The short answer
Turn off the Water First
Before touching anything, locate the shutoff valve for your shower. It is usually in the basement, crawl space, or an access panel behind the tile. Turning off the water prevents a spray when you loosen the shower head. If you live in Redmond, keep the shutoff valve location written down for future leaks.
If you cannot find a shutoff valve, you may need to turn off the main water supply to the house. That is a bigger step, but it is safer than working with water pressure. Once the water is off, open the shower valve briefly to release any trapped water in the pipe.
Remove and Inspect the Shower Head
Use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the shower head from the pipe. Wrap the wrench with cloth tape to avoid scratching the finish. Set the head aside and look at the threads on the pipe and inside the head. Check for a rubber washer, which is often the culprit.
If the washer is cracked, flattened, or missing, that is your leak source. Mineral deposits from hard water can also prevent a tight seal. Soak the head in vinegar for an hour to dissolve buildup, then rinse it clean. Inspect the pipe threads for damage or corrosion.
- Turn off water at shutoff valve
- Use cloth-wrapped wrench to remove head
- Inspect rubber washer for cracks or wear
- Soak head in vinegar if mineral deposits are present
- Check pipe threads for damage or corrosion
Replace the Washer and Reattach
Buy a replacement washer that matches the size of your shower head. Most hardware stores sell a pack with multiple sizes. Place the new washer inside the head, then wrap the pipe threads with plumber's tape (Teflon tape) to create a watertight seal. Screw the head back on by hand first, then tighten with the wrench.
Do not overtighten, as that can crack the plastic or strip the threads. Turn the water back on slowly and check for drips. If it still leaks, the problem may be the pipe behind the wall, not the head itself.
When the Leak Is in the Wall
If the leak continues after replacing the washer, the issue could be a cracked pipe or a loose connection inside the wall. That requires opening the wall to access the plumbing. A plumber can diagnose and fix that kind of leak, but water may have already damaged drywall or insulation.
Water that seeps into walls can lead to mold and rot. If you notice damp drywall, staining, or a musty smell, you may need water damage cleanup. The pros can extract water, dry the structure, and repair the drywall. Catching a hidden leak early prevents bigger problems.
- Cracked pipe or loose fitting inside wall
- Damp drywall or staining on ceiling
- Musty odor from trapped moisture
- Water damage to insulation or framing
Prevent Future Shower Head Leaks
Regular maintenance keeps shower head leaks at bay. Once a year, remove the head and replace the washer even if it looks fine. Clean mineral deposits with vinegar to maintain a good seal. Check the connection for tightness after any plumbing work in the house.
If you have hard water, a water softener can reduce buildup. Also, avoid hanging heavy items on the shower head, as that can bend the pipe and create gaps. Catching small drips early saves you from bigger repairs later.
Talk to someone now
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (425) 407-5186Frequently asked questions
Why does my shower head leak only when the water is on?
That usually points to a worn washer or loose connection. When water flows, pressure pushes through the gap. Replacing the washer and tightening the head often solves it. If it leaks only when off, the valve inside the handle may be the issue.
Can I fix a leaky shower head without a plumber?
Yes, for simple washer or tape issues. Most homeowners can handle that with basic tools. If the leak is inside the wall or the pipe is cracked, you need a plumber. Water damage from a hidden leak may require professional cleanup.
What if the leak is coming from the pipe behind the wall?
That requires opening the wall to access the plumbing. A plumber can repair the pipe, but water may have soaked into drywall and framing. You might need water damage inspection and drying. The pros can assess the extent and dry the structure to prevent mold.