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A drip from the shower head, a leak at the mixer and moisture outside the shower are different problems. Identify when and where water appears before replacing the head; concealed plumbing or waterproofing may need separate assessment.
Head, mixer or a concealed leak?
| What to consider | Useful next step |
|---|---|
| Brief dripping after use | Residual water may drain from the head; watch whether it stops. |
| Continuous dripping when off | The controlling tap or mixer may not be sealing. |
| Water at a connection during use | A fitting or seal may need assessment. |
| Dampness in a wall or outside the shower | Investigate the source before assuming the visible head is at fault. |
For the work involved, see our tap repair and installation service and cost guide.
Start with Where and When the Water Appears
Water at a shower can come from the head, hose, wall connection, mixer, concealed pipework or the shower area itself. The visible drip is not always the failed part.
Note whether the water:
- Appears only while the shower is running
- Continues well after the shower is turned off
- Leaks at the threaded wall connection
- Comes from the mixer or handle
- Appears around the screen, wall or floor
- Shows as staining in an adjoining room or ceiling below
That distinction helps determine whether the job is a fitting repair, tap repair, concealed leak investigation or building-waterproofing issue.
Brief Dripping After Use
Some shower heads hold water and release it after the tap is turned off. The amount and duration depend on the head design and angle.
A steady drip that continues long after use can point to a mixer, cartridge or valve that is not closing fully. Water at the wall connection while the shower runs can point to a loose, damaged or poorly sealed outlet connection.
Checks You Can Make Without Opening Anything
- Wipe the head, wall connection and mixer dry, then observe where water first returns.
- Check whether the shower head or arm is visibly loose. Do not force it.
- Look for damaged seals, cracked fittings or staining.
- Compare whether hot, cold or mixed water changes the leak.
- Photograph the shower and any water appearing outside the recess.
Clean removable spray nozzles only in line with the manufacturer instructions. Avoid applying sealant over an unknown source; it can hide the sign without fixing the fault.
When the Shower Head Is Not the Problem
Water around the screen or floor may involve joints, drainage, movement or waterproofing rather than the shower head. A damp wall, soft floor, musty area or staining below the bathroom needs investigation before a replacement head is assumed to solve it.
If water appears inside a wall, near electrical equipment or on a ceiling below, stop using the shower until the risk is understood.
Repair or Replace the Fitting?
The answer depends on the failed part, product condition and spare-parts availability. A sound fitting may need a seal or cartridge. Cracked, corroded or unsupported fittings may be better replaced with a compatible product.
For new tapware, check the mounting, pressure, connection, clearances, WELS information and access before purchase. See the tap repair and installation service for the information to send.
What to Include in an Enquiry
Send:
- A photo of the head, wall outlet and mixer
- Where the water first appears
- Whether it leaks while running or after use
- Any staining, movement or dampness nearby
- The brand or model if visible
If the source appears concealed, leak detection may be needed. For active water damage, use the urgent plumbing contact.
Call 0404 939 121 for an active shower leak, or send clear photos and the fault details online.
About the author
Panther Plumbing Group
Family-owned plumbing repairs, maintenance and installations across Sydney. We assess the job, explain the options and discuss the scope and cost before work proceeds.
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