home/Plumbing/Shower head for the bathroom: types of designs and spray modes
Shower head for the bathroom: types of designs and spray modes
The shower is one of the main components of a comfortable life. It should not only provide sanitary and hygienic needs, but also contribute to the creation of conditions for maximum relaxation, maintenance of tone, recovery. That is why the acquisition and installation of a structure cannot be reduced to a purely technical process. A shower head for water procedures is the main element; its choice should be approached thoughtfully.
Shower heads differ in the way of use, functionality and material of manufacture
On the modern domestic market, there is a huge selection of showers of various configurations and modifications. To meet the needs of consumers, manufacturers create large designs for spacious bathrooms and compact designs for small spaces. Shower heads differ in operating methods, additional functions, and material of manufacture.
There are two types of showerhead attachment: stationary and flexible hose
An important technical characteristic is the type of shower attachment. There are two main types of shower fixation:
Stationary. It is divided into two options: wall and ceiling. Thus, shower heads are most often fixed in cabins and boxes. The main holders of the systems are brackets and additional fittings.
With flexible hose. This is the so-called manual model, when the holder for the shower head can be installed on the side of the bath or be part of the mixer design. Such a shower head with a hose is a very convenient option, as it allows you to quickly and effortlessly redirect the stream of water to the right place.
The last type of shower head attachment is often used for small rooms. It is also convenient in those cases when the bathtub occupies an island position in the room.
In hydroboxes and shower cabins, stationary and manual fastenings are quite often combined, that is, you can use the watering can in the upper position, or you can remove and direct the stream in the desired direction.
The stationary type of attachment of the shower head can be wall and ceiling
Types of materials used in the manufacture of shower heads
With a superficial assessment of shower heads, the information on the price tags is not always clear. The original model, with a shiny chrome surface and interesting additional features, can cost much less than a modest and compact version with a standard set of performance characteristics. The reason lies in the material from which the elements that carry the main operational load are made.
Useful advice! When choosing shower heads, it is imperative to clarify the quality features of not only the main parts, but also gaskets, bushings, couplings and other connecting elements.
The following materials can be used to make watering cans in the shower:
Metal. Strong, durable in certain processing methods. It retains its aesthetic appearance for a long time.
Plastic. The material is lightweight, inexpensive, easy to use. It is characterized by a limited service life.
Metal-plastic. The products have an external plastic coating, while the internal parts are made of copper or brass. The plastic layer has a protective and decorative function.
Quartz glass and stone. Products are distinguished by complex manufacturing technology, and therefore the price is high. Exclusive models are made from these materials. High quality, durability and good looks combined with good performance are the main characteristics of shower heads made from these materials.
Shower heads are made of materials such as metal, plastic, metal-plastic, quartz glass and stone
Among the typical models that are distinguished by high performance and aesthetic qualities, bronze and brass products should be distinguished. They have a presentable appearance and a long service life. Among the functional and affordable are plastic shower heads.
Types of shower heads that determine how to spray
Shower heads have been standard for a long time. The flow of water from them could be compared with an irrigation can - it depended on the pressure in the water supply networks and could be regulated exclusively by increasing or decreasing the water supply. Today the situation has changed radically: different methods can be used to supply the same amount of water:
Rain. The standard variant, when water enters in a calm stream and passes through rather large diffuser holes.
Mono-jet. Water is supplied under significant pressure, creating the feeling of a continuous flow.
Waterfall. It has a lot in common with the previous method, it is used more often in shower heads for shower cabins and boxes with a fixed mount in the ceiling. The water falls, enhancing the mechanical effect on the body.
Soft dispersion. Small nozzle openings and mixing of water with air bubbles make the water touch almost imperceptible.
Fog. This is also a soft dispersion, but even more restrained, the flow is such small jets that there is a feeling of fog.
Massage jet. It is produced by a special nozzle that creates a certain angle of incidence and intensity of water jets.
Shower heads have different spraying methods: rain, mono-jet, waterfall, soft dispersion, fog, massage jet.
