If you’re like most people, you want and need that hot shower in the morning to clear the cobwebs. Undoubtedly, you know that you need the right water heater to make sure you and your other family members get enough hot water. But another key factor to consider is your showerhead. Here are a few thoughts.
Spray Patterns
Many showerheads come with only one spray pattern, although most come with multiple patterns. Including:
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Wide coverage that feels like a drenching rain
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A drenching pattern ideal for rinsing shampoo
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A targeted pattern that produces a sharp spray that feels great on sore muscles
Types of Showerheads
There are four types of showerheads.
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Standard wall-mount showerheads are what most people have. They are easy to install and will generally work with your existing plumbing. They can include extra features including the ability to adjust form pulsing to mists. They are generally the least expensive – sometimes costing as little as $20.
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Hand-held showerheads feature a three- to six-foot hose that makes it easier to do everything from washing your hair to reaching those hard to reach spots to even bathing kids or the dog. They also make it easy to rinse down the shower door and walls. Many are mounted on sliding bars that can adjust to various heights. They can also include extras such as multiple massage jets and spray patterns. They work with existing plumbing and are more expensive than wall-mount showerheads.
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Top-mount showerheads – aka rain showers – are generally considered more stylish and high-end. They are suspended by a pendant or flush-mounted to the ceiling and as a result the water “rains” down. In addition to the enjoyable shower experience, these also work well in showers where the ceilings are too low for wall-mounted fixtures. Like other types of heads, they are available with single or multiple spray patterns. However, installing a top-mount showerhead can require expensive upgrades to existing plumbing. The price range varies from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
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Body sprays and spa shower panels allow you to recreate a hydrotherapy spa treatment by adding body sprays or multi-shower panels. They are usually installed in vertical rows on opposite or adjacent rows, and are generally set at shoulder, hip and knee levels. So when installing, consider the size of each user. These require extensive plumbing work, and usually are only added as part of a complete renovation.
Other Factors
Here are a few other considerations:
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Look for showerheads with a WaterSense label to conserve water
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Consider whether your water heater can handle the water flow from multiple users. Keep this in mind when purchasing a new water heater
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Showerheads are available in multiple materials and finishes. Choose the material and finish that are right for you
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If you want to add sound to your shower experience, consider a showerhead with a built-in wireless speaker
