Shower Heads: Selection Guidelines
Bathroom equipment requires a special approach. Here, even the most insignificant element should be comfortable and useful. These important details include a shower head - a small, but necessary part of each house.
Special features
Shower heads are removable for attachment to the hose and fixed. The first ones are equipped with an elastic hose and are mounted on a special holder. The latter do not need any additional mounting and are mounted directly to the wall or ceiling.
Today, the plumbing market is represented in a wide range. Various manufacturers offer a variety of models of shower heads, different in shape and size. Each of them has an individual purpose, for example,for weight loss use Charcot’s douche or Alekseeva, a soft-pressure watering can is like for everyday use, a pulsating massage jet. All of them also differ in the type of switches: it can be a push-button version or a checkbox.
Shower Heads are different in configuration. The most convenient is considered to be watering cans with a flexible hose, if necessary, the hose is easily adjusted in the desired position. As a rule, they are mounted using a special mounting on the wall, rod or on the side of the bath.
Many modern models are equipped with LED nozzles. It is known that color therapy is a great way to lift your spirits, create a certain atmosphere, set up a romantic mood. Electricity is not required for the operation of the LED nozzle, since the energy generated by the flow of water is enough. According to experts, the use of illuminated watering cans is absolutely safe, because the product is not connected to the mains.
If you want to take a shower with plenty of water, then a model of a watering can for a tropical shower would be an ideal option. It has a large size, so the water falls immediately on the whole body. On the body of the watering can there are many small nozzles that produce an intense flow, while the water pressure can be adjusted. They are usually built into the wall, but if desired, the product can play the role of a ceiling watering can.
Stationary models are complementary to the shower box and are fixed on a rack, wall or ceiling, while the latter are usually impressive in size. The shower watering can is fixed to the top shower on the bracket. It is allowed to connect the watering cans to the boiler. Such models are good because if necessary, the height of the watering can is easy to adjust. White is the traditional color of showerheads, but today most manufacturers offer products of various colors and shades. Properly selected color will add completeness and fullness to the bathroom interior.
Types and sizes
The optimal model for the upper shower is a traditional watering can built into the wall, the main advantage of which is the “hands-free” function, as it is securely fixed and does not need manual control.Although the inability to regulate the position of the watering can be attributed more to the design cons. And if the connection to the hose still makes it possible to use the shower manually, then the installation of the watering can to the chrome-plated pipe will only allow the tilt angle to be changed.
To save water consumption, models with aeration are suitable. Passing through the nozzles, the water is saturated with air, and its flow is broken into smaller particles. The standard watering can is designed for a transmission of 15 liters in 20 minutes. A water-saving model will reduce consumption by about 10 liters, while taking a shower will remain the same pleasant procedure.
For those who love massage, you should pay attention to the watering can for showers with an additional function. Such models are not uncommon for a long time and have existed on the market for many years. Modern manufacturers have gone further: today there are plastic and steel watering cans with tourmaline and coal granules on sale. Most models have a whole set of massage tips or one nozzle with adjustable water supply. One of the most popular models of massage products is the Samba watering can. The rounded shape, plastic nozzle with small holes for dispersion of pressure and a convenient handle make it a sales leader.
Watering cans for summer showers are also presented in a large assortment.Their design is much simpler than previous analogues and does not have much functionality. They are presented in the form of a standard round watering can with a tap located directly on its body. There is no thermostat, as the products are connected to a tank with heated water under the sun. When choosing watering cans for giving, you can encounter a huge range. However, practice shows that even the simplest models of summer cot dyes perfectly cope with their task.
The size of the watering can is different, there is no common standard.Each manufacturer determines these parameters independently. We can only select the most popular models - these are traditional watering cans of 6–8 cm in diameter. They are characterized by mobility and give maximum freedom of movement. Watering cans with a diameter of 20 cm will create a real waterfall, but they are not always convenient to use.
Characteristic
Every year, the plumbing market is replenished with new models of shower heads, but all of them can be divided according to the form into the following types:
- round and oval, which became a real sales hit;
- square and rectangular, demanded due to its functionality and practicality;
- triangular, beloved for their creative appearance;
- oblong watering cans, pencils that look very impressive;
- designer watering cans, presented in the form of lamps, snowflakes, rings, handsets and other original variations.
Shower watering can differ not only in shape, but also in water supply modes, among which the following should be highlighted:
- basic - represents the usual water pressure;
- “Soft stream” - water is saturated with air, and taking a shower turns into a relaxing and comfortable procedure;
- “Water mist” is a variation of the previous regime. Water flow is too small particles that look like fog;
- Massage - is an invigorating pressure of water, fed through a hole in the center of the watering can;
- “Waterfall” - a strong water pressure is more like a veil;
- monostruya - used for a contrast shower;
- vario jet - a mode that allows you to alternate soft and strong pressure;
- combined - combines several modes at once.
