Totally agree on the water pressure thing—high pressure can really chew through fixtures. Another thing to consider is mineral buildup, especially if you're in a hard water area. Deposits can sneakily weaken threads and seals over time. I've had luck soaking showerheads in vinegar every few months—it clears out the gunk and keeps things running smoothly. Plus, it's eco-friendly and cheap...win-win.
Vinegar soak can help, sure...but if it's spraying everywhere, might be past that point. I'd pull the showerhead off and check the washer or O-ring—cheap fix if that's your issue. Worth a quick look before you buy new hardware.
Had a similar issue with one of my rentals last year—tenant called me in a panic because water was shooting sideways more than down, lol. Turned out it wasn't just buildup or the washer; the showerhead itself had tiny cracks around the threading causing weird spray patterns. Quick swap-out solved it. Definitely check the washer first (cheap and easy), but don't rule out hairline cracks in the plastic or metal fittings—especially if it's an older head that's seen better days.
"Definitely check the washer first (cheap and easy), but don't rule out hairline cracks in the plastic or metal fittings—especially if it's an older head that's seen better days."
Good call on the hairline cracks. Had something similar happen at one of my places a couple years back. Tenant described it as "showering under a sprinkler," which made me chuckle until I saw it myself... water was literally spraying everywhere except straight down. Washer was fine, buildup minimal, but turns out the threading inside the shower arm itself had corroded slightly, causing tiny gaps that messed up the water flow. Ended up replacing both the showerhead and arm just to be safe—problem solved instantly.
Might be worth checking the arm too if swapping out washers or heads doesn't do the trick. Older plumbing fixtures can get sneaky corrosion issues you wouldn't expect at first glance.
Good points about the arm corrosion. Had a similar issue last winter, drove me nuts for a couple weeks. Replaced washers, cleaned buildup—still spraying sideways. Eventually found out the shower arm itself had tiny pinholes from corrosion inside. Never would've guessed it at first glance since it looked fine externally.
"Older plumbing fixtures can get sneaky corrosion issues you wouldn't expect at first glance."
Exactly this. Mine looked totally normal until I took it off and shined a flashlight inside—then the problem was obvious. Ended up swapping out the arm completely, and boom, back to normal showers again. Did you notice any discoloration or rust-colored streaks around the fittings? That was my only clue beforehand, subtle but definitely there...
