There’s nothing more frustrating than the constant drip-drip-drip of a leaking shower head. Not only is it a nuisance, but it can also waste hundreds of litres of water over time – impacting your water bill and the environment. Thankfully, many cases of a leaking shower head can be fixed with a few simple tools and a bit of know-how.
At Plumbform, we’re fully committed to helping Brisbane households keep their plumbing in top shape. So with that in mind, here’s a handy guide to help you understand how to fix a leaking shower head – and when it might be best to call in the professionals.
Some Common Causes of a Leaking Shower Head
Before you dive into repairs, it helps to understand why your shower head might be leaking in the first place. Some of the most common causes include:
- Worn or damaged washers or O-rings
- Mineral build-up (especially in hard water areas)
- Loose connections between the shower arm and shower head
- Cracks in the shower head itself
Each of these issues can lead to persistent dripping, and in some cases, even cause water to leak behind your walls – leading to more serious damage down the line.
How to Fix a Leaking Shower Head (Step-by-Step Guide)
If you’re confident with a bit of DIY, here’s how to get started:
- Step 1 – Turn off the water supply: Before doing anything else, make sure you’ve shut off the water at the mains or isolated the shower tap to avoid any unexpected sprays.
- Step 2 – Remove the shower head: Use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the shower head from the arm. Be sure to wrap a cloth around the fitting to avoid scratching the metal.
- Step 3 – Clean any build-up: Mineral deposits and grime can block water flow and cause leaks. Soak the shower head in a vinegar solution for a few hours, then scrub gently with an old toothbrush.
- Step 4 – Inspect and replace washers or O-rings: Carefully check the rubber washer inside the shower head or any O-rings. If they’re worn, cracked or missing, replace them with matching parts from your local hardware store.
- Step 5 – Apply plumber’s tape and reattach: Wrap plumber’s tape (also called Teflon tape) around the threads of the shower arm to ensure a tight seal. Then screw the shower head back on and test for leaks.
Still Leaking? Here’s When to Call a Professional
Sometimes, no matter how many washers you replace or how tightly you seal the fittings, that stubborn drip keeps coming back. This could point to deeper issues such as corroded pipes, damaged internal components, or plumbing hidden behind walls… That’s where Plumbform comes in. Our licensed and experienced team specialises in diagnosing and fixing all types of plumbing issues (leaking shower heads included!). We use the latest tools and techniques to identify the root cause, ensuring the job is done right the first time – the same goes for all your other bathroom plumbing needs, not to mention kitchen, laundry, overall water line or even gas plumbing issues).
Why Trust Plumbform?
- Fast, reliable service across Brisbane and Bayside
- Affordable, upfront pricing with no hidden surprises
- Fully licensed and insured plumbers
- 24/7 emergency plumbing services available
Get in touch today
Whether it’s a minor annoyance or a sign of something more serious, Plumbform is here to help. Don’t let a leaking shower head turn into a costly problem – get in touch with our friendly team today for prompt, professional plumbing solutions you can rely on.
