Rain shower head clogged
Is the spray from your rain shower getting weaker or is the water splashing everywhere? Then your rain shower head is probably clogged with limescale or dirt. Luckily, you don't have to call a plumber: with a few simple steps, you can clean your rain shower yourself and restore a full flow. This guide explains how to descale and unclog your rain shower, and how to prevent the problem from recurring.
A clogged rain shower head can have several causes:
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Limescale
The most common cause: Hard water contains limescale particles that settle in the small spray holes of the shower head . This makes it increasingly difficult for the water to flow through.
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Accumulation of dirt or sand
Sometimes small particles of dirt or sand are washed out of the water pipes. These accumulate in the shower head or the shower arm filter.
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Low water pressure
If the water pressure in your home is low, less water will come out of the shower anyway, even if the shower head is clean.
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Blockage in the flow restrictor
Many rain showers have a water-saving flow restrictor. If this becomes clogged, the flow rate decreases significantly.
Unclogging a rain shower: the complete step-by-step plan
Now you know what's clogged your rain shower head. Time to address the problem. Using the steps below, you can easily clean, descale, and get your rain shower head flowing again. This way, you'll quickly enjoy a powerful, consistent stream of water again.
Do you have a rain shower head with silicone nubs, the flexible gray dots through which the water flows?
Then gently rub the nubs with the palm of your hand. Often, the flow returns immediately. If this doesn't work, follow the steps below.
Step 1: Descale the rain shower with vinegar
Supplies:
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Cleaning vinegar or natural vinegar
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Plastic bag
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Elastic or tiewrap
Here's how to do it:
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Fill a plastic bag with cleaning vinegar.
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Hang the bag over the shower head so that all the spray holes are submerged.
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Secure with an elastic band or tiewrap.
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Allow to soak for 2 to 4 hours (overnight if there is a lot of limescale).
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Remove the bag and rinse the shower head with warm water.
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If necessary, use a soft toothbrush to remove residual limescale.
Step 2: Internal cleaning of the rain shower head
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If possible, remove the shower head.
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Rinse the inside thoroughly.
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Check the rubber filter or sieve in the connection.
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Remove dirt and limescale residue with water or a soft brush.
Step 3: Check the water pressure
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Test whether other taps in the house also have low pressure.
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Check that the main tap is fully open.
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If problems persist: call an installer.
Step 4: Clean the flow restrictor
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Consult the manual to locate the limiter.
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Carefully remove it and rinse clean.
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If damaged or defective: replace.
Your rain shower is working again!
Have you completed all the steps? Then your rain shower should now be working properly again, and you'll immediately notice a difference in the water flow. To prevent the problem from recurring, it's wise to maintain your shower head regularly. The preventative tips below will keep your rain shower head clean for longer and reduce the chance of future clogs.
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Regular descaling: at least once a month in hard water areas.
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Install a water softener: reduces limescale build-up throughout the house.
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Rinse with cold water: rinses away limescale residue faster.
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Install an additional filter: prevents dirt or sand particles from entering the shower head.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How often should I descale my rain shower?
In hard water areas: once a month. In other areas: every few months.
Can I use other cleaning products instead of vinegar?
Yes, there are special descaling agents. However, cleaning vinegar is a safe, inexpensive, and effective solution.
How do I know if water pressure is the problem?
If several taps in your home have low pressure, the problem is probably with the water pipe or main valve, not the shower head.
Does a water softener really help against limescale?
Yes, a water softener significantly reduces limescale and thus prevents blockages in your rain shower.
