Shower Head Keeps Dripping: Causes, Checks & Fixes

Stop using the shower or bath if water is reaching ceilings, walls or electrical fittings

Isolate local water supplies where possible. Electric showers must be isolated electrically before any internal work, and temperature faults that create scalding risk should be treated as urgent.

MOST LIKELY CAUSES

Start with these

Retained water Large heads can drain slowly after use.

Control cartridge leaking The valve allows a small continuous flow.

Debris on valve seat Scale or grit prevents full closure.

Pressure-related seepage High pressure can worsen a weak seal.

◫ Symptom variations Match the exact pressure, temperature or leak pattern. ⌄

Drips for a few minutes then stops
Drips continuously overnight
Only drips when head is tilted
Drip worsens after use
Control must be forced tightly to stop

✓ Quick checks Simple checks before dismantling shower or bath components. ⌄

Identify whether the problem affects pressure, temperature, drainage or leakage.
Check nearby hot and cold outlets for similar symptoms.
Clean accessible shower heads, filters and waste covers.
Inspect hoses, seals, trays and accessible joints.
Stop testing immediately if water appears below or near electrics.

If the cause is isolated: keep the affected fitting out of use until repaired.

If the leak is concealed or temperature is unsafe: arrange professional inspection.

1 Step 1 — Time how long the drip lasts Use controlled tests and stop if water reaches ceilings or electrics. ⌄

Process

Observe whether it stops after retained water drains.

Success looks like: Normal drainage is confirmed.

Escalate when: Continuous flow indicates a valve fault.

2 Step 2 — Lower or empty the head carefully Use controlled tests and stop if water reaches ceilings or electrics. ⌄

Process

Allow trapped water to drain from the head and hose.

Success looks like: Residual water clears.

Escalate when: If fresh water continues, the control valve leaks.

3 Step 3 — Do not over-tighten the control Use controlled tests and stop if water reaches ceilings or electrics. ⌄

Process

Use normal closing force only.

Success looks like: Further damage is avoided.

Escalate when: A worn cartridge should be replaced.

⌁ Common causes explained Why shower and bath faults develop. ⌄

A shower head may drip briefly as retained water drains, but continuous dripping usually means the control valve or cartridge is not sealing fully.

Shower and bath faults often depend on when water is flowing, draining or hitting a sealed surface. Controlled separate tests help distinguish supply, mixer, waste and enclosure faults.

⌘ Advanced diagnostics Plumber or appliance-engineer checks. ⌄

Replace control or thermostatic cartridge.
Clean valve seat and inlet filters.
Check pressure and non-return valves.
Inspect diverter valves where fitted.
Test for full shut-off after repair.

▣ Parts that may need replacing Common components linked to this fault. ⌄

Control cartridge
Thermostatic cartridge
Diverter cartridge
O-ring kit
Shower head seal

! When to call a plumber or engineer Conditions that should end basic troubleshooting. ⌄

Water is leaking through a ceiling or near electrical equipment.
The shower temperature is dangerously hot or unstable.
An electric shower has an internal heating or power fault.
The tray, bath or concealed pipework must be removed for access.
A thermostatic cartridge cannot be calibrated safely.
The fault returns after basic cleaning or seal replacement.

? Frequently asked questions Common questions about shower and bath faults. ⌄

Why does a shower drip after it is turned off?

Large heads and hoses can hold water temporarily. Continuous fresh dripping points to a leaking control valve or cartridge.

Can failed sealant cause a ceiling leak?

Yes, but waste joints, pipe connections and tray movement must also be ruled out.

Why does shower temperature change when another tap is used?

The hot and cold pressures may be unbalanced or the thermostatic cartridge may not compensate correctly.