Tools and materials needed
Adjustable wrench (or channel-lock pliers with a cloth wrap to protect the finish), Teflon tape (plumber's thread seal tape), and a cloth rag. No solder, no pipe cutting, no special skills required. Every Moen showerhead attaches to a standard 1/2-inch NPT shower arm -- the pipe protruding from the wall.
Step 1 -- remove the old showerhead
Turn the existing showerhead counterclockwise by hand to test if it is hand-tight. If not, wrap the nut (the hexagonal fitting at the wall connection) with a cloth to protect the finish and use an adjustable wrench or channel-lock pliers to loosen. Turn counterclockwise (left to loosen). Old showerheads often have mineral buildup at the connection -- soak a rag in white vinegar and wrap the connection for 20 minutes if the head resists. Once removed, wipe the shower arm threads clean with a dry cloth.
Step 2 -- apply Teflon tape
Wrap the shower arm threads (the external threads on the pipe stub coming from the wall) with Teflon tape, 2-3 wraps in a clockwise direction (matching the direction you will tighten the new showerhead). The tape fills the small gaps between threads and prevents slow drips at the connection. Teflon tape is included with most Moen showerheads -- use the full included length or approximately 6 inches from a separate roll.
Step 3 -- attach the new showerhead
Thread the Moen showerhead clockwise onto the Teflon-taped arm threads by hand until snug. Then use the adjustable wrench (with cloth protection) for one additional quarter-turn. Do not over-tighten -- acrylic and plastic-bodied showerheads crack if over-torqued. For metal-bodied Moen models (Velocity, Engage), a firm quarter-turn after hand-tight is sufficient. Turn on the water and check for drips at the connection; if present, turn off and add one more half-turn.
Magnetix slide bar installation (handheld models)
Moen's handheld kits include a slide bar (optional) for adjustable-height installation. The slide bar mounts to the wall using two screws -- Moen provides expansion anchors for tile installation. Mark the mounting holes with a pencil (use a level for the slide bar alignment), drill 3/16" holes, insert the anchors, and screw the bar bracket into the anchors. The slide bar connects to the shower arm via the included adapter. The Magnetix holder clips onto the slide bar and adjusts up and down for height preference.