How To Repair or Fix A Leaking Showerhead? It could be a ceiling mounted brass large shower head, a not-so-cheap spa-inspired, fixed chrome double shower head with an array of progressive attachments that burnish the aura of the shower stall or even the best possible brushed nickel flexible handheld shower faucet that money can buy – their apparent magnificence can easily be eclipsed by a leaking shower head.
When the powerful jet of plumbing problems decide to descend on a particular household, it often translates into a high-pressure situation. Just look around and you will find that nobody is removed from this intractable situation, something that results in a low flow of sparkling ideas and a high flow of inflammatory reactions.
So whether it is the problem of low pressure in the outdoor faucet, a failure in the chrome shower head valve, extenders and shower head diverter in the shower panel or minor repairs to the multitude of detachable, retractable or adjustable parts in the dual shower heads, one can never be sure when grating plumbing problems spray your life with stress and strain.
It’s The Most Feared
But among the deluge of home-improvement projects, ever wondered what is rated as the most ardors and awe-inspiring? If you believe it’s got something to do with that Aquadyne chlorine filter in the kitchen faucet, you are way off the mark. No, it’s not about arriving at a consensus about the best height to put 1 to 1.5 gpm shower heads or how to replace a shower head stem.
It is, surprisingly, how to fix a leaking shower head.
So what makes this seemingly simple plumbing job so dreadful? For starters, there’s no denying the fact that the constant drip-drip sound puts your peace of mind in complete jeopardy, not to mention the enormous drain on your finances. Of course, there is the usual ambivalence towards tinkering with something that looks so complicated.
It’s Definitely No Rocket Science
But contrary to public belief, fixing a leaky shower head is pretty rudimentary. All it requires is a few basic plumbing tools like an adjustable wrench, a screwdriver and a new washer. This is in addition to the time and patience that you need to provide to this project.
Most importantly, in time you will realize that doing this fairly routine task on your own actually saves you the trouble of inviting a horrendously-priced plumbing professional over to your place.
Get To The Root Of The Matter
Before you roll-up your sleeves and sort out the problem in right earnest, it’s important to ascertain the exact cause for the leak. Here are a few reasons for those sleepless nights.
Clogged Shower Head
Yes, that’s true. It’s time that you open your mind to this implausible factor that can very easily nibble away your composure. A clogged shower head affects the flow of water thus forcing it out of minute openings.
So make sure your shower head is clean before you proceed to dismantle the other parts of the fixture. Care must be taken while removing the shower head; the use of tape around the edges of the pliers to prevent scratching is advised. While some debris can be washed away with water, for the more recalcitrant ones, you will require a more potent solution like vinegar.
Washer Washing Away Your Happiness
The years of use (and sometimes abuse) does take a heavy toll on the shower, and particularly on the rubber part of the washer. More often than not, as the washer ages, the seal gets weak thus resulting in a leak. Thankfully, your consternation ends with a trip to the nearest Home Improvement Store, and a purchase of a brand-new washer. Just make sure that the new part matches the old one in terms of size.
Your repair exercise begins with removing the leaking fixture. While dismembering the shower head, use pliers and make sure you pay attention to intricate details of the assembling of smaller parts.
You must endeavor to locate the worn-out rubber washer also commonly referred to as the ‘O’ ring. Replace the old part with a new one. The application of a lubricant that is also heat-proof would add to the flexibility and movement of the shower head.
With the spanking new washer perfectly in place, it’s time to put back all the parts in correct order. Attach the shower head and turn on the water supply. You are sure to find that your tenuous contention is now history. But what if the leak persists? Just wrap the threads of the fixture with some plumber’s tape, and the tighter seal will put an end to your consternation.
Sometimes however, this elaborate procedure of repairs may not yield the desired results. In such cases, you may have to invite yourself into the plush environs of the Home Improvement Store in order to be a proud owner of a brand new fixture.
Either way, you are assured of a home that resounds with silence.
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