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How to Choose the Right Shower Head

Adjustable shower heads are the most popular type of shower head. They can provide a wide range from an intense skin-stinging spray to a relaxing mist to an invigorating massage. Look for one that you’ll be able to adjust with soapy slippery hands.

If you are looking for even more flexibility you can select a adjustable shower head that is handheld, providing the ability to move the shower spray around your body. Handheld shower heads are especially useful for the disabled and elderly using a shower seat, and they are also great for bathing children.

Consider Your Water Pressure & Temperature

If you have low water pressure in your home you’ll want to strongly consider purchasing an adjustable shower head so that you will be able to increase the flow level. To determine a rough estimate of the water pressure in your home you can call your local water company and ask for the static water pressure for your neighborhood. If you’d like a more precise measurement then you can buy an inexpensive (about $10) pressure gauge from the home supply store. The Uniform Plumbing Code calls for water pressures of 50 to 70 psi to residential homes, but the average water pressure in the U.S. Is closer to 45 psi. If your water pressure is less than 40 psi then you have low water pressure.

Some newer shower heads mix air with the water to make the water pressure feel more substantial, sometimes powerful enough to get the ultra high-pressure needle-like water spray. But if you like the water hot you may want to avoid aerating shower heads since they can cause the water temperature to drop by as much as 15 degrees before it reaches your body. If you like a very hot shower, and can’t safely increase your water heater’s temperature setting, then you’ll want to look at product descriptions and reviews to identify shower heads that do well with keeping the temperature high.

Consider Hard Water

If you have hard water you may find a white chalky buildup on faucets and bathroom tiles. The buildup can clog your shower head, decreasing and diverting water flow. If you have hard water that isn’t already being adequately treated by a water softener, you’ll want to find a shower head that is engineered to resist clogging. Some products specify that they have anti-hard-water features. Shower heads with rubbery nozzles make it much easier to quickly wipe away any chalky buildup. All-metal shower head designs make cleaning out any buildup much more difficult, requiring acidic cleaners and/or scraping off the buildup inside the nozzles with a pin or thumbtack.

Rain Shower Luxury

If you want to experience the feeling of natural rainfall then you should try an oversized shower head, also known as a rain shower head. These types of shower heads also provide more stylish options to go with your luxury bathroom. Rain shower heads are not without their drawbacks. Some individuals are not satisfied with the low flow rate provided by oversized shower heads. Also, since the water falls directly downwards, it isn’t always easy to target the water flow where you need it (e.g., when you want to keep your hair dry while washing your body). A rain shower’s low power and lack of precision make it more difficult to wash off shampoo and soap. Rain shower heads can also sometimes be more difficult to install and may require special parts.