|
|
6 Things You Should Know Before You Buy A Showerhead
1: STYLE IS KEY.
The color or finish of your showerhead should match the faucet and tub filler. Additionally, the style should have a similar look, but doesn't necessarily have to match. The showerheads of today not only offer massage, but up to 25 different spray patterns from a drenching rain to a fine mist.
2: SPRAY ME.
There are numerous showerheads available on the market. Choose a handheld version with a controlled spray to bathe children, wash a pet or help those who need to shower sitting down. Some mount on a vertical slide for versatility and allow for height differences. The wall-mounted shower is most common with an overhead shower placed on the ceiling. This may require more water to operate. Body spray showerheads are small showerheads installed in series of two or three along opposite walls. The ultimate is body mist shower with a series of jets in a single bar to gently wash the body and have adjustable force and spray patterns.
3: THE SELF CLEAN TEST.
Do you live where there is hard water? Then think about a showerhead that offers self-cleaning capabilities. Also if you live by salt water, ask about special protective coating for polished brass and chrome fixtures. You will be able to maintain the good looks without tarnish or discoloration or even pitting.
4: FLOW.
A Low-flow showerheads conserves water by restricting water flow through smaller openings. The federally mandated effort to save water has reduced the flow of showerheads to no more than 2.5 gallons per minute. Additionally, some showerhead manufacturers offer flow restriction mechanisms that reduce levels even lower. While they save water at this lower level, the water temperature may be lower than desired.
5: PRICE CHECK.
Showerheads come in a wide range of prices, anywhere from $15 to $600 and more. As a general rule, you get what you pay for. The lower priced models will offer less features and a lesser warranty, if any. Changing to an overhead shower may mean expensive plumbing renovations. If you are replacing a wall mounted showerhead, you will probably want to select another one.
6: ON GUARD.
If your shower is used by small children or older adults, you need to consider antiscald protection. However, replacing an old mixer valve with an antiscald one can be an expensive plumbing expense. Instead, think about an anitscald fitting which installs between your new shower head and the shower arm.
About the Author Steven M. Fisher is well known in the Remodeling, Building and Decorating Fields. Before you make any big purchases for your home, check out the Home Remodeling Portal where you can find information on thousands of products and manufacturers at the click of a mouse, as well as, several informative " 6 Things To Know Before You Buy..." articles.
|
 |
Please Rate: |
|
Rating: |
 Processing ... |
(Average: Not rated) |
| Views: | 20 | |
|
| More Articles from Home and Family | | |
| Top Articles in Home and Family | | |
|