Recently, there is a great demand for watering cans with minerals. Semiprecious stones such as shungite or tourmaline are embedded in their designs.They may also contain flint, chlorine-absorbing granules, magnet and other minerals, which have many advantages. They not only soften water, but also reduce its consumption, ionize and absorb chlorine. The use of these watering can favorably affects the human body.
Some watering cans are equipped with a power button. This is a great option for those who want to save money, while taking a shower with comfort. There is no need to regulate the flow of water on the mixer, the buttons are usually located on the case of an economical watering can.
Another modern technology that allows you to turn a daily shower into a pleasant procedure is a thermostat. Watering cans with a thermostat are particularly convenient to use. Now you can not be afraid that suddenly pour cold or too hot water. It is enough to choose the desired temperature and the device will provide an even supply of water of a certain temperature, regardless of pressure drops in the water supply system.
Manufacturing materials
Modern manufacturers of shower heads offer a wide range of products made from a variety of materials.
- Plastic. Plastic products coated with a thin layer of metal are considered one of the most inexpensive watering cans. It is to the metallized coating that they owe their presentable appearance. In addition, they are light and even if they fall on the floor of the shower they will not do him any harm. Their main disadvantage is a short lifespan.
- Metal. In order not to have to change the watering every six months, it is better to immediately acquire a practical and functional option. Metal watering can from stainless steel will become the excellent choice and will equally well fit into any interior. If you want a more luxurious product, you can give preference to copper, bronze and brass watering cans. There are even products with gold leaf, the design of which looks simply amazing. The advantage of steel huts in their high wear resistance, ease of use, ease of cleaning. Unlike plastic analogs, they are resistant to the negative effects of bacteria and microorganisms. In this regard, products made of bronze and brass, on which mold and fungus do not form, are especially good, which is extremely important for the bathroom. The disadvantages include their considerable weight.In the event of a drop, scratches on the surface of the bathroom or shower tray are guaranteed.
- Metal-plastic. Such products are not yet popular, but their technical characteristics successfully combine all the advantages of the two previous materials. The body of such products is made of plastic, and the parts inside are made of metal.
- Stone and quartz glass. These materials are used to create designer watering cans. They are especially beautiful and able to serve for many years.
If you choose from all the listed materials, then products made of steel and copper are more suitable for daily use. Such watering cans harmoniously combine price and quality, and the model range is presented in a wide assortment with a diverse design.
Manufacturers
In order not to miscalculate with the purchase and purchase a really high-quality product, experts recommend choosing a watering can from well-known manufacturers. In pursuit of savings you should not buy Chinese-made products at low prices. Especially if you doubt their strength and reliability.
For many years, the German company is considered the leader in the sale of sanitary equipment. Hansgrohe. It produces high-quality products, but the price policy of the brand cannot be called loyal. At the same time, the choice of products is huge - square, round, oval watering cans with various modes will appeal to every customer. Of course, there are budget options in the company's assortment, but their functionality is limited.
German quality has long been very popular. Company Products Grohe implemented in dozens of countries around the world, and all thanks to the strength, reliability of products and their design. The range includes regular models, but this company is known primarily as a manufacturer of original, high-quality watering cans at an affordable price.
Plumbing Ideal standard included in the list of the most popular in Europe. The company produces high-quality shower sets, sanitary ware and bathroom accessories. Product design, as well as quality, is always on top.
Bravat - This is another company from Germany, whose products are in great demand throughout Europe. Expensive and practical products with wide functionality have been loved by many consumers and stubbornly occupy leading positions in the market.
Italian watering cans Migliore presented in a wide range. Especially distinguished collections in retro style, classic. Products of this brand will appeal to those who prefer time-tested products. Finnish plumbing has been highly valued at all times.
Company Oras gives a guarantee of quality for each product. Almost all collections are presented in the form of chrome-plated watering cans of various sizes and shapes. Original look products covered with enamel. The price range includes both budget and more expensive options.
Of the domestic manufacturers, the company stands out Aquanet. It produces high-quality products at reasonable prices and for many years continues to delight consumers with new collections. In the assortment of the company there is a model for every taste, so it is easy to choose the perfect option for a bathroom.
If we talk about plumbing known throughout the world, the primacy is to give the company's products Bradex. This Israeli company is engaged in the production of not only high-quality, but also useful products. One of its most successful developments is the “Inflow of Forces” shower head with a tourmaline filter.The range of the company is constantly expanding and improving, so it is possible that soon Bradex will release stunning innovative products.
Czech company Lemark produces watering cans adapted for use in Russia. Therefore, its products are fully consistent with the proposed technical standards. In the collections of this brand are products with one and two handles, thermostatic watering cans and models with a filter. All products are pre-tested, so the risk of purchasing low-quality goods is minimized.
