Plumbing

How to Fix a Leaking Showerhead

A showerhead can drip from its threaded connection, an internal washer, or simply from water left inside after the shower is turned off. If water keeps coming from the spray holes for a long time with the control off, the shower valve may be the cause rather than the head itself.

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A showerhead can drip from its threaded connection, an internal washer, or simply from water left inside after the shower is turned off. If water keeps coming from the spray holes for a long time with the control off, the shower valve may be the cause rather than the head itself.

Separate residual drainage from a continuous drip

After shutoff, a large showerhead may drain for a while. If the dripping slows and stops, that can be normal; if it continues at a steady rate much later, investigate the water supply or valve.

If it leaks at the threads, reseal the connection

Turn off the shower, unscrew the head, and clean away old tape or sealant. Apply compatible thread tape in the correct direction if the manufacturer allows it and tighten without twisting the wall arm excessively.

A damaged washer inside the head may be replaceable

If the model uses an accessible gasket or washer, check for hardening, cuts, or distortion. Replace it with the correct part and avoid stacking mismatched washers that can misalign the assembly.

Dripping from the spray holes with the valve off points upstream

If the head and threaded joint are dry but water continues from the nozzles, the valve cartridge or seat may not be closing. That is a different repair and may require shutting off water; do not force the handle harder to stop it.

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