A leaking shower head might seem like a small annoyance (and an easy one to overlook). However, a steadily dripping shower head can waste hundreds of gallons of water each year. Aside from wasting water (and contributing to higher water bills), a leaking shower head can also indicate deeper plumbing problems.
Knowing why your shower head is leaking will help you stop it quickly and prevent future issues. Here’s how to find the cause, control it, and know when to call the professionals at Arnold & Sons Plumbing.
What Causes a Leaking Shower Head?
A shower head leak usually happens because of worn parts, buildup inside the fixture, or excess pressure in the plumbing system. Let’s look at the most common causes and how to identify them.
Worn Washers or O-Rings
Over time, the small rubber or silicone washers and O-rings that seal your shower connection can dry out or crack. When that happens, water continues to drip from the shower head even though the shower is turned off.
You can usually identify this issue if the leak comes directly from the face of the shower head or from the point where the shower arm connects.
Mineral Buildup or Hard-Water Deposits
If you live in an area with hard water, minerals like calcium and magnesium can collect inside the shower head. These deposits interfere with the internal seals and create uneven water flow, leading to leaks and reduced water pressure.
A telltale sign is a white or greenish crust forming around the spray nozzles or connection point, often paired with water spraying unevenly or sideways.
High Water Pressure or Faulty Valves
Excess water pressure stresses your shower fittings and cartridges. A faulty or worn mixing valve can also allow water to pass through even when it’s turned off.
If you notice a steady drip that lasts for minutes after turning off the shower, or if multiple fixtures in your home show similar dripping behavior, a water pressure or valve issue is likely. A plumber can confirm this quickly with a pressure gauge or valve inspection.
Loose or Corroded Fittings
A simple loose connection between the shower arm and the head can cause leaks at the joint. Corrosion, especially on older metal fixtures, can worsen the problem by eating away at the threads that create the seal.
If water appears to leak from behind the connection rather than the shower head itself, try gently tightening the head by hand. If the drip slows or stops temporarily, a loose or corroded fitting is almost certainly the cause.
Cracked Shower Head or Damaged Cartridge
Hairline cracks in plastic shower heads or worn internal cartridges can lead to small but persistent leaks.
Inspect the shower head closely under good light. If you see fine cracks, discoloration, or small beads of water forming on the housing rather than the joint, the fixture itself is likely compromised.
In some cases, the internal cartridge that controls water flow may also be worn, allowing water to escape through the head even when it’s shut off.
How to Stop a Leaking Shower Head
Some minor leaks are easy to fix with basic tools and a few minutes. Here’s how to handle it safely:
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Shut off the water supply:
Prevent further dripping and make sure the repair area is dry.
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Remove the shower head:
Use an adjustable wrench wrapped in a cloth to protect the finish.
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Inspect and clean:
Look for worn washers, mineral buildup, or debris blocking the flow. Soak parts in white vinegar to dissolve deposits.
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Replace damaged components:
New washers or O-rings are inexpensive and can stop most leaks.
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Reinstall and test:
Re-attach the head securely but avoid overtightening.
If your shower continues leaking after cleaning and replacing parts, the issue may be inside the valve assembly or behind the wall. That’s when it’s time to call in a licensed plumber.
How to Prevent Future Shower Head Leaks
Here are a few steps you can take to minimize your chances of having to deal with another drip in the future:
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Clean regularly:
Remove the shower head every few months and soak it in vinegar to clear mineral buildup.
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Check your water pressure:
Ideally, it should stay below 60 psi; high pressure shortens the life of your plumbing fixtures.
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Replace washers annually:
A few dollars in new washers can prevent costly water waste.
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Consider a water softener:
If you notice frequent mineral deposits, a softening system helps protect your entire plumbing system.
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Upgrade aging fixtures:
Modern shower heads are designed to resist buildup and use water more efficiently.
If you’re ready to refresh your bathroom or upgrade your shower for better performance, explore our Showers & Bathtubs page for professional installation options.
Get Help from the Plumbing Pros at Arnold & Sons
A small leak can quickly turn into wasted water, higher utility bills, or hidden damage behind your walls. When DIY fixes don’t solve the problem, the team at Arnold & Sons Plumbing is here to help.
Our licensed plumbers serve Peoria, East Peoria, and surrounding communities with fast, reliable shower head repair and replacement. We offer 24-hour scheduling, upfront pricing, and service backed by our core values: Appreciation, Responsibility, Nurture, Optimism, Leadership, and Dedication.
Don’t let a dripping shower cost you money and peace of mind. Call Arnold & Sons Plumbing today or request your appointment online for professional shower head leak repair done right the first time.
