Nothing’s more frustrating than trying to relax in the evening only to hear the drip… drip… drip of a leaking shower head. Not only is it annoying, but it’s also wasteful just one drip per second can waste over 3,000 gallons of water a year! If you’re wondering how to stop a leaking shower head, you’re not alone. A dripping shower is one of the most common household plumbing issues, but thankfully, many of the solutions are easier than you might think.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to troubleshoot and fix the problem, when it’s time to repair a shower, and what to do when DIY doesn’t cut it.
Why Is My Shower Head Leaking?
Before you grab your toolbox, it’s good to understand why your shower is leaking in the first place. The most common causes include:
Worn washers or rubber gaskets
Limescale or debris build-up
Faulty shower valve or cartridge
Loose or corroded connections
High water pressure
Once you’ve identified the potential cause, you’ll have a better idea of how to fix it.
Step-by-Step:
How to Stop a Leaking Shower Head
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
Safety first! Start by turning off the water to your shower. This might be a local valve near the shower or your home’s main water supply. Then, turn on the shower to let any remaining water drain out.
2. Remove the Shower Head
Use an adjustable wrench to gently unscrew the shower head from the pipe. Be careful not to scratch the finish wrap a cloth around the fixture before using the wrench.
3. Check for Limescale or Debris
A common cause of a dripping shower is mineral buildup. Soak the shower head in a bowl of vinegar for a few hours, or overnight if it’s really clogged. Use a toothbrush or small brush to scrub away any residue.
4. Inspect the Rubber Washer
Look inside the shower head where it connects to the pipe. You’ll see a small rubber washer this helps form a watertight seal. If it’s cracked, worn, or hardened, it’s time for a replacement. Take it to a hardware store to find a match or buy an assorted washer kit to be safe.
5. Check the Shower Arm Threads
Inspect the threads of the shower arm (the pipe coming out of the wall). Clean them with a cloth and apply new plumber’s tape (also known as Teflon tape) by wrapping it around the threads clockwise 2–3 times. This helps prevent leaks when reattaching the shower head.
6. Reattach the Shower Head and Test
Screw the shower head back on by hand, then gently tighten it with the wrench (again, using a cloth to protect the finish). Turn the water back on and check for leaks. If it’s still dripping, the issue might be deeper within the valve.
Still Leaking? You May Need to Replace the Cartridge
If you’ve cleaned the shower head and replaced the washer, but the shower is still leaking, the problem may lie in the shower valve or cartridge. This is especially likely if the water continues dripping even when the handle is turned off.
Replacing a valve cartridge involves:
Removing the handle and trim plate
Accessing the valve inside the wall
Finding the exact replacement cartridge
Installing it properly to prevent leaks
While confident DIYers might take this on, for most people, it’s best left to a professional plumber.
Preventing Future Leaks
Once you’ve repaired the shower, here are a few ways to prevent future problems:
Clean the shower head regularly to avoid limescale buildup.
Use a water softener if you live in a hard water area.
Turn off the water gently slamming the handle can wear out the valve.
Schedule an annual plumbing check-up, especially in older homes.
When to Call a Professional
We all love a good DIY win, but some shower leaking issues are too complex for a quick fix. If you’ve tried the steps above and the shower is still dripping, the leak may be coming from behind the wall, from a cracked pipe, or a faulty mixer valve. Ignoring these signs can lead to water damage, mould, and higher water bills.
That’s when it’s time to bring in the experts.
At Plumbing Immediately, we’ve helped countless homeowners repair a shower and stop that annoying dripping shower once and for all. Our certified plumbers can quickly diagnose the problem, provide transparent pricing, and get your shower back in perfect shape.
Final Thoughts
Fixing a leaking shower head might be as simple as replacing a washer or cleaning some debris but if the drip won’t quit, there may be a more serious issue at hand. Whether you’re confident with a wrench or prefer to let the professionals handle it, knowing what causes a leak is the first step in solving it.
Still not sure how to stop a leaking shower head? Don’t worry you don’t have to go it alone. Contact Plumbing Immediately today for expert help and a leak-free bathroom you can enjoy again.
Stop the Drip Call a Professional Today!
Tried everything and your shower’s still leaking? Don’t let a small drip turn into a big problem. Our experienced plumbers are ready to diagnose and repair your shower quickly and affordably. Contact Plumbing Immediately today for fast, friendly service and peace of mind.