Fix A Leaking Shower Head The Easier Way
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.