Leaking shower faucet (and diverter)

​Have you turned on your shower and noticed water still leaking at the faucet? This can be a frustrating issue which can cause several problems including:

Reduced Water Pressure: When the faucet leaks, water is diverted both to the showerhead and back to the tub faucet simultaneously. This split in the water flow reduces the pressure that would otherwise be directed solely to the showerhead. As a result, the water pressure at the showerhead diminishes, affecting the quality and strength of the shower stream.

Wasted Water: A leaking faucet leads to wasted water. Beyond the annoyance of the sound of dripping water, the constant leak means you’re using more water than necessary. This can significantly impact your water bill over time.

​Mold and Mildew: Persistent moisture due to the leak can create an environment conducive to mold and mildew growth. This not only damages the aesthetics of the shower area but can also pose health risks, particularly for those with allergies or respiratory issues.

Structural Damage: Water leaks can cause damage to walls, floors, and surrounding structures. Constant exposure to moisture can lead to deterioration, weakening the integrity of the surfaces and potentially causing more significant issues over time.
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Increased Maintenance: Continual leaks require more maintenance and repair. Ignoring a leaking faucet might lead to more extensive problems that demand costly repairs or replacements in the long run. Addressing a leaking shower faucet promptly is essential to prevent these issues. Whether it's fixing the diverter, replacing damaged parts, or seeking professional assistance, attending to the problem will not only restore water pressure to the showerhead but also prevent water waste and potential damage to the shower and surrounding areas.

When water leaks at the faucet during a shower, it's often due to a faulty or worn-out diverter. The diverter is a mechanism that directs water from the tub faucet to the showerhead. When it malfunctions, it fails to completely block the flow of water to the tub faucet when the shower is on, causing the leak.

Common repairs to fix this issue include:

1. Cleaning the Diverter: Sediment and mineral buildup can impede the proper functioning of the diverter. Cleaning it can sometimes resolve the issue. This involves removing the diverter and soaking it in a solution that breaks down mineral deposits. 
2. Replacing the Diverter: If cleaning doesn’t solve the problem, replacing the diverter might be necessary. This typically involves disassembling the faucet to access the diverter and installing a new one. 
3. Repairing the Faucet: Sometimes, the leak might not be directly related to the diverter but could be due to other faucet issues. Repairing or replacing damaged parts within the faucet assembly might resolve the leak.
4. Seeking Professional Help: In cases where the issue is complex or if you're unsure about performing the repairs, it’s best to contact a plumber or a professional experienced in faucet and plumbing repairs. They can diagnose the problem accurately and execute the necessary repairs efficiently.

Remember, before conducting any repairs, it's crucial to turn off the water supply to the affected area to prevent further leakage and damage. Additionally, each plumbing system and faucet design might have specific requirements for repair, so consulting the faucet’s user manual or seeking professional help is advisable for a precise fix. Contact a CAI Home Inspector if you have questions regarding the proper operation of your shower faucet and shower diverter. We are here to help!