Domestic company Iddis offers durable and reliable products. Despite the fact that this brand is on the market quite a bit, the quality of products has already been appreciated by hundreds of consumers. Products are sold not only in the country, but also far beyond its borders. The affordable cost of products and excellent technical characteristics make the Iddis sanitary ware one of the most popular in Russia.
The oldest manufacturers of plumbing include the company Damixa, which positions its products as functional devices for everyday use.Almost all modern plumbing products were invented by this company. Reliable and multifunctional models from Damixa can last for decades.
Tips for choosing
To take a shower was always a pleasant and comfortable procedure, you need to take care of the high quality plumbing in the house.
When choosing a particular model, there are several factors to consider.
- The method of fastening the product. It all depends on the wishes of the buyer and the functions of a particular model of watering can. It can be vertical or horizontal.
- Options. Before buying a watering can, you should first determine in which place it will be installed and which form is more suitable for a particular shower.
- Mode of operation. It is best to purchase multifunctional models of watering cans, designed for several modifications. Moreover, almost all modern models are designed for 3-4 modes.
- Material. Plastic products are cheaper, but they are not very practical and hygienic. Therefore, it is better to make a choice in favor of metal products, which are not afraid of corrosion.
- Protective functions. It is best if the body of the watering can is covered with a special alloy that will protect it from destruction under the influence of water.
- Cost This item is individual for each consumer.But it is best to choose models presented in the middle price category.
Installation and Repair
Installing a new watering can instead of an old one is a snap.
To do this, do not even need the help of a specialist, it is enough to have on hand such tools:
- pliers;
- metal brush;
- FUM tape.
Installation of watering cans should be done in the following way:
- First, you need to unscrew the watering can from the hose with pliers;
- then the hose thread must be cleaned of dirt, rust, scale and old winding;
- winding of the watering can should be wound in several layers - this will avoid spills in the joints;
- First, the watering can is screwed with hands, approximately a couple of turns, and then it is pushed down with pliers;
- not to leave scratches on the nut, you can wrap it with a thin cloth.
After installing the watering can be sure to check its performance. To do this, turn on the water and carefully watch, so that there is no unnecessary smudges anywhere. If the water still flows, you can add a little winding.
It should be noted that if the product is of high quality and the installation was carried out in compliance with all the rules, then the life of such a watering can be called durable.But it happens that inside the product begins to accumulate scale, rust, dirt, which contributes to clogging its holes. You can clean the watering can on your own, for this you should disassemble it. Old-style models are easy to unwind. But in the case of modern analogs installed screw, located under the cap.
The sequence of works:
- remove the cap from the body of the product;
- unscrew the screw with a screwdriver;
- Remove the lens from the handle.
There are cases that the screw becomes rusty and cannot be removed manually. To do this, you can use a mini-drill by making a small hole in the center of the screw (about 1.5–2 mm in diameter and 2 mm in depth). Having a little gone deep, the drill needs to be swung slightly so that the hole turns into an ellipse shape. Next, the screw is heated with a 40-watt soldering iron. It is necessary to warm up until the plastic around the screw begins to soften (2-3 minutes), after which the screw can be easily unscrewed with a screwdriver.
To get rid of blockages in the holes, you can use a conventional wire or unfolded paper clip. It is much easier to remove dirt from rubber elements. For cleaning, ordinary table vinegar will do.And if the layer of scale is too large, you can first rub with a stiff brush, and then soak the product in vinegar for several hours.
If the life of the watering can is small, you can try to remove the pollution without dismantling the structure. To do this, pour vinegar in a tight bag or any convenient container, immerse the watering can in it and leave to soak for a couple of hours. After such a procedure, even ingrained lime goes well.
To increase the service life of the product, you need to take care of its cleanliness after each swim. As a preventive measure, you can wash the casing with anti-limescar once a week. If a filter is not provided in the watering can model, it is advisable to install it separately. Such simple manipulations will allow to get rid of difficult clogs and make the operation of the product more pleasant.
It often happens that the shower head hose, which usually comes bundled with the device itself, becomes unusable. To fix such a break with your own hands is quite real. Need to determine the length of the hose. The next step is to attach the hose to the mixer and the shower head body. To do this, you need movable cap nuts with a ribbed surface (for mounting to the mixer) and elongated (for watering cans). Connect them is not difficult.It is worth noting that today you can purchase hoses with so-called sealed bearings. They allow the hose to rotate without twisting. Such models are much more expensive than ordinary products.
There are cases that the hose starts to flow at the junction, but it’s quite possible to fix this problem with your own hands. To do this, you need to disassemble the device by unscrewing the shower head. If the rush is near the nozzle, it will facilitate the repair procedure. In any case, you will have to remove part of the inner rubber hose to the cracked area and assemble the product in the reverse order.
How to pick up a watering can for a shower, look in the following video.