A shower head should be ergonomic, pleasant, allow the flow of water of the desired volume, power, spray method, etc. To do this, you only need to select a certain type of nozzle.
Hygiene and positive emotions: shower head "rain shower"
The rain shower head is one of the most popular shower heads. Until a certain time, it was used only in sanatoriums and dispensaries. Drops, falling on the body, act on the receptors, causing positive emotions. Today, many people prefer to have such a stimulant at home and use it daily.
A spray diffuser of this type basically consists of a large number of nozzles, with the help of which the water is formed into an intense stream consisting of drops, as a result of which the effect of pouring rain is created. Such structures are attached to the ceiling, communications fit into the grooves made in the walls and are closed. Watering cans are quite large, the ability to regulate the water flow is carried out by means of a toggle switch.
Watering can for "tropical shower"- the brainchild of English developers. Each manufacturer involved in the production of such models has brought in its own elements that complement and improve the system's operation and enhance the impact. An increase in the scattering area, illumination, the possibility of mixing water supply modes increase the interest in these structures.
One of the most popular shower heads is the "tropical rain"
Useful advice! If the wall does not allow hiding the water supply pipes in it, you can do this in the upper part by equipping a false ceiling.
The modern model can be considered a pipe shower equipped with a rain shower head. The stainless steel body and intense drip flow create a tropics-like atmosphere.
Classic model: hand shower head
The overhead shower head is considered the classic standard. The advantage of this arrangement is that it is hand-free and there is no need to hold and direct the diffuser. Head shower heads can be of two types:
Hinged. The constructions have a rigid pipe for fastening and a flexible hose. The models are mobile, if desired, the watering can can be removed and directed the stream in the desired direction.
Built-in. Such watering cans are attached to a wall or to a rigid support. In the latter case, it is most often possible to adjust the height position.
Head shower heads are divided into two types: wall-mounted and built-in
Top models with an additional watering can, which can be used in manual mode, are becoming very popular. A stationary ceiling diffuser, as a rule, has a significant size, while a removable shower is small. This combination allows you to maximize the functionality of the shower.
The top shower head for the shower cabin is more often used hinged. Hydroboxes can be equipped with built-in models. The use of structures with an overhead shower is convenient in cases where the room is small, the installation of a cabin, box or a separate shower is almost impossible and it is combined with a bath. That is, the flow of water from the diffuser is directed not into the sump or specially equipped floor, but into the bath.
Smart and useful: aerated shower diffuser
A great option for home use is a watering can with aeration. The design does not represent anything complicated, therefore it does not have a high price. The water passing through the holes of several layers of the mesh is mixed with oxygen, and a soft and enveloping jet is formed at the outlet.
There are several positive aspects in the work of such shower heads:
The water jet after aeration affects the human body like natural waves and a waterfall
Saturation of water with oxygen contributes to the volatilization of chlorine from its composition. The unpleasant odor disappears, the flow becomes softer and more pleasant.
After aeration, the water jet, by the way it affects the human body, approaches natural waves and a waterfall.
Economical water consumption is ensured.
When using a shower head with aeration, the noise level is significantly reduced. Considering that the shower has more than just a hygienic purpose, this indicator becomes significant: a pleasant environment will enhance the calming and healing effect.
Watering cans with aeration can be stationary and removable, more often designs are designed for top attachment.
Useful advice! If children under 7 years old will use the shower, then this option is most acceptable for this age. It does not cause stress and has a beneficial effect on the physiological state of babies.
Shower heads with aeration do not cause stress and have a beneficial effect on the physiological state of children
Hygienic shower: types of designs and method of application
A hygienic shower is a small-sized watering can, which has a valve at the grip point, when pressed, water is supplied. There are a large number of models of this type on the market, and they differ in the material of manufacture and design, where the holders for the shower head are of primary importance. Based on the specifics of the latter and the method of their installation, several types of hygienic showers are distinguished:
wall. Attached by means of special holders;
built into the toilet or lid. They are mounted using fittings;
attached to the sink. Installation is also carried out using special fittings.
