How to Repair a Dripping Showerhead
A constantly dripping showerhead doesn't just waste water - it can drive you crazy.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Masking Tape
- New Showerheads
- Shower Massager
- Teflon Tape
- New O-rings
- Plumber's Wrenches
- Screwdriver Sets
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1
Unscrew the showerhead from the pipe coming out of the wall. This can be done by hand but sometimes requires a crescent wrench or large pliers. The head may be held on with a screw, which you'll have to remove.
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2
Look at the threads inside the showerhead where it screws into the pipe. There should be a small washer made of plastic or a rubber O-ring. Replace it if it looks even a little damaged or brittle.
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3
Wrap the showerhead stem with Teflon tape or pipe sealer (pipe dope) to seal the connection.
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4
Remount the showerhead on the stem. Don't overtighten. Hand-tightening should suffice.
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5
Turn the water on and off. Wait several minutes and check for drips or leaks. If the showerhead is still leaking, you may have problems with the shower's water-control valve and need to call an expert.
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1
Tips & Warnings
When working with chrome or brass fixtures, protect the surfaces from tools with a piece of leather, heavy cloth or duct tape.
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Comments
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maryanne09
Feb 20, 2009
You did a good job. 5*'s. -
WeekendWarrier
Nov 29, 2008
I have a similar problem. I replaced both the hot water and cold water stems/valves all the way back to the 'seat'. I also replaced the shower head. I still have water dripping out of the shower head. Any suggestions?
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WeekendWarrier
Nov 29, 2008
I have a similar problem. I replaced both the hot water and cold water stems/valves all the way back to the 'seat'. I also replaced the shower head. I still have water dripping out of the shower head. Any suggestions?
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jrtrage
Nov 28, 2008
the water control valve is inside the main handle for the shower You Pop Off the small circular screw cover plate, remove the set screw ,remove the entire handle and you can see the water control valve. It can be disassembled by turning the water off to the house first and then using a pair of pliers usually to unscrew it, If anything looks fishy on it that can be removed do so and bring that part to home depot,or just bring the whole valve and get a replacement . Install ,turn water main back on and enjoy silence and lower water bill.
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sdiol
Oct 07, 2008
What is the shower's water control valve, and where is it located? I have replaced my dripping shower head with two new ones and they all leak from the head of the faucet - I have used the teflon tape, and moved one of the recent purchases to another bathroom (it does not leak there), so it sounds like the $90 faucet from Kohler is not the problem, but the control valve is...
