Shower Heads

Guide To Shower Heads

The shower heads that are manufactured today differ from the simple piece of equipment that had a few holes in it to deliver a spray. The one thing that all of our selection have in common, is that they are designed and engineered to the highest possible standard that doesn’t compromise on quality.

There are basically two styles of shower head, fixed and hand held. Both of these can deliver a fixed spray or one that is adjustable to give multiple spray patterns.

Perhaps it is a simple replacement head that you need, if so then for a very low cost we can supply a quality single-function shower head from Roper Rhodes. Another hand held shower head is the Hansgrohe Crometta 100 Vario which will change the pattern of spray from a broad relaxing spray to the refreshing air/water mix of the RainAir setting, and an invigorating massage setting.

No longer is the shower head restricted to a round shape, today we can have on overhead fixed spray that is square, star shaped or highly contemporary oblong in appearance. Eco shower heads are now common and finding favour as we endeavour to preserve water and fuel. Another stunning design in shower heads is the Crosswater Rio which incorporates either blue or white LED lighting. Shower heads really have changed in the recent past and we are delighted to illustrate the new look her at our website.

How Do I know Which Shower Head I Need?

We have put together handy guide to the different types of shower heads you might find. Hopefully this will make your decision a lot easier.

Most exposed shower kits and electric showers will include the shower head or heads with them. In most cases you can change the head as the fittings on the hoses are identical, so you will be able to swap it if you want to upgrade the head, or replace it in the future. When ordering a concealed shower valve you will not normally be limited by what shower head to use. Using a suitable shower valve, you will be able to create multiple different combinations, depending on your needs:

• Valve & Fixed Head
• Valve & Handset
• Valve Fixed Head & Handset
• Valve Fixed Head & Body Jets

Heads can be separated into 3 main groups fixed, riser rails & baton showers.

Fixed Shower Heads

Fixed shower heads are typically mounted to either the wall or the ceiling and vary from 50mm up to 1 or 2 meters. Although it’s a very rare occurrence when someone gets a meter square shower, but they really do look breath-taking.

The majority of fixed shower heads are exactly as you would expect, round on a fixed shower arm. However we are seeing more square and rectangular heads entering the market. Both the square and rectangular heads brilliantly compliment more angular valves and bathrooms. The oblong shape is great for getting a complete shower as it covers your shoulders as well as your head (great for washing your hair).

Depending on the size of the head they can generally be mounted on the celling or the wall. Most manufacturers will have the options for both, as they generally have a universal thread. On the site you might find some showers with the arms included and some without, this will always be covered in the description and has been done to provide options for everyone.

Overall fixed showers are great for those looking for a large showering area, and an essential when having a larger wet room. They are also particular handy for tall people as you can mount them as high as you want (no more squatting under the shower).

Handsets/Handshowers

Generally smaller and with less of a spray profile over the fixed head showers, handsets are perfect for use with a riser rail kit or with a fixed shower holder. They can be used as your main shower, or if you have a diverter as a separate body wash to use in conjunction with you fixed head. They may not be as big as the larger fixed head but they are still can be packed with plenty of features, and give you more flexibility in your bathroom.

Baton/Pencil Showers

These heads are generally found on bath shower mixers and in conjunction with other heads. They are normally single function and have a very limited spray profile. They are typically used to rinse down the bath or shower after use, keeping everything looking as fresh as the day it was installed.

If you are intending to use one with a bath, you can get specially designed mounts that allow the handset and hose to retract into the bath, and avoid the tangle of stray shower hoses.

What are Multi-function Shower Heads?

Both fixed heads and handsets are available with multiple functions. This means different types of spray from the shower head. Typically you would control this by turning part if the head, but manufacturers like Hansgrohe are leading the way by using a mechanical switch that cycles through the spray options. It’s one of those features you cannot believe existed before as it means you can easily find the spray you are looking for without your hand slipping round a soapy shower head.

Once of the most asked for features that our customer request are heads with aerated sprays. This was technique pioneered by Hansgrohe where they infuse the water with air to make larger droplets. The difference can be dramatic as you feel you are being showered in natural rain. The experience if far more reminiscent of being in a spar with a massaging relaxing shower, than some of the more traditional fine sprays, which feel like they could strip paint.

One of the most striking spray patterns is the waterfall. You will see this on rectangular fixed heads, and it can really be a signature feature of your bathroom. Also, there is nothing like being a deluge of water like that to take you away from where you are for a moment.