Why Is My Shower Head Leaking?
A leaking shower head or dripping showerhead might seem like a small inconvenience, but over time it can waste hundreds or even thousands of gallons of water. If you have ever asked yourself, “Why is my shower head leaking?” you are not alone. Many homeowners in Puyallup and across Pierce, King, Kitsap, and Thurston Counties deal with this problem at some point.
At Bowers Plumbing & Remodel, we specialize in shower repairs and other plumbing solutions to stop leaks, save you money, and restore your shower’s performance. In this article, we will explain the most common causes of a leaky shower, how to fix them, and when to call our expert team for service.
Why a Leaking Shower Head Is a Bigger Problem Than You Think
That constant dripping sound is more than annoying. Even a slow dripping showerhead can waste gallons of water every day. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that a shower head dripping at a rate of 10 drips per minute can waste over 500 gallons annually.
Beyond the water waste, a leaking shower can:
- Increase your water bills
- Cause damage to tile, grout, and caulking
- Lead to mold growth
- Indicate bigger plumbing problems
Addressing the issue quickly with proper repairs will save you money and help maintain the integrity of your bathroom.
Common Causes of a Dripping or Leaking Shower Head
1. Worn-Out Washers or Gaskets
One of the most frequent causes of a shower head leaking is worn washers or a worn-out gasket. These small rubber or silicone pieces create a seal inside the shower arm and valve. Over time, they degrade and allow water to escape.
Solution: Replace the washers or gasket with new ones. This is a quick fix for a plumber, and it ensures a tight seal that stops the shower leaking.
2. Limescale and Mineral Buildup
If you have hard water, limescale or mineral buildup inside the shower head can interfere with water flow and keep the valve from closing fully. This can cause constant dripping even when the handle is turned off.
Solution: Remove the shower head and soak it in vinegar overnight to dissolve deposits. If the buildup is severe or has damaged internal parts, we can replace the fixture or perform deeper cleaning during a shower repair.
3. Faulty Cartridge or Handle Issues
Modern showers often use a cartridge inside the handle assembly to control water flow and temperature. When the cartridge wears out, water can pass through even when the shower is off.
Solution: Cartridge replacement requires shutting off the water and disassembling the handle, which is best handled by a professional plumber.
4. Loose Shower Arm or Damaged Connections
If the shower arm or its connections are loose, water can leak from the joint. Worn plumber’s tape or corroded threads are often the cause.
Solution: Tighten the connections, apply new plumber’s tape, and inspect for damage. If corrosion is present, replace the damaged part.
5. Valve Seat Corrosion
Over time, the valve seat can corrode, preventing the valve from sealing and causing a leaking shower head.
Solution: Our team can inspect and resurface the valve seat or replace it entirely to restore a proper seal.
Preventing a Leaky Shower in the Future
You can extend the life of your shower head and prevent leaks with a few maintenance steps:
- Clean your shower head regularly to remove mineral buildup and limescale
- Replace washers, gaskets, and seals before they fail
- Avoid excessive water pressure that can wear out parts quickly
- Schedule annual plumbing maintenance to catch problems early
Why Call Bowers Plumbing & Remodel for Shower Repairs
When you need shower repairs or any other plumbing service, our locally owned and family-operated business in Puyallup is ready to help. We provide:
- Same-day responses to most inquiries
- Skilled plumbers who can fix leaks quickly and correctly
- Honest pricing and high-integrity service
- Expertise in both shower repairs and full bathroom remodels
If your leaky shower has caused cosmetic damage, our remodeling team can restore and upgrade your bathroom with new fixtures, tile, and modern designs.
Get Your Leaking Shower Head Fixed Today
Whether your shower head is dripping due to worn-out washers, a faulty cartridge, mineral buildup, or a loose shower arm, the professionals at Bowers Plumbing & Remodel can help. We will identify the problem, complete the necessary repairs, and make sure your bathroom is functioning at its best.
Call us today for a free plumbing consultation and let us take care of your leaking shower so you can enjoy a quiet, efficient, and comfortable shower experience again.
Bowers Plumbing & Remodel
Serving Puyallup, WA and surrounding Pierce, King, Kitsap, and Thurston Counties
📞 Contact us today for expert plumbing service and shower repairs
