LITTLE ROCK — The shower in one of my bathrooms has begun to make a high pitched noise whenever it’s running.
Why is it doing this? Is this a serious problem and what can I do to fix it?
A whistling shower head is usually caused by a buildup of hard water deposits inside the small holes of the fixture, says Tim Hennelly, owner of Casa Buena House Inspections in Little Rock.
When the small openings of the shower head become partially plugged by these water deposits, the result is the annoying squealing and the usually uniform spray being interrupted with random water streaks and sprays spouting off sideways instead of downward.
How can you solve this problem without calling a handyman?
Hennelly recommends soaking the shower head in a plastic storage bag filled with a hard water scale removal product that includes an acid-based chemical or household vinegar.
To remove the shower head, turn the connector counterclockwise. To do this, pliers or a small wrench may be needed.
Before removing it, place a rag under the wrench to protect the shower head’s metal plating from being damaged.
For an easier fix, simply soak the shower head in place by tying the solution-filled bag around the pipe that leads to the shower head.
When using chemicals, be sure to follow the label’s directions.
After soaking the shower head, rub it with a rough cloth or use a toothpick to clear away the remaining debris and hard deposits.
Do you have a decorating or remodeling question? We’ll get you an answer from an authority. Send your question to Linda S. Caillouet, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, P.O. Box 2221, Little Rock, Ark. 72203 or e-mail:
HomeStyle, Pages 37 on 09/22/2012