Diagnose a dripping shower head, clean or replace its washer, then test the fix before tidying up.
SH-01Work out where the drip is coming fromTurn the shower off fully and watch it for 30 seconds. Check whether water is dripping from the head's nozzles, from the swivel joint where it meets the hose, or from the wall-mounted valve itself. This tells you which part needs attention.
SH-02Gather tools and turn off the waterYou'll need an adjustable spanner, PTFE tape, a cloth, and possibly a new washer or O-ring. Turn off the water at the shower's isolating valve, or at the mains stopcock if there isn't one, as you already know how to do. Keep a towel handy to catch any drips as you work.
SH-03Protect the area and remove the shower headLay a towel in the bath or shower tray to protect the surface and catch small parts. Unscrew the shower head from the hose or shower arm by hand. If it's stuck, wrap a cloth around it before gripping with an adjustable spanner, to avoid scratching the chrome.
SH-04Check the washer or O-ringLook inside the connection for a small rubber washer or O-ring. If it's flattened, split, or missing, this is often the actual cause of the drip. Replace it with a new one of the same size, available cheaply from any plumbing merchant.
SH-05Clear limescale from the headSoak the shower head in a bowl of half water, half white vinegar for 30-60 minutes to dissolve limescale blocking the nozzles. Scrub gently with an old toothbrush, and clear stubborn holes with a fine pin. Rinse thoroughly under a running tap before refitting.
SH-06Reseal the thread and refitWrap two or three turns of PTFE tape clockwise around the threaded connection on the shower arm or hose end. Screw the shower head back on by hand until snug, then give it a small extra turn with the spanner if needed. Don't overtighten, as this can crack the fitting or damage the new washer.
SH-07Turn the water back on and testOpen the isolating valve or stopcock slowly. Run the shower for a couple of minutes and check the head, hose connection, and wall fitting for any drips or seeping. Turn the shower off and watch for a further 30 seconds to confirm the drip has stopped.
SH-08If the drip continuesIf water still drips after cleaning and replacing the washer, the problem is likely a worn cartridge inside the shower valve itself, not the head. This is a bigger job needing parts specific to your valve, and dismantling the valve body. If you're not confident isolating and opening up the valve, get a plumber to look at it.
SH-09Tidy upDry the shower area and wipe away any limescale residue from tiles or the tray. Dispose of the old washer and any scale build-up. Keep a spare washer or two in your toolbox for next time, as they're cheap and this is a common repair.
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