How To Choose And Install The Right Bathroom Shower System

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Choosing the right bathroom shower system can be a daunting task, especially with the numerous options available in the market. From the type of shower head to the installation process, each aspect requires careful consideration to ensure that your new shower system meets your needs and enhances your bathroom experience. In this article, we will guide you through the process of selecting the perfect shower system and provide a step-by-step guide on how to install it.

Understanding Your Needs

Before diving into the specifics of choosing a shower system, it is essential to understand your needs and preferences. Here are a few key factors to consider:

1. Bathroom Size: The size of your bathroom will significantly influence the type of shower system you can install. For small bathrooms, space-saving options like shower panels or handheld shower heads might be more suitable. In larger bathrooms, you have more flexibility to choose from various styles and sizes of shower systems.

2. Budget: Shower systems can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Knowing your budget will help narrow down your options. If you're on a tight budget, a simple function shower system with adjustable settings might be the best choice. For those with a higher budget, multifunctional shower systems offering features like handheld showers, massage body spray jets, and rainfall showerheads can provide a luxurious experience.

3. Lifestyle: Consider your lifestyle and how you plan to use the shower. If you have kids or pets, a shower system with easy-to-clean features and durable materials might be more practical. For households with multiple users, programmable settings in digital showers can be particularly useful.

4. Aesthetics: The appearance of your shower system is also important. Look for systems that match your bathroom style and offer customization options for finishes and colors.

Types of Shower Systems

There are several types of shower systems available, each with its own set of features and benefits:

1. Thermostatic Mixer Showers

Thermostatic mixer showers are the most common type of shower available and consist of two parts: the valve and the shower head. The valve is responsible for mixing hot and cold water from your system and has controls for adjusting temperature and flow. These showers are available in various styles, from classic to ultra-sleek designs, making them easy to find one that suits your bathroom aesthetic.

However, thermostatic mixer showers require good water pressure to function effectively. If your home has low-pressure gravity-fed systems, you may need to install a pump to deliver a powerful shower experience. This is particularly important for larger walk-in shower ideas that require more water pressure.

2. Electric Showers

Electric showers are wall-mounted units that heat cold mains water on demand. They are an economical option and are especially useful in extra bathrooms or busy households where other shower types may lose pressure when taps are turned on or toilets are flushed elsewhere in the house. Electric showers can also be equipped with pumps to boost water pressure, making them suitable for homes with low-pressure systems.

3. Digital Showers

Digital showers offer a smart showering experience with programmable settings for temperature and water flow. They consist of two parts: a diverter that mixes hot and cold water like a valve, and a shower head. The diverter box can be positioned anywhere, even outside the room, providing a neat finish. Digital showers come with wireless control, allowing you to run the water to your desired temperature before stepping in. They also feature programmable settings for different family members, such as relaxing, soothing, powerful, and invigorating options.

How to Choose the Right Shower System

Choosing the right shower system involves several key considerations:

1. Water Heating System: Knowing what type of boiler you have and the water pressure it provides is crucial. Combi boilers typically provide sufficient pressure for power showers, while older properties with low-pressure gravity-fed systems may require a pump to deliver a good shower experience.

2. Shower Specifications: Check the minimum and maximum bar pressure required for your shower system. Larger showerheads generally require more bar pressure to function effectively.

3. Shower Head Type: Decide between fixed shower heads, handheld shower heads, or a combination of both. Fixed shower heads are mounted to the wall with shower arms, while handheld shower heads offer flexibility and ease of cleaning.

4. Additional Features: Consider additional features like body sprays, massage jets, and steam showers. These can enhance your shower experience but may require more complex installation processes.

Installation Steps

Once you have chosen your shower system, it's time to install it. Here are the steps involved in installing a shower system:

1. Determine the Punching Position

Before installing the shower head, read the instructions first and measure the size up and down to find the best position. The left and right directions should be in the middle of the left and right walls of the bathroom, while the up and down vertical directions should be based on the position of the faucet to determine the position of the punch.

2. Drilling

Draw the installation position of the shower on the wall, locate a fixed point, and punch holes on the wall. Be careful not to hit any water pipes in the wall; this process requires some technical skill.

3. Installation and Fixing

Screw the round bottom cover to the wall according to the instructions in the manual. Install the shower rod to the wall starting from the top. After stabilizing the upper fixing point, fix the lower position to avoid falling of the shower rod.

4. Adjusting Position

Make detailed adjustments after all inner angle screws are screwed in. Adjust the direction of left and right rotation so that the uppermost shower head is in the center, then tighten the screw.

5. Installing Hand Shower

Ensure that the hose of the shower is not twisted or twisted during installation for cleaning and maintenance work.

Additional Tips

1. Read Instructions Carefully

Always read the instructions provided with your shower system carefully before starting the installation process. This will help you understand any specific requirements or precautions needed for your particular system.

2. Consider Professional Help

If you're not comfortable with DIY projects or if your shower system requires complex installation processes, consider hiring a professional plumber. This will ensure that your shower system is installed correctly and safely.

3. Clean Regularly

Regular cleaning of your shower system can extend its lifespan and maintain its performance. Look for shower systems with easy-to-clean features like prominent nozzles or silicone materials that resist mineral buildup.

Conclusion

Choosing and installing the right bathroom shower system involves careful consideration of several factors including bathroom size, budget, lifestyle, and aesthetics. By understanding your needs and selecting the appropriate type of shower system—whether it's a thermostatic mixer shower, electric shower, or digital shower—you can enhance your bathroom experience significantly.

Remember to follow detailed installation steps to ensure proper installation, and don't hesitate to seek professional help if needed. With these guidelines, you'll be able to choose and install a shower system that meets your needs perfectly, providing you with a comfortable and luxurious showering experience every time.

References: Homes and Gardens. "How to choose a shower: From selecting shower types to tech." (2022-07-06) Build.com. "Shower System Buying Guide." (n.d.) Rbrohant. "How to Choose and Install a Shower System?" (2022-07-05) Bostingner. "How to buy shower system?" (2023-05-06) Lowe's. "Types of Shower Heads." (n.d.)