What Drip? A Complete Guide to Fixing Leaky Showerheads

Having a persistent leaky showerhead will not only drive you mad, but will also waste an incredible amount of water. In this guide, you will find easy steps to diagnose and repair the leak in your showerhead. You will be much more confident with these DIY fixes once you know how easy it can be!

To fix a leaking showerhead, you will need to find the source of the leak. First, tighten the connection between the showerhead and arm. Then consider replacing the washer or applying plumber's tape for a proper seal. If the showerhead is clean and still leaking, you may need to replace it entirely.

Discover the best methods for diagnosing and repairing a leaky showerhead, along with expert tips for maintaining your leak-free showerhead.

6 Steps to Fixing a Leaky Showerhead

Step 1: Understand Basic Terminology

Below is some basic temrinology that will help you when trying to fix a leak in your showerhead.

• Showerhead: A bathroom fixture that distributes water for the purpose of showering, typically mounted on a wall or ceiling.
• Shower arm: The pipe that connects the showerhead to the water supply, usually extending from the wall or ceiling.
• Plumber's tape: Also known as thread seal tape or Teflon tape, this thin, non-adhesive tape is used to create a watertight seal between threaded plumbing connections.
• Washer: A thin, flat ring made of rubber or other material, used to create a watertight seal between two connected parts in a plumbing system.
• Nozzles: The small openings on a showerhead through which water is sprayed, also referred to as spray holes or jets.

Step 2: Identify the Source of the Leak

The most important step in fixing a leaky showerhead is determining the source of the leak. Leaks can occur at the showerhead connection, from the nozzles, or within the showerhead itself. Identifying the root cause of the leak will help you focus your efforts on the parts that need attention or replacement.

1. Inspect the showerhead while it's off to see if water is dripping from the connection or nozzles.
2. Turn on the shower and observe the flow of water. If water is leaking from the connection, the issue may be a loose connection or worn-out seal. If water is spraying from the sides of the showerhead, the nozzles may be clogged or damaged.

Step 3: Tighten the Connection

A loose connection between the showerhead and the shower arm can cause water to leak. Tightening the connection may resolve the issue.

1. Use a wrench or a pair of pliers to gently tighten the showerhead by turning it clockwise. Be careful not to overtighten, as this can damage the threads (where the showerhead screws on) or the showerhead itself.
2. If the leak persists, you may need to apply plumber's tape or replace the washer.

Step 4: Apply Plumber's Tape and Replace the Washer

Plumber's tape and a new washer can help create a watertight seal between the showerhead and the shower arm. Before you begin, it is best to turn off the water supply to the shower to prevent being sprayed.

To turn off the water supply to the shower, turn the shut-off valves clockwise. These are typically found in the bathroom, often under the sink or behind an access panel near the shower or bathtub. In some cases, they might be in a basement or utility room below the bathroom. There should be separate valves for hot and cold water.

Once the water supply has been shut off, follow the steps below to ensure your showerhead has a watertight seal.

1. Remove the showerhead by turning it counterclockwise.
2. Clean the threads of the shower arm and showerhead connection, removing any debris or old plumber's tape.
3. Apply new plumber's tape to the threads of the shower arm, wrapping it clockwise around the threads.
4. If there is a washer inside the showerhead connection, replace it with a new one.
5. Reattach the showerhead by turning it clockwise onto the shower arm.

Step 5: Clean or Replace Clogged Nozzles

Clogged or damaged nozzles can cause water to spray in various directions, creating the appearance of a leak.

1. Turn off the water supply and remove the showerhead.
2. Inspect the nozzles for mineral deposits, debris, or damage. Use a toothbrush or a pin to gently clean the nozzles, removing any buildup.
3. Soak the showerhead in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water for at least an hour to dissolve mineral deposits.
4. Rinse the showerhead thoroughly and reattach it to the shower arm.

Step 6: Replace the Showerhead

If the leak persists after cleaning and tightening the connections, you may need to replace the showerhead entirely. A damaged or worn-out showerhead can cause leaks that cannot be resolved through simple maintenance.

1. Turn off the water supply to the shower and remove the old showerhead by turning it counterclockwise.
2. Clean the threads of the shower arm, removing any debris or old plumber's tape.
3. Apply new plumber's tape to the threads of the shower arm, wrapping it clockwise around the threads.
4. Attach the new showerhead by turning it clockwise onto the shower arm. Make sure the connection is secure but be careful not to overtighten.
5. Turn on the water supply and test the new showerhead for leaks.

Preventing Leaks in Your Showerhead

To prevent showerhead leaks in the future, follow these simple steps:

1. Regular Inspections: Routinely check your showerhead for signs of wear, damage, or loose connections. By catching issues early, you can prevent leaks and prolong the life of your showerhead.
2. Tighten Connections: Ensure that the showerhead is securely attached to the shower arm. If you notice any looseness or wobbling, gently tighten the connection by hand or use a wrench with a cloth wrapped around the showerhead to protect the finish.
3. Clean Nozzles: Over time, mineral deposits and debris can clog the nozzles of your showerhead, affecting water flow and potentially causing leaks. Regularly clean the nozzles using a soft brush or toothpick to remove any buildup.
4. Soak in Vinegar: To dissolve mineral deposits, remove the showerhead and soak it in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water for a few hours. This will help keep the showerhead functioning properly and prevent clogs that could lead to leaks.
5. Replace Damaged Parts: If you notice any damaged seals, gaskets, or other components, replace them as soon as possible to prevent leaks from occurring.

How Much Water Can I Save by Fixing My Leaky Showerhead?

Fixing a leaky showerhead can lead to significant water savings and reduce your utility bills. A constantly dripping showerhead can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water per year, which is enough water to fill a small swimming pool.

By addressing showerhead leaks as soon as possible, you can save water and lower your water bill. Keep in mind that water savings may vary depending on the severity of the leak and local water rates, but fixing a leaky showerhead is a simple step towards water conservation and cost savings.

You can find more helful plumbing tips (that you can do yourself) in this article.