Lowes Showerhead Low Pressure Easy to Clean
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Photo: Shannon Lee
High-pressure shower heads reliably deliver one of the main elements of a pleasant shower experience: a steady, invigorating spray. For homes with low water pressure, these simple devices can pump up a shower experience immensely. Those who live in a high-rise apartment building, a mobile home, an RV, or a rural area with less-than-ideal water pressure—or anyone who simply wants to upgrade the oomph of their current shower—may want to consider a high-pressure shower head.
We tested a host of different models with various designs and spray options to help in the hunt for the best high-pressure shower head. Read on to learn more about choosing the best high-pressure shower heads and read our reviews to find the product that best suits your style and budget.
- BEST OVERALL: Speakman, S-2005-HB Hotel Anystream High Pressure
- RUNNER-UP: KOHLER K-72419-CP Awaken G110 Showerhead
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Waterpik Hand Held Shower Head 4-Mode SM-453CGE
- BEST HANDHELD SHOWER HEAD: Moen 26100EPSRN Engage Magnetix Handheld Showerhead
- BEST DUAL SHOWER HEAD: Delta Faucet 5-Spray H2Okinetic In2ition Dual Shower
- BEST RAIN SHOWER HEAD: hansgrohe 27474001 Raindance Showerhead
- MOST EFFICIENT: High Sierra's High Efficiency Low Flow Showerhead
- MOST UNIQUE OPTION: AquaDance 7″ Premium High Pressure 3-Way Rainfall
- HONORABLE MENTION: HO2ME High Pressure Handheld Shower Head
- ALSO CONSIDER: SparkPod High Pressure Rain Showerhead
Photo: Shannon Lee
What to Look for When Choosing the Best High-Pressure Shower Head
There are several functional elements and design features to consider when shopping for a high-pressure shower head. Flow rate is the most important technical concern. In addition to aesthetic choices like appearance and finish, look for features such as spray patterns, energy-saving benefits, and other options. The following are the criteria we considered in making the picks in this lineup.
Design
There are four basic high-pressure shower head designs: wall-mounted, handheld, rain shower head, and three-way. The model that works best for you will depend on bathroom size and layout, along with personal preference.
- A wall-mounted shower head is fixed in place and may feature an adjustable spray pattern. They come in a standard size as well as larger models.
- A rain shower head is a large, fixed overhead shower head with a much broader coverage area and a sensory experience comparable to being out in a rain shower. The best high-pressure rain shower head gives a powerful, immersive shower experience.
- A handheld shower head connects to the water supply with a flexible hose. This simplifies tasks such as bathing young children, washing the dog, and cleaning the surrounding shower area. Doctors often recommend them for patients after surgeries that impair movement. A handheld shower head paired with a wall-mounted option is often called a dual shower head.
- A three-way shower head includes both fixed and handheld shower heads, with a three-way diverter that allows the user to choose one or the other, or both at the same time.
Finish
The finish on a shower head is a purely aesthetic choice, and options are surprisingly diverse, from shiny chrome to warm brass to trendy black matte. Finishes offer many opportunities to customize the look of the shower along with the rest of the bathroom. For cohesion, the shower head should complement (if not exactly match) other bathroom hardware: the sink faucet, toilet flush lever, drawer pulls, towel racks, etc.
The materials and application methods used in chrome, polished brass, brushed nickel, and stainless finishes make them top choices for durability. Chrome is the most popular shower head finish by far, while polished brass is its golden-hued counterpart. These shiny finishes give a clean and classic look, but they also highlight every soap spot. Matte finishes like brushed nickel and stainless offer the same durability as chrome but resist spotting.
Spray Patterns
A high-pressure shower head provides plenty of force, but the spray pattern determines the comfort. Most shower heads have adjustable spray patterns, with some offering eight or more options. Choose from a pulsating massage, a powerful stream, a gentle mist, a soaking rain, or a combination pattern. To satisfy the whole family, consider buying a shower head with high pressure and plenty of spray pattern options.
Flow Rate
Flow rate, shown in gallons per minute (GPM), measures how much water flows through a shower head. Most standard shower heads are rated around 2.0 GPM, with the maximum flow rate being 2.5 GPM. These high-flow rate shower heads deliver 2.5 gallons of water each minute, or 25 gallons of water during a 10-minute shower.
