Drippy Shower

Home repair expert Henry Harrison helps a guest track down the cause behind a dripping showerhead. After replacing the showerhead and ruling it out, they disassemble the shower mechanism and check for damaged or worn parts.

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Filed under: Shower Heads, Repair, How To

Before

Materials and Tools:

water meter key
lint-free towel
hex wrench
toothpick
Philips-head screwdriver
flashlight
stiff-bristled brush
heat-proof plumber's grease

Steps:

1. Unscrew and remove showerhead to see if perhaps the showerhead is defective. If you're still getting a drip, turn off the water at the main using the meter key and investigate further.

2. Use a hex wrench to loosen the retaining screw on the shower handle and remove the handle.

3. Remove the cover plate for the shower handle and inspect the gaskets on the back.

4. Next remove the shroud from around the shower mechanism, then twist the ring holding the assembly together counter-clockwise to release.

5. Take note of the position of the handle mechanism and the little cam just behind it. The mechanism will need to be in the same position when you re-assemble the fixture.

6. Have a towel ready and carefully pull out the mechanism. There may still be water under pressure behind it and you might get wet.

7. Inspect the mechanism for wear and / or damage. Remove the O-rings with a toothpick, taking care not to damage them. Inspect the rings for cracks and if any appear damaged replace them. Also check the grooves for the rings on the mechanism.

8. If everything checks out, then the drip may be caused by the rings not seating properly. Clean the hot and cold ports inside the mixing chamber in the shower wall. Use a lint-free towel to clean the ports, and use another toothpick to clear out any deposits around the perimeter of the ports.

9. Use a damp, stiff brush to clean off the handle mechanism.

10. Coat the O-rings with non-toxic, heat-proof plumber's grease. Slip the O-rings back on the handle mechanism and apply a bit more grease. Rub off any excess grease on your fingers by rubbing them around the ports in the wall-mounted assembly.

11. Reassemble the mechanism, making sure your handle and cam lines up in the original position. Reattach the cover plate and handle.

12. Reattach the showerhead, turn the water back on and check for drips.