Have you ever been tormented by the relentless drip-drip-drip of a leaky shower head? Never fear, for we at Aquatrade Plumbing are at your service to navigate you through a simple, yet effective method to put a full stop to the dripping. A peaceful slumber and saving copious amounts of water are the dual rewards waiting at the finish line – a valuable contribution considering water is a scarce resource in our beloved sunburnt country. According to recent statistics from the Australian Government’s Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment, a leaky shower head has the potential to squander a staggering 37,000 litres of water annually, underscoring the urgency to address this issue promptly.
How to Identify a Leaky Shower Head
First, let’s pinpoint the problem. A leaky shower head can be identified by a persistent dripping of water, even when the shower taps are firmly shut off. This issue can be due to a faulty shower valve or a worn-out rubber washer, which we will discuss later in this post.
Tools Required
To fix a leaky shower head, you’ll need the following tools:
- An adjustable wrench or pair of pliers
- Teflon tape
- A new rubber washer (if needed)
Steps to Fix the Leaky Shower Head
Step 1: Removing the Shower Head
Start by turning off the water supply to prevent any mishaps. Once the water is off, remove the shower head using your wrench or pliers.
Step 2: Inspecting the Shower Head
Inspect the shower head for any signs of wear and tear. The most common cause for a leaky shower head is a worn-out rubber washer, which can be easily replaced.
Step 3: Replacing the Washer
If the washer is worn out, make sure to replace it with a new one. Make sure to get the right size washer for your shower head.
Step 4: Reapplying Teflon Tape
Now, Apply Teflon tape to the threads of the shower arm in a clockwise direction. This will ensure a tight, water-proof connection.
Step 5: Reattaching the Shower Head
Lastly, reattach the shower head to the shower arm. Be sure not to overtighten as it may cause damage.
Preventing Future Leaks
The old adage “prevention is better than cure” rings especially true in the realm of plumbing. A few simple habits and regular checks can ensure your shower head remains leak-free for years to come.
Regular Maintenance
Conduct routine checks on your shower head. Look for signs of wear and tear, especially in the washer and the valve. This small step can save you from dealing with a major leak in the future. To understand more about regular plumbing maintenance, explore our comprehensive guide on plumbing maintenance.
Water Pressure Checks
High water pressure can contribute to leaks. Regular water pressure checks will help you identify any irregularities and take corrective action early. Check this guide from Water Corporation to understand how water pressure can affect your plumbing.
Replace Old Parts
Shower head components wear out over time. Replacing them before they fail completely can save you a lot of hassle. Consider replacing the shower head every few years to prevent potential leaks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When fixing a leaky shower head, people often make a few common mistakes that may result in more harm than good.
Over Tightening
In an attempt to stop the leak, people often over tighten the shower head, causing damage to the threads or cracking the fixture. Always remember to tighten just enough to prevent leaks.
Wrong Sized Washer
Using a wrong sized washer is another common mistake. Always ensure the washer fits perfectly in the valve seat to ensure a tight seal.
Ignoring the Valve
The valve controls the water flow to the shower head. If it’s faulty, you could have a leak even with a brand new shower head. So never ignore the valve when investigating a leak.
To get a proper handle on the frequent pitfalls in plumbing and learn how to sidestep them, why not take a detour to our insightful blog posts.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
While DIY fixes can resolve minor leaks, some situations call for professional intervention. If the leak persists despite replacing the washer and Teflon tape, it could point to a deeper issue in your plumbing system. Additionally, if you notice a sudden spike in your water bill, it’s best to call in professionals who can conduct a comprehensive leak detection process.
At Aquatrade Plumbing, our skilled troupe of plumbers, with their tool belts strapped and ready, are always eager to tackle any plumbing conundrums that come their way. We heartily encourage you to have a gander at our customer testimonials. Every piece of feedback we’ve received shines a light on our unwavering dedication to exceptional service and epitomises the trust our clients bestow upon us.
Environmental Impact of a Leaky Shower Head
We’re all aware that Australia is the driest inhabited continent on earth. Water conservation should be a top priority for every household. According to Sustainability Victoria, a small leak can waste up to 10,000 litres of water a year. That’s equivalent to five months of an average person’s drinking water needs!
So, by fixing a leaky shower head, you’re not just saving money on your water bill, you’re also doing your part in conserving this precious resource.
As we have seen, fixing a leaky shower head can be an easy and rewarding task. Getting started with the correct tools in hand and following the outlined steps diligently is half the battle won. Our sincere hope is that this guide serves as a helpful beacon on your DIY voyage and stirs you to embrace a hands-on approach towards home maintenance. Remember, Aquatrade Plumbing is here to assist with any plumbing issues that may arise.
Conclusion
Learning how to fix a leaky shower head not only saves water, but it also empowers you to take charge of common household issues. However, remember that sometimes a stubborn leak may require professional intervention. Don’t hesitate to contact us at Aquatrade Plumbing for any of your plumbing needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How much water can a leaky shower head waste?
A1: A leaky shower head can waste up to 37,000 litres of water per year.
Q2: What are the common causes of a leaky shower head?
A2: The most common cause is a worn-out rubber washer. However, a faulty shower valve can also lead to leaks.
Q3: Where can I buy the tools needed to fix a leaky shower head?
A3: These can be sourced from local hardware stores.
Q4: What should I do if I can’t fix the leak myself?
A4: If you’ve tried the steps above and your shower head is still leaking, it’s best to call in professionals like us at Aquatrade Plumbing.
Q5: Can a leaky shower head increase my water bill?
A5: Absolutely. A leaky shower head wastes water, and as water usage is metered, it can noticeably increase your water bill.
