How to Stop a Dripping Showerhead

A partially clogged showerhead can drip.

A dripping showerhead, a common occurrence, can be a minor annoyance. Many times the cause of a leaky head is that it is partially clogged with debris. The clog causes water to collect in the showerhead and slowly find its way to unclogged holes in the device. Over time, this causes water to drip. This problem is resolved with the right materials and know-how.

Things You'll Need

• Two pairs of slip-joint pliers
• Solvent
• Bucket
• Teflon tape

Instructions

1. Hold the stem to which the showerhead is attached with a pair of slip-joint pliers.

2. Grasp the showerhead with a second pair of slip-joint pliers and turn counterclockwise to loosen it. Remove the head by hand once it has been sufficiently loosened with the pliers.

3. Fill a bucket with a solvent to a depth that will totally submerge the showerhead.

4. Place the showerhead in the bucket of solvent and soak it overnight to loosen debris and grime.

5. Rinse the showerhead thoroughly with hot water after removing it from the solvent.

6. Wrap Teflon tape around the threads on the stem and replace the showerhead, using the two pairs of slip-joint pliers.