How to fix a leaking shower head

Question

Our shower head drips constantly even after you've turned the water off. It's not a huge amount but it's driving me mad. Is this something I can fix myself?

Phil · Answer

Hi Patrick first of all we need to see what type of shower we’re talking about is it one with a flex hose ?  if you can send /   publish a picture this would help but through this site as no contact to be made until purchased job 
Thank you 
Phil
Wefixit

Sergio · Answer

You have 2 options 
Change the whole shower head or change the whole shower 
But before that get a plumber in to check before any work done

Phil · Answer

Hi it is best to just replace the shower head as they are only cheap the shower head and pipe is £15 from a plumbers merchant or you might be able to get one cheaper online

Bongumusa · Answer

You can try to DIY it if you want but if you fail then give me a shout, Since the shower head drips constantly when turned off, the problem might not be the shower head itself.

The problem could be a worn-out seal or cartridge inside the shower mixer valve (the handle on the wall). The valve is failing to shut off the water completely, allowing a small amount to sneak past and drip out of the head.

John · Answer

Yes possible is 

Unscrew the shower head
And check for limescale in the filter 

Could possibly be blocked

Florin · Answer

A constant drip is often caused by a worn washer, cartridge, or valve in the shower control rather than the shower head itself. If you’re handy, turn off the water supply, remove the shower valve, and inspect or replace the cartridge/washer. Also check for limescale in the shower head and clean it with vinegar. If the drip continues after cleaning, a replacement cartridge is usually the fix. It’s a DIY job for many homeowners, but call a plumber if you’re unsure or can’t isolate the water supply.

David · Answer

I would remove the shower head and put it in a dishwasher that will clean it, put the shower head back on, fit a new rubber washer then your done

Tarik · Answer

Either your shower valve is letting by i.e. 'slightly on' giving you a constant flow, or the shower is turning off properly, and you have residual water in the riser between valve and head which is getting out slowly. If the valve is letting by you might be able to correct this by making sure you turn it off properly but if the problem persists I would recommend you get a bathroom fitter or plumber to renew the cartridge or whole valve. If it is the latter then it is just a matter of waiting for the residual water to clear. To speed it up you can uncouple the riser or hose from the valve and let this water fall out in one go. I hope this helps.

Darren · Answer

Good Morning

I can only respond to your question in general terms due to the absence of specific information, such as the type and manufacturer/model of your problematic shower valve.

Are you able to provide further information or photographs?

However, I have listed a few possible causes below.

1. No mini-expansion vessel fitted to the cold water supply on a combination boiler system when a water meter or check valve is fitted.
2. Worn cartridge  seals
3. Worn valve seating's
4. Worn/defective valve spindle /stem.

Ray · Answer

Hi

If it drips for a minute or so it’s just residual water in the pipe after the shower has been turned off. It would then stop. 

If it’s continuous like you say. It’s probably more of a problem with the shower valve not completely closing. This could be a fault with the valve.  Out could be clogged with like scale. 

Most valves can be remove and cleared/washed out. This sometimes resolves the problem. 

If it does resolve it. It a new shower or shower valve.

How to fix a leaking shower head

Follow Us

Cookies

Manage Cookies

Essential cookies

Analytics & Tracking

Advertising