Wall-mounted options are usually installed next to a toilet or bidet. The application process is simple: you need to remove the shower head (the hose for such models is usually used short), give it the required position and press the water start button.
A hygienic shower mounted in a shower toilet or its lid is a convenient option for small rooms, as it is a compact design. Covers with a shower insert are especially popular. They can be purchased separately and sized to fit your existing plumbing.
A hygienic shower can be wall-mounted, built into the toilet bowl or lid, and attached to the sink
Hygienic showers installed on the sink are the optimal function option. During use, there is no problem of water splashing outside the container.
Summer shower head: metal or plastic
An outdoor shower is largely different from a shower in a bathroom, both in the design of the structure itself and in the arrangement of communications, a watering can. A shower of this type is a cabin made of lightweight material: wood is often used, but corrugated board, slate and other sheet materials intended for external coverings are also popular.
Large containers are used as a source of water. They are installed in the upper part, mainly overhead. This position ensures maximum heating of the water by the sun's rays. In the simplest designs, the shower head is mounted in the bottom of the tank, water enters the system under its own pressure. In such cases, a non-removable nozzle is usually used.
Useful advice! When equipping an outdoor shower with a non-removable hand shower, it is necessary to ensure the accessibility of opening-closing and adjusting the intensity of the water supply by setting the valve or toggle switch at the optimum level.
The summer shower head is mounted in the bottom of the tank, where water is supplied to the system under its own pressure
There are also more complex designs that allow you to refresh yourself with the damp coolness after a sultry day. The shower head for a summer shower in them can be removable, but it is fixed in the upper position and even has several ways of supplying water, including intensive flow and aeration.Manufacturers also offer options with two watering cans - stationary and manual. Such structures require a special location of the tank and the presence of pipes through which water will be supplied to the watering cans.
The main part of the shower head is made of plastic. They are inexpensive, the material does not corrode, is not affected by temperature changes, and is lightweight. More expensive options can be made from copper and brass. They have a more presentable appearance, but require rather troublesome maintenance.
Shower head for the bathroom: a variety of shapes and sizes
An important characteristic of a shower head is its shape and size. An externally beautiful product may not only turn out to be inconvenient, but also its use will become problematic if the dimensions and weight do not match the user's physical capabilities.
Shower heads can take the following form:
round or oval;
square or rectangular;
triangular.
The larger the scattering surface, the higher the water consumption
As for the sizes of shower heads, they can be very different. Diffusers for "tropical shower" are distinguished by their large dimensions. Most often these are square or rectangular watering cans, the working area of which can reach 250 cm² (for stationary models).
Standard classic hand-held shower heads with a round shape are characterized by a diameter of 6-8 cm. Square versions of this type have an area of 25-100 cm².
When choosing the shape and size of the shower head, you should use the following tips:
Metal watering cans are heavy. In the absence of their upper attachment, prolonged showering can become uncomfortable.
The large size of the attachment implies a voluminous grip, which is not always convenient for a small palm.
The large area of the scattering surface causes additional water consumption. Even if the nozzle has economical modes, they only partially correct the situation, since they are used occasionally.
Before purchasing, be sure to hold the watering can in your hands and make sure that the ergonomics are at the proper level.
The shower head for the bathroom can be round or oval, square or rectangular and even triangular
Shower head for bathroom with economical water supply
The desire to save money is becoming an important positive trend of our time. And it is often not about saving funds that will need to be paid for natural benefits, but about their rational, rational use. That is why many people want to buy a shower head with the ability to use water carefully.
There are several main ways to save water while showering:
It is necessary to purchase an additional spray nozzle, inside which the regulator is installed. In the event of an increase in the intensity of water supply, the valve partially closes it.
Use the aeration function. In an oxygen-enriched stream, there is significantly less water (30%) than in a conventional stream.
Install a faucet for a shower with a watering can, which can easily adjust the intensity of the water supply.
