Suppose you’ve ever stepped into a hotel shower or a friend’s newly renovated bathroom and enjoyed a refreshing, spa-like shower experience. In that case, chances are they had a high-pressure shower head installed.
High-pressure shower heads transform an ordinary shower by increasing the water flow and pressure from the shower head.
This provides a more drenching, luxurious feeling shower. Upgrading to one of these shower heads is an easy and affordable way to improve your existing bathroom shower.
What Makes It “High Pressure”?
A standard showerhead has a water flow rate of around 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM). This water pressure feels gentle and relaxing, which is fine for some people.
High-pressure shower heads have a minimum of 2.5 GPM but can have up to as high as 5 to 7 GPM. This increased water flow makes the droplets feel more intense and crisp.
The high pressure comes from increasing the flow rate itself or from using air injection technology. Air injection shower heads mix air bubbles into the water stream so it feels fuller. This gives you high-pressure shower benefits from standard water pressure.
Benefits of a High-Pressure Shower Head
Beyond simply feeling great, installing a high pressure shower head provides several benefits:
- Rinse shampoo, conditioner, and soap quicker with a more intense water flow. No more cold water hitting you because the hot water ran out prematurely.
- The massaging effect helps ease sore muscles, relieves stress, and improves circulation.
- Uses less water overall than taking longer showers with a standard shower head. The water savings can add up over time, saving you money on utility bills.
- Easy to install yourself in less than 10 minutes. No need to hire a plumber.
With the wide range of available products, you can find shower heads optimized for water coverage, intensity, or a luxurious rainfall effect. Pick one aligned with your specific showering preferences and needs.
Evaluating Your Current Shower Setup
Before choosing a new high-pressure shower head, take a look at your current shower setup. This will help you pick the style that fits best.
First, note what kind of shower you have. Is it a tub shower combo or walk-in type shower enclosure? What size is the area? If you are interested in ceiling-mounted rainfall shower heads, measure to see how much clearance you have.
Examine your existing plumbing. Do you have 1/2 inch diameter piping or larger 3/4 inch? Larger sizes can deliver higher water flow. Also, check if you have copper, galvanized steel, or PVC plastic pipes since the materials impact water pressure delivery and the ability to supply high-flow rate shower heads.
Finally, test your home’s water pressure. To get an accurate idea, turn on the sink faucet completely and place a container underneath to measure the amount that comes out per minute. Low pressure under 45 PSI will limit options somewhat, but air-injected models can still work.
Choosing the Best Spot for Installation
Most shower heads can be adjusted slightly towards wherever you want the main water flow directed. But it’s still best to mount it aligned with the area you spend most of your time standing in your shower.
Note that very small, narrow tub showers are usually wise to install on the side wall.
If your shower area has uneven water pressure in some spots, installing it on the wall opposite from the pipes can help provide more balanced coverage.
Key Features to Evaluate
Here are some key features to help you shop for the best fitting high pressure shower for your home:
Adjustable Metal Swivel Ball Joint
Being able to angle and rotate the direction of water flow makes all the difference in positioning the shower exactly where you want it. Aim away from kids’ heights as needed. The ball joint piece should be corrosion-resistant metal, not plastic, which can crack over time.
Multiple Different Spray Settings
The top-rated shower heads have settings ranging from gentle mist to full, intense spray. Easily toggle between options for different moods or uses. Common settings include:
- Power Rain / Jet Setting – High-pressure concentrated stream
- Massaging – Either intense pulses or steady beating streams to soothe muscles
- Mist – Wide, gentle rain shower-like flow usually used for relaxation
Easy Tool-Free Installation
Replacing your existing shower head with a new high-pressure one should take less than 10 minutes from start to finish.
No tools should be required – usually you can twist your old one off by hand and twist the new one on until tightly secured. Be sure to apply thread seal tape to prevent leaks.
Filters for Hard Water
Numerous shower head-specific filters exist to soften water in tap water areas with high mineral content.
These keep hard water deposits and scales from clogging up the delicate nozzles over time. If you don’t have hard water, these filters are optional.
Style for Your Bathroom
While most focus is on the shower feeling and performance itself, you can find high-end shower heads with beautiful polished chrome, oil-rubbed bronze, and other finishes to match your bathroom’s decor.
Types of High-Pressure Shower Heads
Not all high-pressure shower heads provide increased water flow and pressure in the same way. Below are a few of the most common types and methods used:
Single Function Fixed High Pressure Shower Heads
Simple, affordable, and consistent. Fixed single-function shower heads deliver strong, steady streams of water flow. It offers reliable performance at a lower cost but less settings flexibility.
Multi-Function Handheld Shower Heads
These are very versatile; they let you detach the shower head from the mount to use in hand. Great for parents bathing kids, washing pets, or blasting your back muscles.
The mount allows returning it to fixed mode. Settings like rain shower, jet spray, and massage are typically included.
Dual Shower Heads
Want the best of both worlds? Dual showers have a rain shower fixed unit on the ceiling plus a handheld shower head. Control them together or independently.
Enjoy double the coverage options without having to choose between a fixed or handheld model.
High-Pressure Rainfall Shower Heads
Rain shower heads emit wide, gentle water droplets for a luxury, spa-like feel to simulate standing in light rainfall. Available for fixed ceiling mounts or connected by arm mounts, these look beautiful but require more ceiling space.
High Pressure with Air Injection
As mentioned, air injection shower heads add air bubbles to the stream. This makes the droplets seem larger and more drenching than standard flow shower heads. Great choice to get pressure benefits even when your home’s water pressure is low.
Conclusion
With a wide range of styles and pricing usually between $15-$150+, installing a high pressure shower head allows you to tailor your bathroom’s shower to your preference. It is well worth the small upgrade investment for years of improved shower enjoyment.
Be sure to evaluate your existing plumbing setup before finding the best-fitting model.
