How to Fix a Leaking Shower Head: Your Ultimate Guide
No one likes to see water wasted, especially when it’s from a leaking shower head. Not only does it result in a spike in your water bill, but it also could indicate underlying issues in your plumbing. Our guide on how to fix a leaking shower head will help you save water, money, and avoid potential damage to your bathroom.
1. Identify the Cause of the Leak
The first step in fixing any problem is understanding its cause. In many cases, the shower head may start leaking due to a worn-out washer or O-ring. Over time, these parts can wear down or deteriorate, leading to water leakage.
2. Gather Necessary Tools and Materials
To fix a leaking shower head, you’ll need some basic tools:
- Adjustable wrench or pliers
- Teflon tape
- Replacement washers or O-rings (depending on the cause of the leak)
3. Step-by-Step Process to Fix the Leak
- Turn off the water supply: Before beginning any repair, always ensure the water supply to the shower is turned off.
- Remove the shower head: Using an adjustable wrench or pliers, unscrew the shower head from its arm. It’s advisable to place a cloth around the shower head to avoid scratching it.
- Check and replace the washer or O-ring: Once you’ve removed the shower head, look for the washer or O-ring. If it looks worn out or damaged, replace it with a new one.
- Reapply Teflon tape: Wrap Teflon tape around the threads of the shower arm. This helps to create a watertight seal and prevents future leaks.
- Reattach the shower head: Screw the shower head back onto the arm. Make sure it’s securely tightened.
- Test for leaks: Turn the water supply back on and check to see if the leaking shower head issue has been resolved.
4. When to Seek Professional Help
While the steps outlined above will resolve most shower head leaks, sometimes the issue might be more complex. If you’ve tried the above methods and the shower head is still leaking, it might be time to seek the help of a professional plumber.
In conclusion
Learning how to fix a leaking shower head can save you money and prevent potential damage. With the right tools and a bit of knowledge, you can easily tackle this common household issue.
