Quick Answer:
If you get bursts of air through the showerhead right after the water system is restarted, it’s usually trapped air in the supply lines or a showerhead screen that’s holding debris. Start by running the shower on cold, then warm, at a low flow. Only remove the showerhead if it’s easy to do and you feel comfortable; otherwise leave it on and use the run-the-shower method below.
Why This Happens
When plumbing is drained or a main is shut off, air can enter the pipes. Because the shower is often the highest fixture on a branch, that trapped air will travel there first and come out as sputtering or spitting. If the problem shows up at the shower but not at sinks, that pattern supports air collecting at the highest point or debris sitting on the showerhead screen. Other causes can include partial blockages, valve operation during restart, or recent work on the system that introduced air.
If you recently had work done on the drain lines or valves, related articles such as Air noise in pipes after drain work and Air noise after backflow preventer install cover similar scenarios and may be helpful.
Step-by-Step What to Do
1. Check other fixtures
- Turn on a nearby sink and another shower if you have one. If sinks run clear and steady but the shower sputters, the air is likely collecting at that high point or trapped in the shower branch.
2. Run the shower on cold first, low flow
- Set the shower to cold and start at a low flow. Let it run until the sputtering eases. Cold avoids scald risk if water mixing behavior changes.
3. Switch to warm, still at low flow
- Move to warm water and keep the flow low for a minute or two. Warming can help loosen air pockets and push them out.
4. Remove the showerhead only if it’s easy and you’re comfortable
- If the head unscrews with hand effort or a simple wrench and you feel confident, remove it and check the screen and passages for debris. Clean gently and reassemble. If removal is difficult or you’re unsure, skip this and continue running the shower as above.
5. Reassemble and test
- Put the showerhead back on (if you removed it) and re-test at low flow, then normal flow. Confirm the sputter is gone and water flows steadily.
6. If sputtering persists
- Note whether the sputter is only at the shower or affects multiple fixtures. Persistent or system-wide air, discolored water, or pressure loss should be addressed by a professional.
What Not to Do
- Don’t overtighten the showerhead on reassembly; overtightening can strip threads or crack parts.
- Don’t poke or pick at spray holes to clear them—this can damage the face and create irregular spray patterns.
- If you remove the head, don’t force or cross-thread it and don’t damage seals or Teflon tape on the connections.
When to Call a Professional
- Call a plumber if air keeps coming out after reasonable flushing, if multiple fixtures sputter, or if you see leaks, low pressure, or discolored water.
- If you’re unsure how to shut off the water safely, or if the showerhead won’t come off easily, get professional help rather than forcing parts.
Safety Notes
- Start with cold water to avoid scalding from unexpected hot bursts.
- Use a cloth on tools to protect finishes and avoid slipping when removing a showerhead.
- Avoid aggressive attempts to clear passages (no sharp objects or drills). If you suspect a deeper blockage or valve issue, contact a pro.
Common Homeowner Questions
- Why did this start after the water was shut off? Air enters the pipes when lines are drained; it often shows up at the highest fixture when water is restored.
- Can I just let the shower run until the air clears? Yes—running cold at low flow is the simplest first fix. Monitor to avoid wasting water and check other fixtures too.
- Does this mean there’s a leak? Not necessarily. Air alone doesn’t mean a leak, but combine air with low pressure, continuous sputtering, or visible leaks and call a plumber.