Over time, biofilm, metals, and other sediment collect inside showerheads and can cause them to become blocked. A blocked showerhead causes an immense build-up of bacteria, places increased strain on your pipes and joints, and reduces the water efficiency of your shower.
How to clean your showerhead
A good way to start is by removing the showerhead from its fitting and giving it a good scrub over with an old toothbrush. If there are any holes which are completely blocked, use a toothpick or skewer to clean them out.
Calcium deposits and other debris inside the shower head can be softened by soaking the showerhead in vinegar for a few hours. The vinegar will break down the sediment and allow you to rinse it out.
Showerheads are fitted with a filter screen which catches debris. This can be removed, and should be cleaned regularly. The filter is usually attached to the pipe itself, and can be tricky to remove. If you are unsure, call a plumber for advice. Once you have removed the filter, scrub it and soak it in vinegar before rinsing. This can make a significant difference in the water pressure coming through your showerhead by removing built-up debris.
Disassembling your showerhead
This will allow you to get the best access to all the nooks and crannies that may need cleaning. If you have a newer showerhead, you might be able to gain access to a manual from the manufacturer which will show you how to take the showerhead apart. If not, a professional plumber can always do this for you and ensure that no damage is done to the fixtures.
If you are in doubt, never hesitate to call a professional plumber. No job is too big or too small for us. Even if you just need to ask us a few questions, give us a call so we can put you on the right track. Always keep in mind that your plumbing system is sensitive to changes in water pressure caused by new or changed fixtures and that this can lead to problems if not handled correctly.