Energy-Saving Certification
Governments regulate showerhead flow rates to help conserve water and energy. Water-saving shower heads that earn the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) WaterSense label use no more than 2 GPM while providing a shower that is equal to or better than standard shower heads on the market. EPA estimates that replacing a conventional shower head with a low-flow WaterSense shower head can save nearly 3,000 gallons of water each year. (An incredible savings, considering that showering accounts for approximately 17 percent of home water use.)
When shopping for an efficient shower head, don't just take the manufacturer's word for it; look for the WaterSense label. EPA-certified WaterSense shower heads have been tested and approved for their ability to save water and energy.
Optional Features
Many modern shower heads come with unique features that enhance safety, comfort, and convenience: think lights, sound, and smart technology.
LED lights can simply brighten a dimly lit shower, but a model with colorful—or even color-changing—LED lights turns the shower into a magical oasis. Some shower heads include a Bluetooth speaker to listen to music or to keep up with a favorite podcast. Other options available are smart shower heads that turn on automatically, control water temperature, track water usage, play tunes, and answer incoming phone calls.
Our Top Picks
We reviewed the top brands and the most popular products to find some of the best high-pressure shower heads available. After matching them up against one another and checking each one against our criteria, we narrowed the list to only the top choices for shower heads with good water pressure. If you're looking for a new shower head, you just might find it here.
Photo: amazon.com
This Speakman Hotel Anystream High Pressure Shower Head is a high-quality choice for new construction or as a replacement wall-mounted shower head. This premium high-flow shower head's clean lines and sleek, simple design will enhance and complement any modern bathroom. Those who travel often might recognize this particular brand and perhaps even this particular model from hotels; it's a delight for weary travelers to see a Speakman shower head, as it's a sure sign of good water pressure.
Speakman's patented Anystream system evenly distributes water as it smoothly transitions through intense, massage, and combination settings. Our testing found that the ring to adjust the various settings moved easily, but not so easily that the shower head can slip from one setting to another without the user adjusting the setting.
A proprietary plunger system controls the spread of water as it leaves the nozzle, allowing pressure to build and intensify. The plungers are self-cleaning, resisting hard-water buildup and sediment and making the shower head easy to maintain. Installation is as easy as it gets: Simply remove the old shower head and screw this one into place without the use of tools.
Product Specs
- GPM: 2.5
- Handheld: No
- Settings: Three
Pros
- Multiple finishes to choose from
- Available in three flow rates
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- Spray coverage somewhat narrow
Photo: amazon.com
From Kohler, this multifunctional shower head offers plenty of options for a customized look and feel in a contemporary design. An advanced spray engine increases low water pressure for a more pleasant shower, and the fixture provides three spray choices controlled by a simple thumb tab. There is a low-pressure option, and the Kohler can comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) specifications.
Though this shower head feels surprisingly light out of the box, it packs a mighty pressure punch. It installs quite easily, and its spray options are indeed unique. The wide coverage spray is excellent for general use, while the intense drenching spray is forceful (ideal for rinsing out shampoo). The focused, targeted stream can massage sore muscles—a welcome relief that definitely delivers on what a high pressure shower head is all about.
Product Specs
- GPM: 2.0
- Handheld: No
- Settings: Three
Pros
- Sleek modern design
- Wider spray coverage
- Simple to switch between sprays
Cons
- May not fit piping in older homes
Photo: amazon.com
The affordable Waterpik Hand Held Shower Head is WaterSense Certified for demonstrated water savings and shower performance. It features a 5-foot-long shower hose to provide plenty of range for bathing kids and pets while making cleaning the shower easier. Four spray modes include full-body coverage, strong pulsating massage, gentle massage, and full body with massage combo.
There is no click when turning the dial to change settings, so it's possible to set them "in between" for even more customizable options.
The packaging, unfortunately, was frustrating to open; do so carefully in case returning the product becomes necessary. We found the shower head to feel very light and were concerned at first by a rattling we heard upon taking it from the box. That sound is due to a small part inside that creates the pulsing sensation of one of the settings and is not a defect. The tubing also requires some time to loosen up, as it is very stiff out of the package.
Product Specs
- GPM: 1.8
- Handheld: No
- Settings: Four
Pros
- Easy to customize settings
- Very wide spray area
- Pulsating and slow massage functions
Cons
- Frustrating packaging
- Sits high on the base
Photo: amazon.com
Moen's handheld shower head offers freedom and flexibility. The base features a magnetic docking system that allows the business end to be quickly detached for handheld use. When done using, simply put it back into the dock and let the magnet snap it into place. The magnet holds firmly, so a bit of force is needed to pull the shower head from the mooring, but once in hand the weight feels balanced and comfortable—even when slippery, it's easy to hold on to.
