All About Shower Heads

Changing your shower head is a project that many do it yourselfers can do in very little time. You can install a massaging shower head. Changing your shower head can help save water. You may also consider changing the shower head during remodeling. Use this guide to assist you in selecting a shower head.

Massaging Shower Heads

Massaging shower heads use water pressure forced through a diverting valve to create one or more pulsating water actions.

In most cases, users can vary the amount of pulsing pressure or force to their liking. Massaging shower heads can be hand-held or permanently mounted. While all offer massaging action of one or more kinds, they can be converted to conventional shower action.

Standard Shower Heads

Most standard shower heads have full range adjustable sprays and feature self-cleaning rims and swivel ball joints. High-quality shower heads are chrome plated while economy models have plastic faceplates.

Single control units can be used with any built-in shower. One knob controls both water temperature and flow. This allows water temperature to be set permanently. Water can be turned off, then on again, without changing the temperature setting.

Continental Showers

A continental shower head is a versatile wall and hand shower combined. Top quality brands feature on-off flow control built into the handle, a brass pushbutton diverter valve that permits instant switch from shower head to hand shower, 6' flexible hose and hang-up bracket. It can be attached to existing shower arms.

Safety Considerations

Some local and regional codes mandate the installation of anti-scald shower or tub/shower valves in multifamily or transient areas such as hotels and health clubs. By protecting against sudden changes in pressure or temperature, injuries caused by burns or falls can be prevented.

Tub/shower models are available that automatically provide consistent water temperature regardless of changes in water pressure. Advise contractors to check local plumbing codes for compliance requirements.

DISCLAIMER: Check your state and local codes before starting any project. Follow all safety precautions. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and safety of the information in this document. Neither NRHA, any contributor nor Aubuchon Hardware can be held responsible for damages or injuries resulting from the use of the information in this document.

National Retail Hardware Association

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