Shower faucet dripping when it's off? (Atlanta)

Short answerIf water drips from the connection where the showerhead meets the pipe, tighten it and add pipe tape. If it drips from the head itself after the valve is off, the valve cartridge or washer is the likely cause, and EPA WaterSense suggests a handyperson or licensed plumber.

Drips at the showerhead

EPA WaterSense says some leaky showerheads can be fixed by making sure the connection to the pipe stem is tight and using pipe tape (EPA WaterSense). Its home maintenance page also suggests cleaning scale off the head with a cleaning product or white vinegar (EPA WaterSense).

Drips from the valve

For more complicated valve leaks in showers that drip when not in use, EPA WaterSense says to contact an experienced handyperson or licensed plumber (EPA WaterSense). Worn washers and gaskets are a frequent cause of faucet leaks (EPA WaterSense).

How much it wastes

EPA WaterSense says a showerhead leaking at 10 drips a minute wastes more than 500 gallons a year (EPA WaterSense).

If water gets in the wall

A valve leaking behind the wall can soak framing and the ceiling below. See shower leaks through the ceiling on 404 Water Damage.

Common questions

Can I shut off just the shower?

Some shower valves have their own stops behind an access panel. If not, use the main valve while the plumber works.

Sources

This guide is general information, not legal, insurance or plumbing advice.