A 5-foot interlocking spiral metal water supply hose provides ample reach. The 3.5-inch- diameter spray head features six unique spray functions to provide a customized shower experience and optimal force. Our testing found that the shower head offered everything from a gentle rain shower, perfect for bathing small children, to a high-pressure stream that leaves adults feeling squeaky clean and refreshed. The Moen complies with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) specifications and boasts WaterSense certification.
Product Specs
- GPM: 1.75
- Handheld: Yes
- Settings: Six
Pros
- Magnetic docking system
- Easy to install
- Multiple jet options
Cons
- Water pressure can vary
Photo: amazon.com
A handheld and an overhead all in one, this Delta Faucet model can be used in two basic ways—yet five spray choices make for a luxurious customized shower. The shower head can be securely docked overhead or easily detached for handheld use with a separate hose. A powerful magnet holds the shower head precisely for easy docking, even if the bather's eyes are closed. The flexible, high-quality hose bends easily, the lever for changing settings moves smoothly, and installation of the unit is a breeze.
Delta Faucet's 5-Spray H2Okinetic In2ition Dual Shower provides three times more coverage than a standard shower head with a unique wave pattern and larger water droplets. This WaterSense-certified shower system offers four different spray settings plus a pause function, which saves water by temporarily reducing flow to a trickle while lathering or shaving. The spray settings glide rather than click for a more customizable shower experience.
Product Specs
- GPM: 1.75
- Handheld: Yes
- Settings: Five
Pros
- Huge diameter for wide coverage
- Durable materials
- Silicone nozzles clean easily
Cons
- Pricey
- Water pressure can vary
Photo: amazon.com
This sturdy, solid, and easy-to-install hansgrohe shower head efficiently provides a great rain- shower experience. While not a true high-pressure shower head, operating at a 2.5 GPM flow rate, this model boasts efficient technology to infuse air into each water droplet, producing a luxurious shower experience without wasting water.
This model addresses the less-than-forceful spray issue that some folks find disappointing about rain-shower heads via its RainAir spray mode, which mixes air with water to provide a more intense experience.
However, with the way this shower head infuses the water with air, combined with reduced pressure, it may take slightly longer for users to rinse. What's more, water temperature may seem somewhat cooler than the setting chosen would suggest; though turning to a hotter setting is easy enough, those with a smaller water heater might run out of hot water faster.
Product Specs
- GPM: 2.5
- Handheld: No
- Settings: One
Pros
- Huge diameter for wide coverage
- Durable materials
- Silicone nozzles clean easily
Cons
- Pricey
- Water pressure can be low
Photo: amazon.com
Those looking for the best shower experience from the least amount of water should check out the High Sierra 1.5 GPM Low Flow Shower Head. Aside from coming in a host of finishes, there are no bells and whistles with this model. It is a simple shower head with a strong, high-pressure spray even while maintaining a low-flow rate of 1.5 GPM.
With its solid metal construction and clog-free nozzle, it's one of the most rugged, dependable low-flow shower heads available. The patented nozzle delivers a robust and full spray of large water drops for a powerful experience and minimal water usage. Installation is a snap—no surprise, considering the simplicity. The only caveat: The shower head has a small range of movement, but the spray can be angled down or up slightly to suit the height of the user.
Product Specs
- GPM: 1.5
- Handheld: No
- Settings: One
Pros
- Very simple to install
- Straightforward shower head
- Affordable price
Cons
- Only one setting
- Water pressure can feel low
Photo: amazon.com
The AquaDance high-pressure shower head is actually two shower heads; they can be used together for a fully immersive experience or separately for a more traditional shower. The larger shower head is 7 inches in diameter, providing a wide spray area, while the 4-inch shower head is a handheld wand with a 5-foot hose that allows for more ease in rinsing. Each shower head has six settings, so when using them together, it's possible to combine settings for a truly personalized experience.
The click-lever dial is easy to move, even with slippery fingers. Our testing found that the water pressure dropped a bit when both shower heads were running, as might be expected when the same amount of water is being forced through more space. Two caveats: Those with low bathroom ceilings might have trouble with installation for this one, as the handheld wand sits higher than the larger shower head. Plus, though installation is simple and toolless, the shower heads come with cheap Teflon tape. To prevent leaks, we recommend buying quality tape separately for installation.
