Showerhead Buying Guide

Understanding flow rate

To get the most comfortable shower, you need to consider a showerhead’s flow rate. Flow rate is the velocity of water delivered by the showerhead, measured in gallons per minute (gpm). Velocity is affected by water pressure, which is the amount of force exerted per square inch of internal pipe space, or pounds per square inch (psi). 

The 1992 Energy Policy Conservation Act (EPCA) established a national water efficiency standard for showerheads manufactured after January 1, 1994, that limits the maximum flow rate to 2.5 gpm at a water pressure of 80 psi. If you have low water pressure, look for a showerhead that features a flow regulator that adjusts the flow rate up to 2.5 gpm if the water pressure is less than 80 psi. 

To conserve water with every shower, choose a low-flow showerhead. These eco-friendly showerheads reduce the amount of water used—and the energy required to heat it—by 25% to 60% per average shower.

Low-flow showerheads may be laminar flow or aerating. Laminar flow showerheads split the water into dozens of parallel streams with a smooth, consistent flow and release less moisture into the air. Aerating showerheads mix air and water into a high-velocity spray that feels stronger than the water would by itself. If you like a hot shower, avoid aerating showerheads as the water temperature can drop by as much as 15 degrees Fahrenheit on its journey from the pipe to your body.

If you have extremely low water pressure, you might consider a maximum-flow showerhead. Maximum-flow showerheads have either multiple heads or removable water restrictors that compensate for low pressure by increasing pressure in the showerhead.

Showerhead types

Wall-mounted showerheads are the most familiar and the easiest to install—installation can be done by just about anyone. Wall-mounted showerheads also tend to be the most affordable, starting at about $8, although their range of movement may be limiting for households with small children, seniors or those with disabilities.

Handheld showerheads consist of a hose and bar where the showerhead can remain in the shower arm or, as the name implies, be held in your hand while you shower. The bars are available in 24-, 36- and 48-inch lengths, and the height of the showerhead holder can be adjusted along the bar, making this showerhead style suitable for anyone, including children and the disabled. Handheld showerheads allow you to shower without getting your hair wet and make cleaning and rinsing the shower walls easy. Look for handheld showerheads with cushioned or textured handles that stay firmly in the grip of wet, soapy hands and a rubber boot to protect the joint between the showerhead and the shower arm.

Ceiling-mounted showerheads are the latest trend in bathroom design. Most ceiling-mounted showerheads feature rain shower (vertical) or jethead (horizontal) spray patterns, making them larger in size than traditional wall-mounted or handheld showerheads. Specialty sprays combined with sleek, modern design contribute to their appeal, but your shower/tub needs to be large enough to contain the water as the spray diameter is much greater than other showerheads.

If you’re considering a ceiling-mounted showerhead, consult a plumber first. Ceiling-mounted showerheads often require consistent high water pressure to function properly, so you’ll want to be sure your current plumbing is up to the task. Ceiling-mounted showerheads require professional mounting and may need in-wall plumbing changes that add significantly to the cost of showerhead replacement.

Spray patterns

You can vary your shower experience greatly by choosing a showerhead with several spray patterns. Most showerheads feature a variety of spray patterns, including massage, mist and trickle. The showerhead spray patterns you choose will likely come down to personal preference, but be sure to choose a showerhead that offers at least two wide, even spray patterns for washing and rinsing. Look for designs that make it easy to switch patterns with wet hands. Large dial adjustments are better than small ones and dials in general are better if you dislike fussing with lever or push-button controls.

Finishes

Showerheads are available in traditional plastic and chrome along with a variety of metals that can add significantly to the showerhead’s price. Don’t choose a finish based solely on décor, however. Consider how a finish responds to your water’s mineral content, water spots and fingerprints.

If you have hard water, plastic showerheads are the most resistant to damage and the easiest to clean. If you're looking at polished-brass and chrome fixtures, check to see if protective coatings are available. Non-tarnish coatings, called PVD (physical vapor deposition) won’t react to the minerals in either your water or your cleaning products. You’ll pay more for it, but it’s worth it if you’re investing a quality showerhead and want to keep its looks. Lastly, you’ll want to know whether the finish you choose requires special cleaning products and if they’re readily available so you can care for it properly.

Showerhead extras

Antiscald fittings are a must for a new showerhead, particularly if you live in an older home with weak water pressure. Building codes now require that antiscald protection be integrated into household plumbing, making this a lesser concern for newer homes.

If tall people will be using the shower, look for shower arm extenders that attach to any standard shower arm. These extenders adjust vertically, eliminating the debate over how high to mount the showerhead. Another option is a showerhead with a bendable arm.

If you have skin sensitivities or other allergies, showerheads with replaceable water filters remove chlorine and other contaminants and irritants from your shower water. Just make sure the filters you choose are easy to find so that you don’t have to go without.

Need to know more?

• How to Fix a Leaky Showerhead
  http://www.showerstore.com/support/fix-leaks.html
• Install a New Showerhead
  http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/ba_faucets_fixtures/article/0,,DIY_13710_2272541,00.htm
• Is a Low-Flow Showerhead a Good Investment for You?
  http://www.care2.com/greenliving/switch-your-showerhead-to-save-water.html