Leaky showerheads are a common home plumbing issue. There are a number of possible culprits. Here are the most likely causes of your leaky shower.
Limescale is the white, flakey mineral deposit that builds up on showerheads and other fixtures as a result of hard water. When limescale builds up on and inside your showerhead, it can block the openings and make it difficult for water to flow up. This causes pressure and makes the water look for any possible way out, and can push through seams and create a leak in the fixture.
If you have a bathtub/shower, the issue may be a problem with the valve that changes the water flow between the bath faucet and showerhead. This valve becomes worn out and loosened over time, causing water to leak from either the faucet or the showerhead. Note that replacing the valve is complicated and is best left to a professional to ensure that it is installed properly.
The O-ring is the seal that is located inside your shower head and keeps water from escaping. With time, the O-ring will wear down, harden, or tear, which is a very common cause of showerhead leaking. Having your O-ring replaced is quick, simple, and affordable and could well be all you need to do to stop the leak.
Most of the time, a leaky showerhead is caused by one of the above issues and is relatively quick and inexpensive to have fixed. It is a good idea to address that leak sooner rather than later because a leak wastes water, increases your monthly bills, and could turn into a bigger problem if ignored for too long.
Get in touch with Butler Plumbing, Heating & Gasfitting today for more information, to get a quote, or to book service.