Why does my shower head have weak pressure, but the tub faucet is fine?

Mineral buildup in your shower head is the most likely culprit when you have good pressure at the tub faucet but weak flow from the shower head above it.

The shower head and tub faucet share the same water supply line, so if pressure is fine at the tub, your home's water pressure isn't the issue. Mineral deposits from Ottawa's moderately hard water gradually accumulate in the tiny holes of shower heads, restricting water flow. This is especially common with older shower heads or in homes with hard water issues.

Try this simple fix first: Remove the shower head by unscrewing it counterclockwise (use a wrench with a cloth to protect the finish). Soak it overnight in white vinegar to dissolve mineral buildup, then scrub the holes with an old toothbrush. If buildup is severe, you might need to poke out individual holes with a toothpick or small wire.

Other possible causes include a clogged flow restrictor inside the shower head (a small plastic disc designed to conserve water), or buildup in the shower arm pipe itself. Some shower heads have removable flow restrictors that can be cleaned or temporarily removed to test if that's the issue.

If cleaning doesn't restore proper pressure, the internal components may be too damaged by mineral buildup, and replacement is often more cost-effective than extensive repairs. A quality new shower head typically costs $50-200 and takes about 15 minutes to install.

When to call a professional: If both the shower head and tub faucet have low pressure, or if you discover leaks when removing the shower head, you may have a supply line issue that requires a licensed plumber's attention.

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