A leaky showerhead can be annoying and wasteful. Water dripping from the showerhead when the shower is off can cause higher utility bills, mold growth and damage to surfaces below. Thankfully, most leaking showerheads can be easily repaired with a few tools and replacement parts. This guide will walk you through the common causes of a leaking showerhead and step-by-step instructions to fix it.
What Causes a Showerhead to Leak?
There are several potential causes of a leaky showerhead:
Worn Out Showerhead Seal/Gasket
Most showerheads seal against the pipe using a rubber gasket. Over time, this gasket can become brittle and cracked, allowing water to leak out around the showerhead’s connection to the pipe. Replacing this gasket is often all that is needed to fix a leaking showerhead.
Mineral Buildup
Hard water can leave behind mineral deposits inside the showerhead that obstruct water flow. As pressure builds up, water can leak through tiny cracks or porous spots. Soaking the showerhead in vinegar can help dissolve mineral buildup.
Worn Out Valves/Washers
Inside the showerhead are valves and washers that help regulate water flow and pressure. These internal parts eventually wear out, leading to drips and leaks. Replacing valves and washers may be necessary in older showerheads.
Cracked Showerhead Body
The showerhead itself can develop cracks in the body or faceplate, allowing water to weep through gradually. Inspect the showerhead for visible cracks. If cracked, the entire showerhead unit will need replacement.
Loose Shower Arm Connection
A loose connection between the shower arm (the pipe stub out of the wall) and the showerhead ball joint can cause leaking. Tightening this connection is often an easy fix.
How to Fix a Leaking Showerhead
Follow these steps to diagnose and repair a leaking showerhead:
Step 1: Shut Off Water Supply
Begin by shutting off the water supply to the shower at the main shut off valve. This is usually located where the water line enters the home or apartment. Turning the valve clockwise will shut off the water.
Step 2: Disassemble the Showerhead
With the water off, use an adjustable wrench or pliers to loosen and unthread the showerhead from the shower arm. You may need to spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil on the connection to loosen it.
Place a rag or towel in the tub below to catch any trapped water that leaks out as you unscrew the showerhead.
Step 3: Inspect Washers, Seals and Valves
Examine the rubber washers/gaskets where the showerhead connects to the shower arm. Look for cracks, dry rot or mineral deposits. Replace any deteriorated washers.
Also check the valves and internal washers inside the showerhead. The valves can often be accessed by unscrewing a circular faceplate on the underside of the showerhead. Replace corroded or worn out valves and washers as needed.
Step 4: Clean Out Mineral Buildup
To clear out mineral deposits, soak just the faceplate/nozzle section in white vinegar overnight. Scrub deposits with an old toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly. Avoid soaking any rubber seals in vinegar as this can break them down.
Step 5: Tighten Shower Arm Connection
Place pipe tape or plumber’s putty on the shower arm threads. Then reattach the showerhead by hand tightening it back onto the shower arm. Use an adjustable wrench to tighten it further, taking care not to overtighten. The connection should be snug but not require excessive force.
Step 6: Turn Water Back On
Turn the main water supply back on slowly. Check for leaks at the shower arm connection as well as the showerhead seals. Tighten as needed to stop any drips. Replace washers or seals if leaks persist.
Step 7: Test Showerhead Spray
Turn on the shower and test the spray settings. The flow should be improved after clearing out mineral buildup. If the showerhead still drips or has uneven spray, it may need replacement.
Replacing a Showerhead
If cleaning and new washers/seals don’t stop the dripping showerhead, replacing the entire showerhead is the solution. Follow these steps:
Purchase Compatible Replacement Head
Bring the old showerhead to the hardware store when buying a new one. Make sure the connection size, spray settings, and finish match. Common thread sizes are 1/2 inch or 3/4 inch NPT or BSP. Chrome and brushed nickel finishes are most popular.
Choose a WaterSense certified showerhead for maximum water efficiency.
Remove Old Showerhead
Follow steps 1-2 above to shut off water and remove the existing showerhead. Use penetrating oil if needed to loosen the connection.
Apply Plumber’s Tape
Wrap plumber’s tape clockwise around the shower arm threads 3-4 times. This seals the connection to prevent leaks. Avoid using caulk or putty on the threads.
Install New Head and Test
Hand tighten the new showerhead onto the shower arm, then finish tightening with an adjustable wrench. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. Adjust as needed to stop any drips at the connection.
Enjoy New Showerhead
Finally, turn on the shower and test out the new showerhead’s spray settings. Enjoy the improved shower experience a quality new showerhead provides!
How to Prevent Future Leaks
To help prevent leaks from recurring, follow these tips:
- Invest in a metal or higher-end showerhead. Avoid cheap plastic models.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners. Use mild soap and water instead.
- Limit calcium and lime buildup by installing a water softener if you have hard water.
- Keep connections tight but do not overtighten. Check connections periodically.
- Lubricate o-rings and gaskets regularly with non-petroleum grease.
- Deep clean the showerhead every few months by soaking in vinegar.
- Replace washers/seals every 2-3 years or when cracking appears.
Following these preventive measures will maximize the lifespan of your new showerhead and minimize leaks.
FAQs About Fixing a Leaking Showerhead
What are the tools needed to fix a leaking showerhead?
You’ll need a few basic tools: adjustable wrenches, Teflon tape, rag, penetrating oil (optional), toothbrush, white vinegar, replacement washers or new showerhead. Avoid using pliers as they can damage the showerhead finish.
How do I remove a stuck showerhead?
Spray penetrating oil on the threads and let it soak in for 5-10 minutes. Then place a rag around the showerhead and use adjustable wrenches to loosen the connection by turning counter-clockwise. Gripping with pliers or another wrench may be needed if it’s very stuck.
What should I do if replacing the washers doesn’t stop the leak?
If new washers don’t solve the problem, inspect the valves inside the showerhead. Clean out any debris or replace worn out valves. As a last resort, replace the entire showerhead with a new unit. Leaks indicate it’s time for a new showerhead.
Why does my new showerhead still drip?
Ensure the connection is tight enough. Turn off water, remove the head, apply more plumber’s tape and tighten it further with a wrench. Turn water back on and test. Tighten as needed until the leak stops. Check that internal washers are seated correctly.
How often should I replace showerhead washers and seals?
Inspect washers and seals whenever a leak develops. But plan to proactively replace them about every 2-3 years, or when cracking appears. Regular replacement prevents bigger leaks.
Can I fix a showerhead leak without turning off the water?
It’s not recommended. You’ll get soaked trying to unthread the showerhead with water still spraying out full pressure. Always turn off the main water supply first before removing or servicing the showerhead.
How do I unscrew a showerhead without an adjustable wrench?
Channel-type pliers or an extra wrench can help grip the showerhead. Wrap the jaws with a towel to prevent marring the finish. Or use a sharkbite showerhead extractor tool which grips from the inside to unscrew.
Why does my showerhead pulsate when first turned on?
A pressure imbalance between hot and cold supply lines can cause pulsating. Let it run a few minutes to even out. If it persists, the shower cartridge likely needs replacement. Contact a plumber for cartridge replacement.
In Summary
Fixing a leaking showerhead is usually an easy DIY home repair. Inspect washers and seals for wear, clean out mineral deposits, and ensure connections are tight. Replace worn out washers, valves, and the entire showerhead if needed. Preventative maintenance will minimize annoying drips and leaks while also saving water. Investing in a quality showerhead pays dividends in longevity and performance.