walled brass shower arm extenders are more prone to rust than other materials.
• NPT stands for “national pipe thread.” This acronym represents a standard measurement for screw threads on pipe fittings and threaded pipes.