The 7 cm water-saving round nozzle consumes 8 liters of water. The same ordinary watering can pass 15 liters of water in a minute. The savings are so significant that the money spent on the attachment will pay off in a few months.
Water-saving round nozzle with a diameter of 7 cm consumes half the water than a conventional watering can of the same diameter
Manufacturers also offer such options for adjusting the flow, when, when the pressure in the water supply system drops, the intensity is maintained using a pump.
Useful advice! Before purchasing shower structures with the possibility of stabilizing the water flow, you should consult with specialists. In some cases, the device may have no effect or may affect the water supply of neighbors (we are talking about apartment buildings).
Ways to enhance a comfortable shower in the bathroom: additional functions
The main function of any shower head is to deliver water in accordance with the set mode. If this happens, users are happy with the purchase. There are a number of additional functions that make the use of the shower head technically more convenient, and also enhance the positive effect on the psychophysical state of a person.
You can technically improve and make showering more comfortable as follows:
A backlit shower head will make the bathroom environment colorful, literally and figuratively
Install the thermostat. It will maintain a constant water temperature in the system.
Apply a pressure reducing valve. This will prevent pressure surges in the water supply system.
Buy a shower head with a filter. It will partially cleanse the water from impurities, make it softer.
Use a self-cleaning limescale system. It consists of silicone inserts that prevent deposits from "lingering" and clogging holes. Plaque from such a watering can is easily removed with a dry napkin.
The following additional functions will help to positively influence the psyche:
The presence of a radio. When the water is turned on, a signal is sent to the sensor - and pleasant relaxing music sounds in the shower stall.
Backlight. It will make the environment more comfortable, colorful, literally and figuratively.
Unusual baby heads help children cope with the discomfort caused by the need to use soap and shampoo.
The presence of additional functions that make it more convenient to use the shower head, enhance the positive impact on the human condition
Top models of shower heads: prices, manufacturers
The main suppliers of shower systems to the Russian market are Poland, Turkey and Germany. The positions of shower heads in the ranking of the best Polish and Turkish models are as follows:
Valtemo STAR. Shower faucet with hand shower and hose. Material - stainless steel. Original design. Water saving function. The presence of a thermostat to maintain a certain temperature of the water. Price - 2500 rubles.
Armatura set "blasted". A budget option. Manual removable model. The watering can is fixed to the rack with brackets. Price - 1200 rubles.
Deante. Fixed and manual watering cans. Polish production. Manufacturing material - brass. Top position. Square shape of a fixed watering can. Removable watering can - 1 water supply mode; stationary - 3, including aeration. The price is 6500 rubles.
Armatura VESTA. Hand shower with hydromassage. Ceramic switch, satin chrome finish. Price - 900 rubles.
Armatura Luna. "Tropical rain". Product of Polish manufacturers. Overhead shower bar. Has an additional hand shower. Chrome plated. Built-in limescale protection. The shape of the watering can is classic, round. The price of the system is 17 thousand rubles.
The Valtemo STAR shower head has an original design and water saving function
Proven German quality: Hansgrohe shower heads
The German company Hansgrohe was founded in 1901. And for more than a century, it has been providing a huge number of users with high-quality plumbing fixtures. Grohe was founded somewhat later by the son of the owner, Hansgrohe. For several decades, production has developed in parallel. In the 70s of the last century, they parted ways, and today they are two competing firms.
Most of Hansgrohe's factories are located in Germany - 80%. However, the remaining 20% of firms in the manufacture of products use basic elements made in Germany. This company produces a large number of elite products, constantly introduces innovative technologies.
In 2003, the Reindance shower mixer was developed and launched. It has a large disc, three modes of water supply and at the same time is economical.
Almost all nozzles of this production have a wash filter, which significantly extends their service life. The Hansgrohe shower heads are distinguished by the variety of shapes. You can purchase both a large round disc (if you wish to have a large flow), and a modest size thin rectangular watering can. The lower price of a medium-sized structure is 6,000 rubles (watering can without a hose). The upper limit cannot be determined due to the emerging new exclusive product variants.
