A leaking shower head is more than just a drip – it’s a common issue we deal with regularly as plumbing professionals. That steady drip might seem minor, but over time, it wastes litres of water, drives up your water bill, and can even lead to mould or water damage around your bathroom fittings.
As professional plumbers, we’ve repaired hundreds of leaking shower heads and know exactly where things usually go wrong. With our hands-on experience, we’ve compiled a simple step-by-step guide covering what works. Whether it’s a worn washer, a loose fitting, or limescale build-up, most leaks can be fixed quickly using a few basic tools and clear instructions.
Fix Your Leaking Shower Head in 8 Quick and Easy Steps
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
Before you touch the shower head, turn off the water at the main supply. Some homes have an isolation valve near the bathroom, but if not, use the main shut-off. This stops any water from flowing while you’re working and avoids an unexpected splash or mess.
2. Unscrew the Shower Head
Try unscrewing it by hand. If it’s too tight, wrap a cloth or rag around the fitting to protect the chrome and gently use a spanner or adjustable wrench. Be careful not to apply too much force, as over-tightening can damage the fixture or scratch the finish.
3. Check for Damage Inside the Shower Head
Inspect the inside of the shower head and the pipe threads. Look for signs of corrosion, worn rubber washers, or cracked O-rings. These are common causes of leaks. If the threads look rusty or the washer is hard and brittle, it’s likely what’s causing the problem.
4. Clean Out Any Limescale or Gunk
Over time, minerals from the water can build up and block the flow or damage the seals. Fill a bowl with white vinegar and soak the shower head for 20 to 30 minutes. Use an old toothbrush or a small brush to gently scrub away any buildup, especially around the nozzles and thread.
5. Replace the Washer or O-Ring
Check the rubber washer or O-ring inside the shower head. If it looks cracked, flat, or worn out, replace it. These parts cost very little and are available at most hardware stores like Bunnings. Make sure you buy the correct size. Take the old one with you if you’re unsure.
6. Wrap the Threads with Teflon Tape
Before you screw the shower head back on, wrap the threads of the shower arm (the pipe coming out of the wall) with Teflon tape. Wrap it clockwise, around 3–4 times. This helps create a tight seal, preventing leaks from the joint.
7. Reattach the Shower Head
Screw the shower head back onto the pipe by hand. In most cases, hand-tight is enough. If you need to use a tool, do it gently and use a cloth to protect the fitting. Over-tightening can cause the shower head to crack or strip the threads.
If you’re thinking of upgrading your shower, take a look at our guide on how to replace a shower head. It will show you easy steps to install a new shower head and improve your shower experience.
8. Turn the Water Back On and Test It
Once everything’s back in place, turn the water supply back on. Run the shower and check for any drips. If the leak persists, double-check the washer and reapply the tape. Sometimes, a second wrap of Teflon tape or a new washer resolves the issue.
If you face a dripping tap, check out our guide on how to fix a leaking tap.
When to Call a Plumber
If you’ve followed the steps above and the leak persists, the problem could be more complex, such as a cracked pipe inside the wall or a faulty tap valve. In this case, it’s best to call in a licensed plumber to properly diagnose and fix the issue.
Real Case Study: Shower Head Leak Repair in Glen Waverley
Problem:
A homeowner in Glen Waverley contacted us after noticing a persistent drip from their shower head. Despite turning the taps off completely, the water kept leaking from the showerhead, creating a constant drip that was wasting water and increasing their water bills. They also noticed some damp patches forming around the bathroom fittings.
Upon inspection, it became clear that the issue was due to a worn-out rubber washer and mineral buildup inside the showerhead. This common problem was causing the water to seep through, even when the shower was turned off.
Solution:
Our expert plumber in Glen Waverley visited the property to carry out a thorough inspection and fix the problem.
- Water Supply Turned Off:
We made sure to turn off the water supply at the main valve to avoid any accidents during the repair process. - Shower Head Removal:
After carefully unscrewing the showerhead, we inspected the threads and washer. We found that the rubber washer had become brittle over time, which was the main cause of the leak. - Cleaning:
We removed any limescale and mineral deposits inside the showerhead by soaking it in white vinegar for 30 minutes. After scrubbing it clean with a toothbrush, we restored water flow without any blockage. - Washer Replacement:
We replaced the worn-out washer with a new, high-quality one, ensuring it was the correct size for the showerhead. - Reinstallation & Testing:
After reattaching the showerhead and wrapping the pipe threads with Teflon tape for a tight seal, we turned the water back on. The leak was successfully stopped, and the homeowner was delighted with the result.
Outcome:
The showerhead leak was fully resolved, and the homeowner no longer experienced water wastage or damp spots in the bathroom. The repair was completed within an hour, saving the homeowner both time and money. The overall water pressure and performance of the showerhead were restored, and the bathroom fixtures were now protected from further damage.
The customer was very happy with the swift and efficient service. They no longer had to deal with a leaking shower, and the peace of mind knowing their bathroom was properly fixed left them satisfied and grateful for the professional plumbing service.
Final Thoughts
A leaking shower head may seem like a minor issue, but if left unchecked, it can quickly escalate into a bigger problem. Fortunately, most leaks can be fixed with just a few basic tools and within half an hour. By following the simple steps outlined, you can repair your shower head and stop the drip for good.
If the leak persists or you’re unsure about the cause, it’s always best to call in a local plumber. They’ll be able to diagnose the issue properly and ensure everything is fixed correctly, saving you time and hassle in the long run.