Why is my shower hose leaking?
A shower hose usually leaks because a connection is loose, a small rubber washer has worn out, or the hose itself has split. The position of the spray or drip will help you identify the likely cause.
Where is the water coming from?
Run the shower briefly and watch from outside the spray. Water escaping where the hose meets the handset or shower outlet often points to a loose connection, missing washer or damaged washer. A fine spray from the middle of the hose usually means its inner tube has split.
Dry the hose first so that water running down from the handset does not disguise the source. If the leak appears behind the shower control or from inside the wall, stop testing and arrange a professional check.
Can I tighten the shower hose?
Most handset hose connections should be hand-tight. With the shower off and cool, check that the threaded collar is sitting straight and gently tighten it by hand. Do not force it with grips, as this can damage the finish, crack a fitting or distort the washer.
If the joint still leaks, the flat rubber washer inside the hose end may be worn, twisted or missing. A correct replacement washer is inexpensive, but it must be the right size and sit flat. Thread-sealing tape is not normally a substitute for the washer on this type of connection.
When should the whole hose be replaced?
Replace the hose if water sprays through its side, the outer coil is damaged, the hose is badly kinked, or a new washer does not stop the leak. Choose a suitable shower hose with compatible connections and follow the manufacturer's fitting instructions.
A new hose that still leaks may indicate damaged threads, a poor connection at the shower outlet, or unusually high pressure. Do not keep tightening the joint; ask a plumber or shower engineer to inspect it.
Is a leaking shower hose urgent?
A small hose leak only occurs while the shower is running, but it can send water beyond the tray or bath and into floors or walls. Stop using the shower if water is escaping outside the protected showering area, reaching electrical fittings, or causing staining below.
For an electric shower, do not remove the casing or attempt an internal repair. If water appears to come from the unit itself rather than the detachable hose connection, switch it off safely and use a qualified professional.
Quick shower hose checklist
- Dry the hose and identify the exact point where water first appears.
- Switch the shower off before touching or adjusting the hose.
- Check that each connection is straight and hand-tight.
- Inspect the rubber washer for damage or poor seating.
- Replace a split, kinked or badly corroded hose.
- Get help if the leak comes from the shower unit, valve or wall.