Showerhead Dripping? You May Just Need A Tube Of Caulk

Usually a leaking showerhead does not actually need to be replaced, but fixing it is definitely in order. Don’t waste money on a plumber, here is how to handle that leak yourself.

Before beginning, lay a large towel or blanket in your bathtub to prevent possible damage should your showerhead fall into the tub and possibly chip the enamel, giving you another repair project! Next, simply unscrew the shower head from the mounting pipe coming out of the shower wall. It might be a little hard to turn at first, but once it starts it will rotate quite easily. Check to see if the holes on the showerhead are plugged. If they are, soak it in vinegar for 6 to 8 hours to remove mineral deposits.

Meanwhile, wrap a few layers of plumber’s tape, available at any hardware store, around the threads of the mounting pipe, then screw the showerhead back on. The tape will seal the threads so that water cannot leak around them and drip, which incidentally can also improve your water pressure. If your showerhead has been soaking to remove mineral deposits, wait until it’s ready and screw it back into place.

It’s a good idea to be aware of your showerhead’s condition, as one that leaks can cause a significant increase in your water bill over time. If you notice a problem, it’s usually an easy project to fix the leak and save yourself the annoyance of a drippy showerhead and/or an exorbitant water bill.