How to Fix a Leaky Hand-Held Showerhead
Although a leaky showerhead does not waste that much water or diminish the effects when using it, a leak can still be annoying. Two primary conditions that result in a handheld showerhead leaking are a faulty head gasket or an ineffective connection between the hose and the showerhead. Fortunately, the location of the leak will point to the cause and plumbing repair should only take a couple of minutes.
How to Fix a Leaky Hand-held Showerhead
Remove the Flexible Hose
Switch off the water supply and undo the compression fittings at both ends of the hose, using a wrench. Take the showerhead in one hand and unscrew the hose by turning it counterclockwise. If the nut refuses to budge, wrap a cloth around the shower handle and grip it with some pliers while unscrewing the fitting.
Install New Rubber Washers
Put in new rubber washers on both ends of the hose. Thread the fittings on the faucet and showerhead. Tighten them with the wrench, just be careful that you don’t damage the rubber washers by over-tightening them.
Install a New Rubber Gasket
Put in a new rubber gasket under the knurled threaded flange, thread the flange onto the shower disk, and then tighten the knurled nut manually.
Test the Connections for Leaks
Switch the water back on, turn on the faucet and check the connections for any leaks. If the showerhead comes with compression fittings and you see a leak, tighten the fittings another quarter turn. However, if you see a leak from under the knurled nut, wrap a rag around the fitting and then tighten the nut with some pliers.
If you would like to make an appointment to discuss plumbing repair, please do not hesitate to contact JP & DC LLC at (240) 232-8308 now, if you live in the Silver Spring, MD region.