A shower head replacement can be an affordable way to take your showers from mundane chore to mini spa moment. Over time, shower heads can become clogged with hard water residue and suffer reduced spraying capacity, or just straight-up break. If you’re looking to install a new shower head, get in touch so we can help you choose from the many types of shower heads available, and install your new fixture quickly (and correctly).
Shower Head Types:
There are now many types of shower heads to choose from and different features to consider.
Fixed: A fixed showerhead is one that is attached to the shower arm that comes out of the wall.
Hand-held: A hand-held showerhead is connected to a long hose, and it sits in a cradle when it is not in your hand.
Water saving: A water-saving showerhead can use as little as 1 gpm.
Massage or spray pattern: There are many spray patterns available in massage type shower heads.
Rain: Rain showerheads are often an overhead style, meaning you need to be able to be directly under it for best results.
Dual (fixed and hand): Can’t decide on a wand or fixed type showerhead? Then how about both. These shower heads come in many shapes and forms—in fact some are even integrated to appear like only one shower head, but include an inner piece that pulls out to be used as a wand. The best of both worlds!
Body sprayers: You can find body sprays in some custom showers. They require a special type of shower valve and sprayer to be installed inside the wall, so they usually are added in new construction or during a major bathroom renovation.
Slide bar: A slide bar shower fixture is mounted on the wall of the shower and can be used to adjust the height of the showerhead easily.
Pro Tip:
The shower head flow rate is one thing that differentiates the different types of shower heads. The flow rate of a showerhead is the measure of gallons per minute (gpm) that a shower head dispenses. According to federal regulations, shower heads cannot produce more than 2.5 gpm at 80 psi (pounds per square inch).
Do all shower heads have flow restrictors?
Most shower heads have flow restrictors to control the amount of water that flows from them to ensure water conservation.
Should I remove shower head flow restrictor?
The National Energy Act requires that shower head manufacturers install a flow restrictor or flow controller in shower heads. Removing the water restrictor will return your shower pressure to normal, but it may also increase your water bills.
Why does my shower head have low pressure?
Low pressure in a shower can be caused by several issues such as a clogged showerhead, a worn-out mixing valve, closed valve, leaking pipe, or even a faulty water heater.
How do you know if you have low water pressure?
- Find a 4.5 litre (1 gallon) bucket.
- Make sure all other taps and appliances using water in your home are turned off, and no one is flushing the toilet.
- Start a timer and fill the bucket with water from one tap in your home. It should take about 30 seconds to fill the bucket with water. If it takes longer to fill then it’s likely you have a water pressure or flow issue.
Need a New Shower Head?
We can help you!
Book a time for your shower head installation
Contact us today to get a quote or book a time for us to install your shower head. We provide fast, reliable service in Calgary, Airdrie and the surrounding area.
