How to Clean a Clogged Faucet or Showerhead (And When to Call a Plumber)
If your showerhead sprays unevenly or your faucet water pressure seems low, you’re probably dealing with mineral buildup.
Luckily, cleaning a clogged faucet or showerhead is easier than you think — and can save you money on plumbing repairs!
In this post, the experts at Garcia Plumbing Company explain how to clean your faucets and showerheads, how to prevent future problems, and when it’s time to call a professional plumber for service.
Why Do Faucets and Showerheads Get Clogged?
Over time, minerals like calcium and magnesium from hard water build up inside your fixtures.
This mineral buildup can clog the small nozzles and aerators that control water flow.
Weak or uneven water pressure
Water spraying in strange directions
Dripping even after turning off the handle
Higher water bills due to slow leaks
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, don’t rush to replace the fixture!
First, try this simple DIY cleaning method.
How to Clean Your Showerhead or Faucet Without Removing It
You’ll need:
White vinegar
Plastic sandwich bag
Rubber band
Old toothbrush
Step-by-Step:
1. Fill the plastic bag halfway with white vinegar.
2. Place the bag over the showerhead or faucet spout so it's fully submerged in vinegar.
3. Secure the bag with a rubber band.
4. Let it soak for 2 to 4 hours (overnight if heavy buildup).
5. Remove the bag and scrub the fixture gently with a toothbrush.
6. Rinse with warm water and test water flow.Pro Tip: For faucet aerators, unscrew them by hand, soak in vinegar separately, scrub, and reinstall.
In most cases, this will restore full water pressure and fix clogged fixtures without replacing anything.
How to Prevent Hard Water Buildup on Faucets and Showerheads
Clean showerheads and faucet aerators with vinegar every 6 months
Install a whole-house water softener if you live in a hard water area
Wipe down faucets and showerheads after each use
When You Should Call a Professional Plumber
Sometimes mineral buildup causes deeper issues inside plumbing fixtures. If you notice:
Persistent dripping or leaking faucets
Low water pressure despite clean nozzles
Loose or wobbly handles
Corrosion or visible cracks around fixture bases
It’s time to call a licensed plumber. At Garcia Plumbing Company, we specialize in faucet repairs, fixture replacements, and restoring water flow in homes throughout San Francisco.
Special Offer: Save 10% on Faucet or Showerhead Repairs!
For a limited time, the first 5 customers who book online will receive 10% OFF plumbing service work under $1,000!
[Schedule Faucet or Showerhead Service Now]
Why Homeowners Trust Garcia Plumbing Company
Over 20+ years of professional plumbing experience
Fully licensed and insured (License #782787)
Honest pricing, clear communication, and clean workmanship
Local service trusted by homeowners throughout San Francisco
Keep your plumbing flowing right — and protect your home’s water system for years to come.
📞 Contact Garcia Plumbing Company Today
The Garcia Plumbing Team
License #782787
O: 415-333-1737
C: 415-613-6475
garciaplumbingcompany@gmail.com
garciaplumbingcompany.com