The 5 Options You Have When Replacing Your Showerhead

It looks like that nice warm summer we had has disappeared on us, so it’s time to slowly start cozying up and getting ready for our winter hibernation. Now, what better way to get warm in those cold winter months than taking a long, hot, shower! Today, we’re going to be talking about what your options are, and how to easily replace your shower head – something that can make an old shower feel brand new! From what I’ve seen, a lot of you have a shower that sprays in 18 different directions, is filled with calcium, and is due for an upgrade.

First, lets talk about all of the different options you have when choosing a new shower head. There are 5 common types we can briefly go over here:

1. Fixed shower heads: Fixed shower heads are those that attach directly to the “shower arm” (that pipe coming out of the wall) and can be angled in most directions. As the name states, they are “fixed”, so cannot be moved. You can find different spray options, but that is about it.

2. Rain shower heads: Rain shower heads are also “fixed”, but are usually much larger and mounted in the ceiling. Many showers don’t allow for this, but they are nice to have if possible as you get a full body coverage.

3. Handheld shower heads: Handheld shower heads are also what they sound like! Usually mounted to either the shower arm or a separate bar attached to the wall, these shower heads come attached to a 60” (5 foot) hose that allows you to take the head off and move it as you please. Aside from the convenience while showering, these are also nice for cleaning!

4. Dual shower heads: Dual shower heads combine Fixed and Handheld showers. With the combined features of both, you can detach a portion of the “fixed” shower and use it as a handheld.

5. Filtered shower heads: Lastly, if you have sensitive skin, filtered shower heads may be perfect for you. Depending on your needs, they will filter different substances from the water, leading to a more pleasant showering experience. The only downside is that the filters need to be replaced every 6-12 months, depending on use.

It’s important to know one thing when you are choosing a shower head: the larger the diameter, the lower the pressure! I have many clients complain about low pressure in their showers, but they are trying to use a showerhead with a 12” diameter (maybe 3x larger than “normal”). If pressure is an issue in your home, opt for a smaller head.

Lastly, the act of physically replacing your shower head is quite simple. In most cases, it is a “screw off, screw on” type of thing. If at all possible, it is easiest (and safest) to leave the shower arm coming from the wall in place. Unscrewing that can lead to unknown leaks behind the wall. Most shower heads will come with a set of rubber gaskets – if this is the case, there is no need for that pink or white tape you all use! Just make sure it is tight enough that it doesn’t drip when it’s in use and voila – a new showering experience!