Weekend Project: Install a new showerhead

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency wants to decrease bathing-related water use, and its WaterSense standards for showerheads
will call for flow rates below the current federal limit of 2.5
gallons per minute. The challenge for manufacturers is to meet that
standard without affecting shower feel, since an anemic flow can result
in longer shower times and greater water use.

If your showerhead isn’t looking its best or is delivering less than a
satisfying flow, read our latest report on showerheads (full story and
ratings available to subscribers), which covers single- and
multisetting models as well as shower towers.

Installing a regular showerhead is a fairly easy job. You unscrew and
remove your existing head and the plumbing tape in place, apply fresh
tape (usually Teflon tape) for a tight seal, and screw the new head in
place.

But when you’re installing a rain-shower model, installation might not
be as straightforward. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Angle the showerhead properly. Because water literally falls from some
rain-shower fixtures, it will dribble out one side if the fixture isn’t
installed at the correct angle. You can mount many models on an
existing shower arm, and some include an adapting arm to position the
head at least 12 inches from the wall, facing straight down.

Determine whether extra hardware is needed. Some fixtures require a
90-degree angle to work properly. If that’s the case, you’ll have to
get additional hardware.

Ensure proper support. Rain-shower models that weigh 6 pounds or more
might require additional support beyond the standard shower arm. That
could entail carpentry work. Unless you’re skilled, call in a pro.

One final piece of advice: If your shower pumps out ice-cold water when the dishwasher cycles on or scalding-hot water every time a toilet is flushed, you need to replace your present shower valve with a pressure-balancing shower valve to maintain the proper mix of hot and cold water at the showerhead.

If your hot-water temperature varies, as is possible with some immersion coil water-heating systems, then you need a temperature-balancing shower valve. If that’s too expensive, you can find some after-market devices that will prevent scalding by simply stopping all water flow from the showerhead if the water temperature exceeds the device’s  allowable temperature. e-mail | Twitter | Forums | Facebook

Essential information: If you’re planning a bathroom remodel, read our
latest report on toilets (full story and ratings available to subscribers)
and learn how to get a relaxing retreat for less.