Learn Why Your Shower Keeps Clogging And How To Solve It
If your once-powerful shower has turned into a trickle, it’s likely due to sediment buildup in the shower head. This is a common issue in areas like Spokane, WA, where water is deemed moderately hard. To prevent frustration and interruptions to your daily routine, it’s crucial to understand how to stop mineral deposits and sediment from blocking the nozzles.
Raptor Rooter & Plumbing is here to explain why your shower keeps clogging and how you can restore it to full power. From investing in a Spokane water-softening system to scheduling bathroom plumbing services, our team is here to help you get the most from this fixture.
What Causes A Blocked Shower Head?
The most likely cause of a clogged shower head is the accumulation of mineral deposits and sediment in the plumbing system. Over time, minerals in hard water — like calcium and magnesium — build up in the small nozzles of your shower head. These deposits harden and create blockages that affect your shower’s performance.
In addition to mineral buildup, sediment from your water supply can also clog the fixture. This sediment might come from old pipes, corroding water heaters or your city’s water system.
How To Fix A Shower Faucet Clogged By Sediment
If your shower keeps clogging, don’t fret! There are simple ways to restore proper water flow without replacing the entire fixture.
Vinegar Soak
One of the easiest ways to fix a blocked shower head is to soak it in vinegar. Vinegar naturally dissolves mineral deposits, preventing scale from clogging your fixtures. To perform a vinegar soak, follow these steps:
- Remove the shower head — Unscrew the fixture from the pipe connecting it to the wall.
- Soak in vinegar — Fill a bowl with white vinegar and soak the shower head for 30 minutes to an hour.
- Rinse and scrub — After soaking, rinse the component thoroughly and use a soft brush to scrub away any remaining deposits.
- Reinstall the fixture — Once cleaned, reattach the component and test the water flow.
If you’re unable to remove the shower head, you can fill a plastic bag with vinegar and tie it around its base. This method should be used in moderation for chrome fixtures, as the acidity can damage the finish.
Clean The Filter Screen
Some shower heads contain a small filter screen that catches debris and sediment before it reaches the nozzles. Over time, this screen can become clogged. To clean this part, disassemble the shower head and remove the screen. Rinse it under water to remove any lodged debris.
Tips To Prevent A Blocked Shower Head
Your bathroom fixtures require upkeep every now and then for efficient operation. However, there are methods you can use to prevent future issues and frequent clogs. Our Spokane plumbers are here to share some tips to keep your shower free of sediment buildup.
Install A Water Softener
A water softener can help reduce the amount of minerals in your home’s water supply, preventing them from accumulating in your plumbing fixtures. This system removes calcium and magnesium ions from your water supply. It replaces them with sodium ions, reducing leftover mineral deposits.
Use A Shower Head Filter
Installing a shower head filter can catch sediment and minerals before they clog your shower faucet. These filters can make a noticeable difference in water quality and are relatively easy to install.
When To Call Raptor Rooter & Plumbing
If your shower keeps clogging despite your best efforts, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from our professional plumbers. Mineral deposits and sediment could indicate an issue with your plumbing system. At Raptor Rooter & Plumbing, we’re equipped to diagnose the cause of persistent clogs and offer effective, long-term plumbing repairs.
Efficient Bathroom Plumbing Services In Spokane, WA
Dealing with a blocked shower head can be frustrating, but the experts at Raptor Rooter & Plumbing are here to help Spokane homeowners with all their plumbing needs. From clearing stubborn sediment to preventing future clogs, we’ll ensure your shower stays in top condition. Don’t let bathroom plumbing clogs disrupt your daily routine — reach out to us today!
