Quick Answer:
If the shower keeps dripping for hours after you shut it off, start by turning the water off and timing how long the drip continues. A slow tapering drip that stops after a short while is usually just drained water and air. A steady drip for many hours can mean household water pressure is high or the valve is bleeding through and not fully sealing. Time the drip, check other fixtures, and if the leak looks steady or you suspect the valve, a plumber is appropriate.
Why This Happens
- Residual water: Pipes and the showerhead hold water that can drain out slowly after you turn the tap off. That usually stops within a few minutes to an hour.
- Slow bleed through the valve: If the mixing valve or cartridge does not seat fully, pressure can force a small amount of water past it so the head drips for a long time.
- High household water pressure: Excessive pressure can push water past valves that would otherwise hold. A steady long-term drip is more likely with high pressure.
- Recent work or unusual patterns: If the problem began after a repair or only happens at certain times, that points toward a different cause — see Dripping started after plumbing repair and Shower drips only at night for related situations.
Step-by-Step What to Do
1. Turn the shower off and time the drip
- Shut the shower completely and start a timer. Note how long and whether the drip rate changes.
- If it stops within a few minutes, it was likely residual drainage. If it continues steadily for hours, move to the next checks.
2. Compare other fixtures
- Open a sink faucet and observe pressure. If other fixtures show similar problems, this suggests a system pressure issue rather than the shower alone.
3. Check visible fittings and the head
- Look for obvious leaks at the showerhead, arm, or external fittings. A loose head can drip, but don’t replace parts yet—confirm whether the valve is leaking first.
4. Listen and look for steady pressure signs
- A steady predictable drip for hours usually means water is being forced through the valve. A tapering drip that slows to nothing points to residual water.
5. Decide whether to act or call
- If the drip is short-lived and minor, you can monitor it. If it is steady, widespread, or causing damage, call a plumber. If you know how to isolate the valve and are comfortable doing so, you can shut off the local supply and inspect, but do not force parts you don’t understand.
What Not to Do
- Don’t chase hours-long dripping by changing showerheads first—confirm whether the valve is leaking. Swapping the head wastes time and won’t fix a bad valve.
- Don’t attempt valve replacement unless you have the right shutoffs, parts, and experience. Improper work can cause bigger leaks or water damage.
- Don’t ignore persistent dripping if it’s wetting floors, walls, or ceilings below. That needs prompt attention.
- Don’t hesitate to call a plumber if you’re unsure—professional diagnosis prevents unnecessary repairs and damage.
When to Call a Professional
- If the drip is steady for many hours and does not taper off after you time it.
- If multiple fixtures show pressure issues or if the house pressure seems high.
- If you see water damage, staining, or wet ceiling below the shower.
- If you’re uncomfortable isolating the valve or don’t have experience with plumbing repairs.
Safety Notes
- Shut off the correct water supply before removing handles or cartridge parts. Use the main shutoff if you can’t isolate the shower supply.
- Be cautious with hot water—run cold first when testing to avoid scald risk.
- Avoid electrical contact if water has reached lighting or outlets near the shower; turn power off at the breaker if there’s any doubt.
- If you must stop a large leak quickly, turn off the house main and call a plumber immediately.
Common Homeowner Questions
- Will this waste a lot of water? A steady drip for hours can waste a surprising amount; a slow but persistent drip adds up over days.
- Can I fix a leaking valve myself? Minor checks and tightening are fine, but replacing valves or cartridges requires skill and shutoffs—call a pro if unsure.
- Will my water pressure regulator help? If you have high pressure, a pressure-reducing valve can help; a plumber can test and advise on that option.
For more related articles, see the Dripping Showerhead After Shutoff hub.