Richard Morgan/DIY Works
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The latest shower heads are available in various types that specialize in providing a desired showering experience. Whether you need to increase water pressure, switch between spray patterns or filter the water flow, there is a huge selection to choose from.
In terms of the installation, regardless of whether you have a power, mixer or electric shower, replacing your shower head is as simple as screwing the old shower head off the hose and then tightening the new one in its place. However, if you are confused about the installation, feel free to contact us and our team will try to assist where possible.
To help you choose a shower head that’ll transform your showering experience, our hand-picked selection features top-performing models chosen through our first-hand experience using multiple designs, testing, and the latest research.
Best Overall: Triton High Flow Shower Head
Best Ionic: Rymerce Filter Shower Head
Best High Flow: Mira Response 4-Spray
Best High Pressure: Grohe Rainshower Icon Shower Head
Best For Low Pressure: VEHHE KHS Shower Head
Best Rotating: Mira 360M Smart Shower Head
Best LED: Jopee Ionic Shower Head
Best Handheld: KES Handheld Shower Head
Best Rainfall: Derpras Round Shower Head
Best Rainfall Runner-Up: SIEYES Square Shower Head
How The DIY Works Team Tests & Rates The Shower Heads
Considering that the majority of shower heads aren’t too expensive, we were able to test and try out a great selection as shown in the image. The shower heads we tested included those from reputable brands in the UK such as Triton, Mira, and Aqualisa as well as many others.
Richard Morgan/DIY Works
During our ongoing testing, we analyse the performance, construction quality, ease of installation as well as all of the spray patterns that they had to offer.
To keep up our commitment to testing and reviewing the latest shower heads (for this article), we are continually testing the latest available by the brands in the UK. As you can see in the images below, we most recently tested an ionic and low-pressure shower head.
Richard Morgan/DIY Works
Richard Morgan/DIY Works
As well as our experience and testing of the shower heads, we also based our recommendations upon hours of research and a number of factors. Some of the factors that we took into consideration included the build quality, performance, design, spray patterns, ease of cleaning, compatibility, warranty and value for money.
Shower Head Buying Guide
Replacing your old shower head can completely transform your showering experience. You have the option of choosing a direct replacement or upgrading to one of the hundreds available. The most common reason why people upgrade is due to low pressure from the shower head. Even if you have the best power shower on the market, if your shower head isn’t performing as it should, you won’t experience the desirable high pressure.
To help you make an informed buying decision, we’ve produced the below guide regarding shower heads.
Types of Shower Heads
The two main types of shower heads include a fixed head and a handheld head. The fixed head attaches permanently to the wall or ceiling whereas the handheld shower head is compatible with all types of shower systems. Although all shower heads do the same job, many have unique features that enable them to stand out from the rest.
Increasing Water Pressure
Many electric showers suffer from low pressure but using a shower head that increases water pressure can make a big difference. The ability of a shower head to do this is made possible by a clever nozzle design and water channels that build up the pressure.
Spray Settings
Everyone has their own preference as to which spray pattern is the best. Some people prefer a powerful massaging spray of water whereas others prefer wide coverage.
To ensure that you aren’t left disappointed, it’s advised that you check the different spray patterns that are available between the different brands.
In terms of switching between the different spray patterns, most will have an adjustable lever with numbers on the side (as shown on the right of the shower head in the photo). However, you’ll want to check the numbers in the instructions to ensure you are using the correct setting.
Richard Morgan/DIY Works
Filtration
If you want the water to be filtered, you’ll require an ionic shower head that uses bioactive mineral balls to filter passing water. Although this isn’t a requirement for most people in the UK, those who live in an area with hard water will see the benefits because it reduces the hardness of the water. It’s beneficial whilst showering because hard water can strip the skin of its natural oils, which can then result in dry or irritated skin.
Other Desirable Features
Although shower heads all perform the same task, they are available with many desirable features. A popular feature that’s relatively new is LED lighting which can come in the form of multiple different colours. Another popular design feature is a rainfall shower head that provides the luxury feel that you are in heavy rainfall.
When it comes to cleaning the shower head, many brands provide self-cleaning or rub-clean nozzles. These nozzles make it far easier to clean and reduce the build-up of lime scale and other debris.
Alternative Brands
Although the majority of major showering brands produce their own shower heads, you may wish to choose an alternative brand. Almost all shower heads will use a standard UK size, which is a half-inch pipe (G1/2 interface). This means that you can easily mix and match between the different shower head brands without any issues.
How To Change a Shower Head
Replacing a shower head is very easy to do and it requires no tools. For a handheld shower head, you can change it by following the below steps:
- Ensure the shower is switched off.
- Unhook it from the mount.
- Begin to twist the shower head counterclockwise.
- Remove and replace the washers.
- Screw the new one into the hose.
- Attach back onto the mount.
- Turn on the shower and check for leaks.
Replacing a fixed shower head may become more involving depending upon how tight it has been installed previously. If you are unable to remove the shower head by hand, you can use an adjustable wrench to remove it. The steps involved in changing a fixed shower head include the following:
- Ensure the shower is switched off.
- Attempt to turn the shower head counterclockwise.
- Remove and replace the washers.
- Screw the new shower head onto the arm.
- Turn on the water and check for leaks.
If any leaks occur whilst installing either of the shower heads, you’ll want to ensure that it’s completely tight and you’ve used the provided washers. If there is still a leak, you can use some Teflon tape to ensure the attachment is watertight.
Conclusion
If your current shower head is lacking in power or is clogged up, investing in an upgrade can make a big difference. There are hundreds to choose from but choosing the best can be a difficult task.
All of our recommendations are suited to a range of budgets and include a variety of different types. To ensure that you aren’t left disappointed, we advise that you stick to reputable brands or those that offer long warranties.
If you require further information regarding any of our shower head recommendations, feel free to get in touch and we will try to provide our assistance where possible.