Product Specs
- GPM: 2.5
- Handheld: Yes
- Settings: Six
Pros
- Two shower heads for better coverage
- Easy to install with no tools
- Six settings on each for personalized experience
Cons
- Lower pressure when using both shower heads
- Sits high on the bracket; not good for low ceilings
- Poor-quality Teflon tape included
Photo: amazon.com
The very affordable price point of this handheld shower head from HO2ME gets attention, but so do the little extras, such as the 79-inch hose that makes showering as easy as possible. The strong bracket holds the wand steady, though it does make the unit sit a little high on the wall (those with a lower shower ceiling should keep that in mind). The shower head comes with a water flow regulator and extra washers for proper fit during installation.
The three functions of this shower head all provide ample water pressure. In fact, the pulse massage function can be strong enough to sting, thus the potential usefulness of the water flow regulator. The shower head does feel a bit flimsy when pulled from the box; however, once installed and working, it performed well in our testing.
Product Specs
- GPM: 2.5
- Handheld: Yes
- Settings: Three
Pros
- Affordable
- Intense water pressure
- Water flow regulator included
Cons
- Pulse function can be too powerful
- Feels a little flimsy at first
Photo: amazon.com
The rain-shower head from SparkPod is unique in that it doesn't require a long pipe to connect it to the center of the shower stall. Instead, this one fits on the standard pipe, and so it can easily replace any other shower head and still give that rain-shower feel. However, the addition of an extender arm can help by creating a full rain-shower experience.
Made of ABS plastic, the unit is lighter than it looks, and installation is very easy. A swivel joint allows moving the shower head in any direction, so it can work well for bathers of any height. A water filter is included to help reduce debris in the pipes that could clog the shower head, and a handy roll of Teflon tape is supplied to help ensure a firm installation.
Product Specs
- GPM: 1.8
- Handheld: No
- Settings: One
Pros
- High-pressure rain shower
- Very easy to install
- Comes with Teflon tape and a water filter
Cons
- Must buy extender arm separately for true rain-shower experience
Our Verdict
For a reliable shower-head upgrade, consider the Speakman Hotel Anystream High Pressure Shower Head. If you're looking for a highly customizable option, pick up the Delta Faucet H2Okinetic In2ition Dual Shower Head, which comes in multiple finishes with an easy-to-use shower head and hose.
How We Tested the Best High-Pressure Shower Heads
We tested the best high-pressure shower heads with hands-on trials, guided by a rubric that helped us keep the process fair and as objective as possible. We looked at the gallons per minute, the ease of installation and use, how suitable they were for the high-pressure needs in a typical shower, and how well they held up over time. We also checked out the little things that matter, such as the length of hose if the shower head was handheld, or the ease of removing the product from its packaging. We also took note of how the water streams felt on the skin—was the shower head truly high pressure? The results were calculated on our rubric and compiled to present the lineup seen here.
The Advantages of Owning a High-Pressure Shower Head
High-pressure shower heads offer an improved showering experience over conventional models. These powerful shower heads decrease the water flow rate while increasing water pressure by employing variable spray patterns or compression-chamber engineering. The increased pressure feels invigorating and cleans efficiently, while the decreased flow rate saves water. This is especially helpful in places where household water pressure is lacking.
High-pressure shower heads use about one-fifth less water compared to their conventional counterparts. Because they use less water, there is not as much water to heat, so they save on energy consumption, too. Water and power savings translate to money saved every month after switching to a high-pressure shower head.
- Reduce water and energy bills.
- Conserve water.
- Upgrade the showering experience in homes with low water pressure.
FAQs
Q. What is a good water pressure for a shower?
Standard residential water pressure in the United States is between 45 and 55 pounds per square inch (psi). Lower water pressure can be increased by installing a high-pressure shower head.
Q. Are there shower heads that increase water pressure?
Yes. High-pressure shower heads increase water pressure either by decreasing the flow rate or using a compression chamber.
Q. How do high-pressure shower heads work?
High-pressure shower heads restrict the volume of water flowing through the pipe, like when a gardener sticks a thumb partly over the end of a trickling garden hose to make it spray farther. Inside the shower head, there are components to regulate the high pressure water flow and provide an even shower.
Source: https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-high-pressure-shower-head/
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