Guide & Ideas

5 types of Showerheads in Kenya to Consider.

When it comes to selecting a new shower head, the choices can be overwhelming. There are plenty of shower head types on the market, each catering to different preferences and needs. From handheld models to rainfall designs, most shower heads offer unique features to enhance your showering and bathing experience.
Understating the advantages and disadvantages of different shower heads can help inform you of the best choice for your bathroom. We’ve rounded up some of the most popular shower head types available to help you through the process of choosing a new shower head that’s perfect for your home.

1. Shower heads

Fixed shower heads, also known as mounted or wall-mounted shower heads, are a classic and common type of shower head that’s typically installed directly on the bathroom wall or ceiling. They’re securely attached to a shower arm or wall. They come in various designs and spray styles, including single spray, rain shower, and multi-function options.

Pros:

Available in a variety of styles: One of the significant benefits of fixed shower heads is the wide range of styles, finishes, and sizes available. Whether your bathroom décor is traditional or contemporary, you’re likely to find a fixed shower head that suits your design preferences.
Easy to use: Fixed shower heads are straightforward and easy to use, with few moving parts. They’re ideal for people who prefer a simple, hands-free showering experience.
Stable design: As these shower heads are mounted to the wall or ceiling, they’re highly stable and durable.

Cons:

Limited flexibility: Unlike handheld or dual shower heads, fixed shower heads offer limited flexibility. They can’t be moved or adjusted to target specific areas of the body, which may be a disadvantage for some users.
Can be difficult to clean: Depending on the mounting height and angle, fixed shower heads can sometimes be difficult to clean, particularly for those who struggle with reach.

2. Handheld shower heads

Handheld shower heads are versatile fixtures that detach from their mount, allowing you to control the direction of the water spray. They are attached to a long hose, usually made of stainless steel or other durable materials, providing flexibility and an extended reach. Handheld shower heads are popular due to their convenience and ease of use, offering a customizable shower experience for users of all ages and abilities.

Pros

Versatility and convenience: The main advantage of handheld showerheads is their flexibility. They can be detached from the wall mount, allowing you to direct the water flow exactly where you want it, which can be particularly beneficial for rinsing off, bathing children, washing pets, or even cleaning the shower area.
Adjustable settings: Many handheld showerheads come with different spray settings, offering customization options ranging from a gentle mist to a powerful massage.
Accessibility: Handheld showerheads can be a practical choice for individuals with mobility issues or for elderly persons, as they allow showering while seated or with minimal movement.

Cons:

Potential for leaks: Due to the moving parts and extra connections, handheld shower heads may be more prone to leaks over time compared to fixed models.
Lower water pressure: Handheld shower heads might not provide the same high pressure as some fixed models due to the need to travel through a longer hose, which could be a drawback for those who prefer a more powerful shower.

3. Dual shower heads

A dual or double shower head consists of two separate shower heads in one unit. One is typically a fixed showerhead, while the other is often handheld. They can function independently or simultaneously. Whether you can use both shower heads simultaneously depends on the type of shower diverter you have. If you have a three-way diverter, you can switch the water flow between the wall-mounted shower head, handheld or both.

Pros:

Versatile: One of the main advantages of dual shower heads is their versatility. Users can switch between the handheld and fixed shower head according to their needs or use both simultaneously for a more immersive experience.
Impressive water flow: Dual shower heads can deliver water from different angles, providing increased coverage and making it easier to rinse off.
Convenient: The addition of a handheld shower head offers convenience, especially for families with children, individuals with mobility issues, or pet owners who need to bathe their pets in the shower.

Cons:

Double shower heads use more water: Using two shower heads simultaneously can result in higher water consumption, potentially leading to increased water bills.
Installation can be complex: The installation process for dual shower heads can be more complicated than for single shower heads. You might need professional help to install these types of shower heads correctly.
Higher costs compared to standard shower heads: Dual shower heads can be more expensive than standard shower heads due to the additional features and hardware.

4. Filtered shower heads

A filtered shower head is a type of shower head designed to purify the water that flows through it. These shower heads are equipped with built-in water filters that work to remove various impurities such as chlorine, dust, heavy metals, and bacteria from the water. This can result in a cleaner, safer, and more healthy shower experience. Individual shower head filters can often be purchased separately and easily attached to an existing shower head for conversion.

Pros:

Improved water quality: By filtering out various impurities, filtered shower heads significantly enhance the quality of the water you use to bathe. This can result in noticeable benefits for your skin and hair health, as chlorine and other chemicals often strip the skin and hair of natural oils, causing dryness and irritation.
Reduced exposure to potential allergens: Filtered shower heads can also reduce the risk of allergenic reactions by removing potential allergens from the water. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with sensitive skin or allergies.
Prevents limescale build-up: The purification process of filtered shower heads can also reduce limescale build-up in the shower. Limescale, a result of hard water, can lead to blockages and reduce the lifespan of your shower fixtures.

Cons:

Requires regular maintenance: The filters in these shower heads need to be replaced regularly to continue effectively removing impurities. The frequency of replacement depends on the quality of your water source and the specifics of the model you choose.
Higher initial costs: Filtered shower heads can be more expensive upfront compared to traditional shower heads due to their advanced filtration technology.
Limited filtration capabilities: While these shower heads can filter out many types of impurities, not all models can remove all contaminants. Some may be more effective at removing certain substances than others, which may necessitate the use of additional water purification systems.

5. Rain shower heads

Rain shower heads are a unique style of shower head that are designed to deliver water in a manner that simulates the fall of natural rain. These shower heads are typically larger in size and installed directly overhead, either from the ceiling or from a wall-mounted arm, to provide a vertical, all-encompassing water stream.

Pros

They provide a luxurious shower experience: One of the primary appeals of rain shower heads is the luxurious and spa-like experience they provide. The gentle and even distribution of water is incredibly relaxing and can transform a regular shower into a soothing escape.
They provide broad water coverage: Thanks to their larger size, rain shower heads typically offer a wider spray coverage than standard models, enveloping the user in water and ensuring a thorough rinse.
Contemporary appearance: Rain shower heads are generally sleek and modern in appearance, and they can add a touch of sophistication and elegance to any bathroom.

Cons:

Higher costs compared to other shower heads: Rain shower heads are often more expensive than standard models, both in terms of the initial purchase price and the installation costs. Their luxurious nature and large size contribute to these higher costs.
Increased water usage: Because of their wide spray and multiple nozzles, rain shower heads tend to use more water than traditional shower heads. This could potentially increase your water bill, especially if your household takes lengthy showers.
Installation can be complex: Installing a rain shower head may require more extensive plumbing work, especially if it needs to be ceiling-mounted. This could potentially require the services of a professional plumber.

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