Whether you’re planning to remodel your bathroom or simply need to upgrade your showering experience, a new shower head is an easy and affordable way to make a change.
Certain shower heads may lower your water usage by as much as 2,700 gallons per year, according to the EPA.
So, what are the best shower heads, and how do you know which one is right for you? Read on to learn more about this important appliance so you can find the one that works best for your lifestyle and your showering habits.
The Best Shower Heads: What to Look For
Before you start shopping for a new showerhead, there are a few key things to look out for during your search. First, pay close attention to the flow rate. This will tell you whether or not the new shower head produces a weak or a powerful jet.
It’s important to note that no new showerheads are allowed to have a flow rate above 2.5 GPM or gallons per minute. Generally, the higher the GPM, the more powerful the flow rate will be.
Next, you’ll want to look at the different features available like a removable head, various settings, and how it will be installed. You should also consider the size of the showerhead itself. A waterfall shower head will have a lot more coverage than one made in a standard size, for example.
Examine the ease of installation, although most showerheads simply screw onto the plumbing. Finally, make sure you select a showerhead that comes in a finish you like or one that matches the rest of the fixtures in your bathroom.
Single Handle, Dual, and Fixed Shower Heads
The three most common types of showerheads are single handled, dual (or combination), and fixed. A single-handled showerhead is the most popular option and usually comes with a holder and a detachable hose. You can mount the shower heads to an existing fixture or slide, and the flexible hose makes washing off easier.
A combination or dual showerhead features a fixed and handheld design together. You can find these at most home improvement stores and they usually come with everything you need for easy installation including a diverter mount and hose.
A fixed showerhead can’t be removed from the slide and doesn’t have a flexible hose. However, these showerheads typically come with several settings so you can control the flow and the water pattern.
If you have kids or pets, a dual or single-handled showerhead is a great choice since it gives you flexibility. The fixed showerhead works best in smaller showers or if you only need to rinse off without a detachable hose and head.
Rain or Waterfall Shower Heads
If you want to create a luxurious experience, a rain or waterfall shower head is a great option. These showerheads have a much larger surface area that recreates the feeling of standing under a waterfall or in a rain shower.
You can affix your waterfall shower head to the ceiling or attach it to the wall of your shower using a metal arm. Most of these showerheads extend up to 1.5 feet from the wall so you can stand completely underneath it while showering.
When shopping for a rain or waterfall showerhead, make sure you choose the single function option whenever possible. Since these showerheads tend to be mounted on the ceiling, you won’t be able to adjust the setting.
However, if your rain or waterfall shower head is mounted to the wall, then a multi-function option is fine. This allows you to change the flow to a variety of settings like pulse, massage, or gentle flow, for example. The best shower heads will give you the look and the functionality you need to create an enjoyable showering experience.
High-End Shower Heads
If you’re looking to create a luxurious, spa-like experience, consider shower columns, or showerheads with extra features like LED lighting. Shower columns attach to the wall and feature sleek hardware that extends from the top to about midway down or all the way to the floor.
Some showerheads even include wireless Bluetooth speakers so you can listen to music while showering. If you want a massaging experience, be sure to install a high-pressure shower head so that you’re getting the best flow of water possible.
Other extras may include temperature adjustment that allows you to increase or reduce the water temperature as you shower. Look for something with massaging jets that will help you relax at the end of a long, hard day.
Most luxury showerheads are dual or combination designs since they offer you more options. These showerheads typically have one overhead showerhead, and one handheld nozzle you can remove from the base.
Low-Flow Shower Heads
If your goal is to conserve water, then a low-flow showerhead is a good option. This design produces water at a low flow rate, which can offer significant savings on your water bill.
Make sure that you select a high-quality showerhead brand if you go the low-flow route. These showerheads are easy to install and typically come in a wide range of finishes like chrome, brushed nickel, or bronze.
Generally, a basic low-flow showerhead will cost much less than a high-end or waterfall showerhead will. They’re also quite easy to install and can typically be screwed right onto your plumbing, then sealed with Teflon tape.
Upgrade Your Shower
The best shower heads will give you the experience you’re looking for while adding an attractive look to your bathroom. Whether it’s a waterfall, luxury, or dual showerhead, explore the variety of options available to help you find the perfect one for you.
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