The German company Hansgrohe has been producing original and very high-quality sanitary ware for more than a century.
A worthy competitive alternative: Grohe shower head
For a long time and firmly won the leading position in the sanitary ware market and German shower systems Grohe. With excellent quality, they also have a fairly reasonable price. Most of the models can be attributed to the middle price segment, but the manufacturer also has expensive premium options. A shower head for a bathroom together with a hose will cost on average 9-15 thousand rubles.
The main positive characteristics of the company's products include the following:
variety of models. Shower heads have various sizes, shapes, can be installed permanently in the upper and lateral positions, be removable, etc .;
almost all have a mode that allows you to save water consumption;
the use of DreamSpray technology ensures the ideal arrangement of the nozzles and, consequently, even distribution of water;
nozzles are made of special silicone, which prevents the formation of persistent limescale;
Structural elements of Grohe showers are made of heat-resistant materials, so there are no temperature limits for them.
A shower head for a bathroom with a hose from the Grohe company will cost between 9-15 thousand rubles
Useful advice! To avoid fakes (and such cases are not uncommon), you should purchase the goods of this company from authorized dealers or in the manufacturer's stores.
Prevention and repair: how to disassemble a shower head
The need to disassemble a shower head occurs quite often. The main cause is blockage. Some zealous owners do not wait for problems to appear and check the condition of the plumbing for preventive purposes.
To understand how to disassemble a shower head, you need to know its structure. Conventional models have a simple design, so there are no problems during disassembly. Watering cans with switches are more complex systems that require attention and specific skills.
They consist of a body with a rounded internal feed chamber. Swirlers are mounted in it, with the help of which various options for the exit of water jets from the watering can are carried out. The switch is usually installed on the side of the nozzle, but it can also be located on the back. In a certain position, some swirlers open and others close. The change of position ensures a change in the water flow
On the round diffuser, you need to find the cavities into which you insert the pin wrench and unscrew the panel
You can find out how to disassemble a shower head with a switch from the following algorithm of actions:
Using an adjustable wrench, disconnect the hand shower from the flexible hose.
Find the cavity for the pin key on the round lens, insert it, unscrew the panel.
Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the screw securing the swirl box.
Remove the switch, swirler. Care must be taken not to lose the switch spring.
Useful advice! A pin wrench is usually included in the shower kit. The loss of this special tool will cause a lot of problems, since it is practically impossible to purchase an analog separately.
When removing the swirler switch, care must be taken not to lose the spring
If the swirler box does not have latches, this option cannot be repaired. It is necessary to clean all elements from contamination, assemble in the reverse order.
Shower head for the bathroom: the subtleties of proper care
All products that are in constant contact with water need systematic cleaning. Otherwise, limescale will not only spoil their appearance, but can also significantly interfere with normal functioning.
In any household chemicals store, it is easy to find a lot of options for cleaning compositions for shower heads. You should not rely only on the recommendations of sellers and managers - it is better to have information on how to use detergents and which ones are better to refuse.
In order for the shower column with a spout to shine clean and not have any signs of damage, the following rules must be observed:
It is not recommended to use a steam cleaner to clean the shower head, as the high temperature can deform some of its elements
Use only mild cleaning materials. Sponges with an abrasive layer, microfiber wipes can leave marks on the surface of products.
The use of steam cleaners is strongly discouraged. High temperatures can cause deformation of individual elements of the watering can.
Do not mix cleaning agents. It is better to refrain from formulations containing acetic or formic acid. More acceptable is lemon.
Do not spray the cleaning agent onto the shower head as it can seep into the structure. You need to apply it to a napkin and wipe the parts in need of cleaning.
Wash off the product with a copious stream of water.
It is impossible to overestimate the presence and normal, desired functioning of the shower. This is hygiene, wellness from contact with water. Even a minor mistake can significantly reduce the positive effect of the shower on the body. Therefore, you should not neglect the advice - you need to approach the choice of a shower head seriously.
