A constantly dripping shower isn’t just annoying, but it can waste water and lead to increased water bills. It can also lead to property damage. In Arizona, where water conservation is essential, it is crucial to fix a leaky shower as soon as possible to protect both your wallet and the environment. Whether it’s a small drip or a steady trickle, taking action can prevent bigger plumbing issues in the future.
In this homeowner’s guide, we’ll walk you through common causes, DIY solutions, and when to call a trusted Tucson plumber.
Why is Your Shower Dripping?
There are several reasons why your shower might be dripping, even when turned off. Some of the most common causes include:
- Worn-out washers or seals – The rubber parts in your shower wear down with use and may allow water to seep through.
- Damaged cartridges – The cartridge regulates water flow and temperature. If it’s cracked or misaligned, there are likely to be drips.
- Faulty or corroded shower valves – This is more likely in older homes or where there is mineral buildup, often due to Arizona’s hard water.
- Loose or aging fixtures – worn-out or improperly installed showerheads, handles, or fittings can lead to persistent drips.
With even minor leaks wasting gallons of water over time, it is critical to identify the cause of dripping early and fix it promptly.
DIY Fixes for a Leaky Shower Head
Some dripping issues may not require you to call a plumber. Here are some steps you can take to fix common showerhead issues by yourself.
- Shut Off The Water Supply. Before doing anything, turn off your home’s water supply to avoid accidents, including water damage. Alternatively, if there is a localized valve near the shower, you can shut it off instead. You may need a towel or a cloth to dry excess water that may drip out even after the shut-off.
- Replace the Washer or O-Ring. If the shower drip is due to worn-out washers or O-rings in the faucet handle, replace these parts. Washers and seals are affordable, and replacement is often straightforward.
- Clean the Showerhead. Mineral buildup and stubborn dirt can affect your shower’s water flow and pressure. Remove your showerhead and soak it in vinegar overnight to remove any calcium deposits before gently scrubbing it. Rinse and reattach it.
- Tighten Loose Parts. Check if the showerhead or faucet handle is loose. A quick but gentle tightening with a wrench might be all you need to stop the drip.
Turn the water supply back on after the relevant actions. If you are not comfortable with tools or are unsure of what you’re doing, don’t force it. You may end up causing more damage and turning a small issue into a major repair.
When to Call a Professional Tucson Plumber
While DIY repairs are helpful for minor issues, you may need to call a professional plumber to fix your leaky shower if:
- The drip continues after basic repairs
- You notice rust corrosion or mold near the valve or faucet
- Your shower is complex or outdated
- The water pressure is low, or you experience inconsistent hot water
- You’re uncomfortable dismantling plumbing fixtures
Our team of licensed plumbers at Curtis Plumbing has years of experience handling shower repairs in both newer and older properties in Tucson and the surrounding areas. If your DIY solutions didn’t fix the issue, we’re ready to step in.
How We Diagnose and Repair Dripping Showers
When you schedule shower repair or replacement services with us, we take a thorough approach involving several steps, including:
- Inspection – We assess your shower system, water pressure, and check for hidden leaks or mineral damage.
- Component replacement – We replace damaged cartridges, washers, or entire valve assemblies if necessary.
- Preventive maintenance – We provide recommendations to help prevent future issues.
- Upgrade options – We help install modern, efficient, and eco-friendly showerheads and related plumbing fixtures according to your needs and budget.
How to Prevent Future Shower Drips
A dripping shower doesn’t need to become a recurring problem. Here’s how to avoid it:
- Schedule routing inspections – Annual plumbing checkups help catch wear and tear early.
- Install a water softener – Tucson’s hard water can damage fixtures and appliances over time. A water softener helps protect your plumbing.
- Invest in quality parts – consider high-quality components when replacing showerhead parts. They last longer.
- Stay alert – address unusual sounds, pressure drops, or small drips right away before they become big issues.
Contact Tucson’s Trusted Plumbing Experts
Don’t let a leaky shower waste water and cost you money. Whether you are dealing with a simple washer replacement or need full shower valve repair, you can rely on our skilled and experienced plumbing experts at Curtis Plumbing. Call us today for fast, affordable, and quality shower repair in Tucson and neighboring communities. Let us help you stop the drip.
