Why Dripping Showers Are Worse Than Taps
Our Stellenbosch handyman team offers expert repairs for dripping showers across properties in the Stellenbosch area. A dripping shower wastes hot water, which means you are paying for water, electricity or gas to heat it, and sewerage charges - triple the cost of a dripping cold tap. A shower dripping just 10 times per minute wastes over 3,000 litres per year and costs you significantly in wasted geyser heating. During water restrictions, this waste is also environmentally irresponsible and may result in fines.
Common Shower Leak Causes
Showers drip from worn mixer cartridges that no longer seal when closed, damaged rubber seals in the mixer mechanism, faulty diverter valves not fully closing, loose showerhead connections, damaged showerhead washers, mineral buildup preventing full closure, or in thermostatic mixers, failed temperature control cartridges. The leak location helps us diagnose the problem - dripping from the rose indicates one issue, while dripping from the mixer indicates another.
Our Shower Repair Process
We diagnose whether the leak is from the showerhead, hose connection, mixer valve, or diverter. For showerhead drips, we replace washers and clean mineral deposits. For mixer leaks, we replace cartridges or internal seals with quality parts that last. We carry common mixer cartridges for major brands including Grohe, Hansgrohe, Cobra, and others. Most shower repairs are completed within 1 hour, immediately stopping the drip and water waste.
Upgrading to Water-Efficient Showers
If your shower mixer is old or parts are expensive, consider upgrading to a modern water-efficient thermostatic mixer. These maintain constant temperature, use less water, are safer (no sudden hot water), and often qualify for municipal rebates during water restrictions. We install all shower types and ensure proper sealing and waterproofing to prevent future leaks.