How to Fix a Leaky Shower Head
A leaky shower head --- unless it's resulting in water damage to structures outside the shower stall --- is generally more of a nuisance than a serious problem. But since water can behave in unexpected ways (sometimes traveling along routes that could lead to troubles in the future) it's best to address these kinds of minor plumbing issues sooner rather than later. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Adjustable wrenches (2) Stiff brush Dry rag Teflon tape (available at most hardware store) New washer (optional)
Instructions
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1
Tighten the shower head slightly where it is threaded onto the water supply pipe that comes through the shower wall. There are probably flats on the shower head to accommodate a wrench for this purpose. Avoid too much twisting of the supply pipe by holding firmly with your other hand or with a wrench if there are flats provided on the pipe.
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2
Test for leakage. If simply tightening it didn't fix the leak, unscrew the shower head from where it is threaded onto the pipe that comes through the shower wall. Dry with a rag and clean both sets of threads of any debris with an old toothbrush or similar stiff utility brush.
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3
Make certain the threads are dry, then wrap Teflon tape around the threads where the shower head screws on, making certain to wrap in a clockwise direction. Now thread the shower head back onto the newly wrapped threads and tighten until snug but not overly tight.
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Turn the water on and test your work. Your leak should be fixed.
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Tips & Warnings
Sometimes the shower head will have a rubber washer inside, below its threaded section. This is designed to seal and prevent leakage but it may be worn or rotted. Replace this washer if the Teflon tape alone doesn't solve the problem. Take the old washer to your local hardware supply to match the size.
Old plumbing can be problematic. Sometimes the simplest task involving one part can affect another pipe or fixture down the line that's corroded and not leaking but "waiting" for the slightest disturbance. If your existing plumbing isn't relatively new --- or if you have any concerns that you might cause more problems than you solve --- you should consult a plumber before attempting any repairs.
