Who doesn't want a nice, steady shower flow? However, if water continues to trickle from the showerhead long after the shower has been turned off, you have a problem. In addition to the disagreeable sound of water leaking in your bathroom, a leaky showerhead can waste water and increase your water bill.

If you have a leaking showerhead in your home, consider the following five possible causes. Once the problem has been identified, you can determine whether it is more prudent to repair or replace the showerhead.

1. Obstructed showerhead hole

The showerhead's holes might become clogged with mineral deposits over time (especially if you have hard water). If the water cannot pass through the holes, it must leak from the faceplate or the bottom of the pipe.

The solution to this problem is rather simple. Fill a plastic bag with vinegar, place it around the showerhead (so that the head is submerged in vinegar), and secure the bag so that it may sit for approximately 12 hours. Vinegar should dissolve the mineral deposits. Use a tiny brush to eliminate any lingering residues. Turn on the shower and ensure that water flows freely from all of the showerhead holes.

2. Deteriorating rubber seals

Rubber O-rings and washers are meant to create waterproof connections within the showerhead. It is normal for these rubber components to degrade or crack, allowing water to leak through where it shouldn't.

The remedy is to remove and disassemble the showerhead to locate and replace the worn-looking rubber seals. Bring old parts to a home improvement or plumbing supply business in order to obtain the correct replacement size.

3. Badly functioning handles

Even though the showerhead is the source of the leaking water, the problem may lie within the shower handles. Specifically, if you have compression faucets with separate cold and hot knobs, the washer seals below the handles may deteriorate, allowing water to move up and out of the showerhead, even if you believe the water is off.

The remedy is to alternately turn on and off the hot and cold faucets to discover which side is causing the leak. Then, remove the handle in order to replace the washer seal.

4. Inoperative diverter valve

When water is diverted from the bathtub faucet to the showerhead, the diverter valve is activated. This valve, like other components, can degrade or become clogged with mineral deposits over time. Depending on the diverter valve's condition, it can be cleaned or replaced.

This solution is a bit more involved. To begin, you must turn off the water supply. Then, you must remove the faucet handle to gain access to the diverter valve. It may be difficult to unscrew if minerals have accumulated. However, once it has been removed, it can be cleaned with a little wire brush and vinegar. If the valve appears to be damaged, it must be replaced.

5. Defective cartridge-valve

The cartridge valve of a faucet controls the water flow and temperature. If it is old and worn, it may allow unnecessary water to flow up to the showerhead. This indicates that it must be replaced.

Similar to the diverter valve, gaining access to the cartridge is more difficult than some of the other techniques we have discussed. To reach the cartridge, the shower faucet's faceplate must be removed. We advise hiring a professional plumber for this task.

A leaking showerhead is a typical plumbing issue that you may be able to repair yourself. Obviously, if you encounter any issues or would rather have a professional complete the task, you can always contact our skilled staff.