Choosing the most comfortable and practical showerhead requires considering essential factors such as local water pressure, optimal showering conditions, a spray-saving feature, and water quality. As the expert plumber in Geelong stated, the water is usually hard, impacting the shower head, skin, and hair.
This blog will provide tips on selecting the right showerhead for your home, drawing on the insights of experienced plumbers since this is not a casual purchase.
1. Consider Water Pressure
Some regions have high water pressure, while others have low pressure, making installing this showerhead an essential consideration in Geelong.
- Low Pressure: To get high pressure in your home when showering and washing, look for high-pressure showerheads. Some models incorporate air injection technology to help increase the flow rate, although they use less water. Look for showerheads that offer pressure-boosting modes, or buy a showerhead with two functions – the handheld and regular showerhead with the option to switch.
- High Pressure: If you use water with high pressure, a flow restrictor or an adjustable shower head with a pattern less harsh than what you currently use can help reduce water wastage when showering.
2. Water Efficiency
Showerheads that conserve water are perfect for the environment and the pocket. Water usage is limited, particularly in the dry season; thus, the unit conserves water, making it affordable and environmentally friendly.
- Water Efficiency Rating: Choose models with a WELS rating of at least three stars. These can reduce water usage without sacrificing performance.
- Flow Rate: Most modern showerheads have a flow rate of 7.5 to 9 litres per minute, but some high-efficiency models go lower. Aim for a showerhead that delivers around 6-7.5L/min for a balance of comfort and efficiency.
3. Showerhead Type
Different types of showerheads offer varying experiences. Here’s a breakdown:
- Fixed Showerheads: These are hung on the wall or ceiling and are most appropriate for those who want a steady position while showering. They can come with adjustable spray patterns suitable for higher water pressure.
- Handheld Showerhead: These are convenient and perfect, especially for clients who prefer a shower that meets their unique needs and preferences. They are also simple for showering pets and children and cleaning the shower zone.
- Rain Showerhead: If somebody wants to spend hours in the shower and feel royal, a rain showerhead provides a broad and soft shower. It is most useful in systems with high water pressure but not so valuable for homes with low water pressure.
4. Showerhead Material and Build Quality
It is essential to note that Geelong has rather hard water, which means the water in that region contains a relatively high depot of calcium and magnesium. That is, they can be filled with mineral deposits which in turn retards the flow of water that comes out of shower heads.
- Metallic Construction: In this case, materials such as stainless steel and brass should be used to avoid corrosion of other, more vulnerable materials. It encompasses rough, non-porous materials, is easier to clean than smooth materials, and does not deposit minerals quickly.
- Anti-Scale Technology: Some others are even provided with anti-scale nozzles, which are needed primarily to reduce lime formation. This is an excellent feature for dealing with hard water.
5. Spray Patterns and Features
Choose a showerhead with versatile spray patterns to match your shower preferences. Many modern showerheads come with a variety of settings, such as:
- Massage: For a soothing or invigorating experience.
- Rainfall: For a soft, full-body coverage experience.
- Mist: For a gentler, lighter spray.
- Jet/Power Spray: For higher-pressure cleaning or rinsing.
Look for a multi-function showerhead to switch between different spray patterns.
6. Installation Compatibility
Consider the type of installation your bathroom has. Most showerheads in Geelong are standard, but if upgrading or remodelling, ensure the new model fits your existing plumbing setup. Some showerheads come with adjustable arms or extensions to help with positioning.
- Standard Mount: If you are replacing an existing fixed showerhead, most models will fit the standard 1/2-inch threaded pipe.
- Ceiling-Mounted: Check that your ceiling can support the fixture and plumbing for a rain showerhead.
7. Consider Your Budget
Showerheads are available in various models. A good-quality showerhead costs between $30 and $200 and above. It may seem surprising to select a more affordable product, but choosing the finest showerhead that is lasting, water-effective, and high-performance will help you save on water bills and regular maintenance.
8. Read Reviews and Ask for Recommendations
- Customer Reviews: However, wait to place your final order before you look at some of the online reviews and ratings of the specific models. In most cases, customers are ready to state the duration of product usage, frequency of installation, and water saving that is possible with the product.
- Consult Local Experts: Visit nearby hardware stores, where you can consult with experts about which products suit Geelong Water and your specific home plumbing needs.
9. Popular Brands and Models in Australia
- Caroma: Known for its durable, water-efficient showerheads, widely used in Australia.
- Astra Walker: Offers high-end luxury products.
- Kohler: Offers a range of water-saving and high-performance showerheads.
- Grohe: Known for modern, high-quality showerheads with versatile spray settings.
10. Pay Attention to Flow Restrictors
These fixtures reduce the amount of water coming through the showerhead to save water. Modern shower heads already have built-in flow restrictors, so adding a flow-restricting shower head will only be unnecessary since it is already in place.
Most showerheads are designed with a flow restrictor, which can be adjusted from the adjustable showerheads.
11. Budget Considerations
Showerhead prices range from $50 for the most basic model to $200 for the most luxurious. Locating the cheaper showerheads is always appealing since it reduces costs but may reduce showerhead performance and longevity.
Low-cost models that are still reasonable are comparatively inexpensive, but there are more expensive brands, such as Kohler and Grohe, that offer functions and durability.
Final Thoughts
Expert plumbers in Geelong possess ample experience to guide you in making the best choice for hard water, low or high pressure, or any other challenges you may encounter. From soothing rain showers to those focused solely on economy, there is always a showerhead that perfectly fits your home. Investing time in ensuring you select the right showerhead for each type in your residence is worthwhile.
