A shower that drips after being turned off is often just draining the water left in the head and hose. If it keeps dripping for a long time, the mixer valve may not be shutting off fully, often because of worn seals or a tired cartridge. Washers, controls and water pressure can also play a part.
Normal Draining or a Real Drip?
After you turn a shower off, some water stays in the hose, pipe and shower head. This water can drip out for a few minutes as it drains away. That is normal and does not usually mean anything is wrong.
A real drip is different. If the head is still dripping an hour later, or drips all day without stopping, water is likely getting past the valve. Try placing a cup under the head and checking it later. A steady flow suggests the valve is not sealing properly, even if the drip seems small.
Worn Seals and Cartridges in the Mixer Valve
In a mixer shower, the valve controls when water flows and how hot it is. Inside, a cartridge and rubber seals or O-rings help to shut off the water. Over time these parts can wear, harden or become coated with limescale.
When this happens, a small amount of water may keep passing through, even with the shower off. The drip may get worse slowly. Limescale is common in hard water areas and can stop parts closing as tightly as they should.
Hose, Head and Control Problems
Sometimes the leak is not coming from the valve at all. Washers where the hose joins the valve or the shower head can wear out. This can cause drips from the joints, or water running down the hose.
A loose or faulty control handle can also be to blame. If the handle does not turn fully to the off position, the valve may stay slightly open. High water pressure may make a small fault more noticeable, as it can push water past a part that is starting to wear.
When to Get It Assessed
A slow drip can waste water and leave limescale marks on the tray or bath. If water is leaking from joints or behind the wall, it may cause damp or damage that you cannot see at first. Look out for loose tiles, stained ceilings below or a musty smell.
Because several things can cause a drip, it is best not to guess. A plumber can check the valve, cartridge, seals and hose to find where the water is coming from. You can find out more about our mixer shower repairs. This article is about mixer showers. Electric showers involve electrical work and need a qualified electrician.
If your shower keeps dripping and you are in Swindon, Emergency Plumber Swindon can take a look. Call 01793 569521 for friendly advice about what to do next.