A leaking shower head may not seem like a big deal at first, but left unresolved, it can waste thousands of gallons of water a year, lead to higher utility bills, and even point to deeper plumbing issues. If you've been searching for how to fix a leaking shower head or wondering why your shower head keeps dripping, it's important to get to the root of the problem quickly.
While some minor issues can be handled with a few basic tools, others may signal damage in your home's plumbing system that needs professional attention. At Dalmatian Plumbing in Kennesaw, we help homeowners resolve frustrating problems like shower head leaks daily.
Why Is My Shower Head Leaking?
If your shower head is leaking, there are several potential reasons why. Sometimes it's something simple, like a loose connection or a worn washer. However, in many cases, the leak may be caused by something deeper in your plumbing system, especially if your shower head keeps dripping even hours after you turn off the water.
Understanding what's causing the problem is the first step in figuring out how to stop your shower head from leaking.
Most Common Causes of a Leaky Shower Head
Worn-out rubber washers or O-rings
These small seals help prevent water from escaping. Over time, they degrade, crack, or flatten, allowing water to seep through.Mineral buildup
Hard water can leave deposits inside your shower head, restricting flow and forcing water to leak out through weak spots.Loose shower head connections
If the threads between the shower head and arm aren't sealed tightly, water can leak through the joint.High water pressure
Excess pressure puts strain on seals and valves, which may cause your shower head to start leaking or dripping persistently.Faulty or worn shower valve
If the water continues to drip after the faucet is turned off, the issue may lie in the valve behind the wall, not the shower head itself.
DIY Fixes for a Leaky Shower Head
If you're comfortable doing some light maintenance work, here are a few steps you can take to potentially stop the leak.
Step 1: Turn Off the Water
Before you do anything, shut off the water to your bathroom or home. You don't want to get soaked or cause a bigger mess while working.
Step 2: Remove and Inspect the Shower Head
Unscrew the shower head from the arm using an adjustable wrench. Wrap the wrench in a cloth to protect the finish. Look inside for debris, mineral deposits, or damage. You can soak the shower head in white vinegar for a few hours to remove buildup.
Step 3: Replace the Washer or O-Ring
Open up the base of the shower head and check for a rubber washer or O-ring. If it looks worn, cracked, or brittle, replace it with a matching one from your local hardware store.
Step 4: Seal the Threads with Teflon Tape
Before reattaching the shower head, wrap the threads of the shower arm with plumber's tape. This helps seal the connection and prevents leaks.
Step 5: Reattach and Test
Screw the shower head back on, turn the water back on, and check for any remaining drips. If the leak is gone, you're all set for now.
When DIY Fixes Aren't Enough
If you've tried these fixes and the shower head keeps dripping, you're likely dealing with a more serious issue. Persistent leaks often point to problems with the shower valve or cartridge, which regulate water flow behind the wall. These components wear out over time or get blocked by mineral deposits, and fixing them typically involves removing the faucet handle, accessing the valve, and replacing parts that are not easy to reach without the right tools.
Additionally, if your home has high water pressure or older pipes, the leak could be a symptom of a larger issue in your plumbing system. These are problems best handled by a licensed professional who can ensure the repair is done safely and correctly.
At Dalmatian Plumbing, we've seen firsthand how a leaking shower head can turn into a bigger problem when left untreated. What starts as a drip can lead to water damage behind the walls, mold growth, or ongoing plumbing inefficiencies. We're here to make sure that doesn't happen.
Here's why homeowners trust us with their plumbing issues:
We get to the root of the problem.
We not only stop the leak but also find out why it happened and ensure that it doesn't come back.We save you time and frustration.
DIY repairs can be trial and error. We get it done right the first time, with long-lasting results.We protect your home.
Improper repairs can lead to further damage or void warranties. We ensure everything meets code and is professionally installed.We're just a call away.
Our Woodstock, GA, team is prompt, courteous, and committed to solving your issue quickly, with no mess left behind.
How to Stop Your Shower from Dripping For Good
If your shower head is leaking, don't ignore it. A few drops here and there might not seem like a big deal, but they can add up quickly, both in water usage and potential repair costs. If DIY efforts haven't worked, or if you'd rather not take the risk, call the experts at Dalmatian Plumbing in Marietta.
We'll inspect the issue, walk you through what's going on, and provide a solution that's efficient and built to last.
Call Dalmatian Plumbing Today
If your shower head keeps dripping, don't wait for the problem to worsen. Whether it's a quick fix or a more complex repair, Dalmatian Plumbing is here to help.
Call us today at 678-730-6296 or fill out our online form to schedule your service.
