Introduction:
Choosing a shower head is no less important than buying a mixer or tiles. The comfort, functionality and aesthetics of your shower depend on this element. In this article, we will analyze the main points that you should pay attention to when choosing a shower head, from its purpose to additional functions, and give advice on choosing the best models.
Purpose of the shower head
The first step is to determine what you need the shower head for. Different types of shower heads serve different purposes, and your choice should match your shower type.
- Hand shower: Compact shower heads that are comfortable to hold. Ideal for baths and showers.
- Overhead Shower: Large shower heads that are mounted to a wall or ceiling and provide a stream of water from above.
- Tropical shower: This is a type of overhead shower with a wider diameter and a soft dispersion of water, creating a “rain” effect.
- Bidet shower: Often used in bathrooms with toilets or bidets. The push mechanism is especially important here for water saving and convenience.
Standard of piping and installation
Most shower heads have a standard ½-inch diameter connection. This will fit most hoses, but it is important to make sure that the shower head you choose meets the standards of your plumbing system. In rare cases, there may be models with non-standard connections, especially when it comes to design solutions.
Shape and dimensions of the watering can
Shower heads come in a variety of shapes, each of which can have different effects on functionality and aesthetics.
- Circle: A classic shape that fits into most interiors.
- Square: Modern design suitable for trendy styles.
- Rectangle: Elongated shower heads are often used for tropical showers.
- Oval: A softer design that will add sophistication to your bathroom.
Dimensions and weight: These parameters are especially important for hand-held watering cans. If the watering can is too heavy, it can create inconvenience when using. Heavy models are often made of metals such as brass or stainless steel, which also affects the durability of the product.
Watering can material
The material directly affects the durability and quality of the watering can:
- Stainless Steel: Very durable material that is resistant to corrosion and damage.
- Brass: Heavier than steel, but durable and corrosion resistant.
- Plastic: Lightweight and affordable material, less durable, but cheaper than metal counterparts.
- ABS plastic: An improved type of plastic with higher strength and resistance to temperature changes.
Style and color
The style of the shower head is important for the harmonious design of the bathroom:
- Contemporary style: The most popular option with minimalist shapes and chrome surfaces.
- Classic style: Suitable for interiors with an emphasis on traditional shapes and materials such as bronze or gold.
Colour options range from popular chrome and black to rarer white, bronze and gold shades. The choice of colour is important to create visual harmony with other elements of the bathroom.
Additional functions
Modern shower heads can be equipped with additional functions that increase comfort and make using the shower more enjoyable:
- Number of jet modes: The more modes, the more opportunities to customize the shower to your needs. Popular modes include massage, soft rain, and intense flow.
- Lighting: Shower heads with lighting create a relaxing atmosphere, especially in showers with poor lighting.
- Self-cleaning coating: Helps prevent scale build-up on the shower head surface.
- Anti-limescale system: Makes the shower head easier to maintain and extends its service life.
- Easy-to-clean feature: Shower heads with easy-to-clean elements reduce the need for frequent cleaning.
- Water saving: Special models that reduce water consumption while remaining comfortable to use.
Manufacturers
Choosing a reliable brand can ensure the longevity and functionality of your shower head.
Popular brands include:
- Aquatek: Known for its reliable solutions for modern interiors.
- D-Lin: Produces budget and functional models.
- Lemark: Combines stylish design and affordable prices.
- Ravak: European brand with a focus on quality and durability.
- Stworki: Distinguished by modern solutions with an emphasis on functionality.
- Timo: Produces premium models for demanding customers.
- Vidima: Budget solutions known for quality.
- Wasserkraft: A German brand specializing in reliable and durable products.
Price range
Shower head prices vary depending on the purpose, brand, material and additional features.
- Budget models: Most often made of plastic or ABS plastic.
- Middle segment: Models made of stainless steel or brass, with additional functions.
- Premium segment: Models with multiple modes, made of expensive materials, often with designer solutions.
- Hand-held watering cans are usually cheaper. In the budget segment, they cost from 400 to 1000 rubles, and in the premium segment, prices can reach 3000-4000 rubles.
- Ceiling shower heads are considerably more expensive. Even budget options start at 3,000 rubles. Premium models can cost more than 30,000 rubles, especially if we are talking about larger sizes and additional functions (for example, several jet modes or special coatings).