Hearing the monotonous drip-drip of a leaking shower head is one of the most annoying sounds. Not only is it irritating, but it is also costing you money on your water bill and gas bill if it’s the hot tap that’s leaking. Also, a dripping shower head can lead to mould in your bathroom if it never gets that chance to dry out.
But before you replace your entire shower, you can try a few things to fix the drip without costing the earth. There are four main reasons your shower head leaks and four solutions to fix the issue. This article will explain why your shower head leaks and how to fix it for a longer-lasting shower.
Table of contents
- Why does my shower head drip?
- How to fix a dripping shower head
Why does my shower head drip?
Before we get into the causes of your leaking shower head, always remember that showers drip momentarily after you turn off your shower. This is due to water remaining in the shower pipes and head once you turn it off. This water needs to escape from the system and is a common occurrence, so it shouldn’t be a cause for concern. You should follow the steps below when the shower head drips continuously for a longer period.
There are four reasons why your shower head could be dripping.
- Limescale build-up: If you’re in a hard water area, a build-up of limescale, debris or sediment in your shower head and neck could be causing it to drip.
- Worn washer: Rubber washers wear out over time. If the rubber washer between the head and neck is worn and causes the drip, it will need to be replaced.
- Worn valve: The shower valve can also wear. If this is the cause of the drip, you must replace it.
- High water pressure: If you have high water pressure, it can also cause your shower to leak.
How to fix a dripping shower head
Follow these six easy steps and, using a process of elimination, find the cause of the leak and fix it.
1. Switch off your mains water supply.
Before you start unscrewing your shower, switch off your mains water supply to your home using the stopco*ck. Remember, water will still be in the pipes, so keep a few spare towels and buckets to hand to mop any water splashes.
2. Clean your shower head.
Once the water supply is off, unscrew your shower head and inspect the head and neck for limescale build-up. It’s important to thoroughly clean your shower faucet to ensure there isn’t a build-up of dirt and debris clogging the shower nozzles. If you can see a blockage, you need to clean the limescale. Here’s how to clean your shower head free of limescale.
- Boil a solution of 50% water and 50% white vinegar. Once boiled, leave the shower head to soak in the solution for 20-30 minutes straight.
- Scrub any remaining sediment inside and out with an old toothbrush and rinse.
- Alternatively, you can also use spray-on limescale-dissolving products that you can find in any supermarket. Follow the instructions on the packet.
Once the shower head, neck and hose are free of limescale, reassemble the shower head, turn on your water supply and turn on the shower for a few minutes. Turn the shower off and check if the drip has stopped. If not, move on to the next step.
Regular cleaning will help prevent leaks and extend the life of your new showerhead. Using a limescale remover will help prevent limescale build-up, reducing the likelihood of leaks.
3. Check the rubber washer.
The rubber washer or O-ring prevents water from leaking between the head and neck or hose joint. If it’s worn, that protection is gone and a leak forms. If this is the case, it will need replacing.
Different shower head brands will look slightly different, but all will have a collar nut. To unscrew this nut without damaging the finish, carefully unscrew it using a rag between the nut and your wrench.
Separate the shower head and arm to find the rubber washer. Remove and replace it with an exact match.
You can also use Plumber’s tape around any threads to ensure a watertight seal when reattaching the shower head.
Then turn your mains water on again and run the shower. Turn it off to check if the leak is still present. If it is, it may be an issue with the shower valve.
4. Replace the valve
If you have a single mixer valve, move on to the next step. However, if you have two separate valves in your shower, one for hot and one for cold water, you must determine which valve is malfunctioning by checking the temperature of the drip.
Ensure the mains water supply is off, and take the shower valve apart.
- Unscrew the valve or handle cap and let the excess water run out. Use towels to mop up any spillages.
- Remove the cover with a screwdriver, then unscrew the small screw inside with an Allen key.
- Remove the top handle and the chrome dress ring or cover plate.
- Unscrew the remaining nut. Some water may leak out, but this is normal.
- Slide the cartridge off and replace it with a new matching cartridge.
- Put the valve back together in the same way.
Test the shower to see if the leak has stopped.
5. Add a pressure-reducing valve
If you have a high water pressure, it can sometimes cause your shower head to leak. Consider installing a pressure-reducing valve to stabilise your inlet pressure from the mains water supply. We recommend hiring a professional plumber to install one of these.
6. Shower Replacement
Will replacing the shower head make it stop dripping?
If you have tried all four of these methods and your shower head is still leaking, you may have to replace your shower head or entire shower.
If you’re unsure about replacing your shower, consult a professional plumber on the best action.
Replacement showers and shower heads at Build & Plumb
Hopefully, one of these methods has solved your leaking shower head. If not, talk to a professional to determine the root cause.
If all else fails, you always have the option to replace your shower or shower head. Browse our replacement showers, shower heads and handsets at Build & Plumb for the perfect bathroom refresh.
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- Shower Buying Guide: Things to consider when buying a shower
- A Beginner’s Guide To Shower Panels: Everything You Need To Know
- The Ultimate Bathroom Trends: with Multipanel
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