Is my rain-shower head too heavy for simple PVC connection?

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Is my rain-shower head too heavy for simple PVC connection?
Author: JFrancis9 (FL) I am installing a 8" grohe rain shower head on a 15" extension from the wall into a simple PVC nipple to the supply line with two screws connecting that line to a stud. It seems very heavy - will it hold? Or am I going to have to install a bar to the ceiling to support it?
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Re: Is my rain-shower head too heavy for simple PVC connection?

Author: KCRoto (MO)

I wouldn't trust it. I am of the opinion that anyone that doesn't use a drop ear elbow mounted to something solid … well, let's just say my opinion of cpvc isn't very nice. It would be in your best interest to not keep the pvc threaded connection in the wall at all. A slight over tightening can split the fitting, the torque applied by the shower head can bust the socket of the plastic female adapter, or even break the pipe at the elbow. Replacing the pipe in the wall would be best, adding a support to carry the weight of the assembly would be the other option.

Re: Is my rain-shower head too heavy for simple PVC connection?
Author: packy (MA) i would use a support to the ceiling no matter what kind of nipple is there.
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Re: Is my rain-shower head too heavy for simple PVC connection?
Author: m & m (MD) Why is the nipple there in the first place? Can't it be removed and the shower arm threaded directly into the earred ell?
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Re: Is my rain-shower head too heavy for simple PVC connection?
Author: hj (AZ) Your description about how the connection would be made is too vague to give an answer, but PVC, (or CPVC), would be to brittle to support it.
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Re: Is my rain-shower head too heavy for simple PVC connection?
Author: mr leak (CA) You should never install thread metal male fittings into female plastic treaded fittings as the female fitting is not strong enough to prevent splitting of the plastic
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