How to Shop For the Best Shower Head for You

1. Consider what you currently like in a shower head. Think carefully about your needs as you are planning your new shower head purchase. What is your preferred water pressure? Do you like the ability to switch from a light rainfall-like experience to a powerful burst mode to lessen back pain or did you forget your shower head has more than one setting? Do you like to get in and out quickly via powerful jet of water that whittles down shower time to mere minutes or is luxuriating more your style? Will you use your shower head for washing pets? Who else will use this shower and what are their preferences? Make a list of the answers and take it with you while shopping or have it handy for online browsing.

2. Decide on your price range by considering what to expect from shower heads on the low end of the price range, the middle and the upper end. The price range for shower heads generally runs from about $50 to $350+. Before you discount those on the higher end, keep in mind that the more expensive ones will often save you money in the long run. These shower heads tend to come with better water-saving technology. However, that can also be found in the mid-price range, if you know where to look. Many in this range are made with ceramic and brass pieces that last much longer and stand up to frequent use the best. This means you probably won’t need to plan to spend a lot on future maintenance. Those in the upper and middle ranges have different spray patterns and levels of pressure – the variety will likely grow the more you’re willing to spend. Cheaper shower heads tend to be made with plastic interior pieces, have less options and faster water flow, but your water and maintenance bill may show some strain. If you simply want a stationary shower head with few options and aren’t concerned with longevity, then a cheaper shower head is right for you. If not, look to the mid-range models or higher.

3. Try to match the finish of the other faucets and fixtures in the bathroom if possible. Although a beautiful faucet is in the eye of the beholder, good design is good design and consistency is key. If your sink faucets and towel bars have a chrome finish, it is best to choose a shower head that is also chrome. If finding a shower head with the same finish is not possible due to financial or practical reasons, other designs can be complementary. For example, a matte black finish can match well with chrome for a modern, striking look. Brushed nickel has a soft tint when compared to chrome, so choose brushed gold for a nice pairing. Observe the current style in your bathroom as well and match accordingly – uber-modern and traditional rarely coexist peacefully unless you are a master at eclectic design.

4. Learn about the types of shower heads available. A rainfall shower head will give you a relaxing stream of water from directly overhead. Installing a ceiling shower head is not even a requirement anymore, so if you like the idea and have the ceiling height for it, then the rain shower head is for you. If you don’t have the height needed or don’t care to hold your breath, even a little, then a traditional wall-mounted shower head is a better choice. Adjustable shower heads allow you to switch between different spray patterns and intensities. Handheld types give you the freedom to rinse thoroughly from different angles, which make them especially handy for washing pets and cleaning the shower. Fixed shower heads are stationary and are best for those who do not have pressing needs for flexibility in their shower. For the ultimate freedom, dual shower heads have both a fixed option as well as a handheld option.

5. Do you need a shower set? Shower heads can be purchased alone or in a set. Sets generally come with a wall mount, shower arm, shower head, and shower hose as well as a control lever and finishing plates. What do you have currently? Unless you’re about to overhaul your shower entirely, you’ll need to stick to what the plumbing calls for or match the lever at least.

6. Take earth-friendly water-conservation into consideration. Conserving water is important to the earth and likely to your personal finances. Luckily, it’s now possible to get a shower head that’s both powerful and conserves water. Low-flow, high-performance shower heads provide the feeling of a full-pressure shower with half the water used. Simplified, specialty aerators mix air with water to cut back on the needed water. Pioneer has engineered Lux-Flow technology that provides a “must-see-to-believe” experience.

7. Be sure to measure correctly. Taking note of your current shower’s plumbing placements is crucial to choosing the shower head or set that fits your shower’s installation requirements. Note the distance between the shower arm and the ceiling, the diameter of the shower arm, and the dimensions of your shower. Once you know your shower’s vital measurements, you can get started on your purchase and installation. If your new shower head involves shifting to a rainfall type from a fixed or detachable wall-mounted type, for example, consider getting it professionally installed. Otherwise, DIYers can take care of many installations as long as the manufacturer has made it easy for you.

Now that you are more familiar with everything from measurements to prices to styles, and you’ve discovered what it is that you want and need in a shower head, it’s time to get out there and have some fun. After all, the fun factor of getting a new shower head or shower set shouldn’t be overlooked. Enjoy!

There are many ways to the same destination. This saying applies to multifamily housing builds just as much as to anything else in life. The ultimate goal is save as much money as possible while delivering a great finished project – that’s simply showing smart business sense. But, finding a one-off deal or sacrificing quality isn’t the only way to get a healthy ROI. We have a better way.

Pioneer works with professionals every day to develop specification packages and plans that save our valued partners both time and money, sometimes in surprising ways. It’s our goal to ensure your project meets or exceeds its expected outcome. We want to get to know you and your company and show you how we can save you money.  Please reach out via our website form or call us at (800) 338-9468.