How To Fix A Leaking Shower Head

A leaking shower head can be a frustrating problem, but it's usually one that you can fix yourself with a few simple tools. In most cases, the leak is caused by a worn-out washer or gasket. Replacing these parts is a quick and easy job that should take no more than 30 minutes.

Here's what you'll need to get started:

A new washer or gasket
A wrench
A pair of pliers
A towel
Optional: A flashlight

Once you have your tools, follow these steps:

Turn off the water supply to the shower. You can do this by turning the valve located behind the shower head.
Wrap a towel around the base of the shower head to catch any water that may leak out.
Using the wrench, loosen the nut that holds the shower head in place. Be careful not to overtighten the nut, as this could damage the shower head.
Remove the shower head and inspect the washer or gasket. If it is worn or damaged, replace it with a new one.
Reattach the shower head and tighten the nut. Again, be careful not to overtighten the nut.
Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the nut a little more until the leak stops.

If you're not comfortable replacing the washer or gasket yourself, you can call a plumber for assistance.

Tips

If you have a handheld shower head, you may need to remove the hose from the shower head before you can replace the washer or gasket.
If the leak is coming from the base of the shower arm, you may need to replace the O-ring.
If you're not sure what type of washer or gasket you need, take the old one to a hardware store and ask for help.
If you're still having trouble fixing the leak, you can call a plumber for assistance.

Troubleshooting

If the leak is coming from the handle, you may need to replace the cartridge.
If the leak is coming from the shower arm, you may need to replace the O-ring.
If the leak is coming from the base of the shower head, you may need to replace the washer or gasket.