Buyer's Guide & Information

Best High Pressure Shower Heads Reviewed

The best high-pressure shower head gives plenty of comfort for homes with low water pressure. We review handheld, rain & dual models.

by Caitlin Shaffer

High Pressure Handheld Shower Head

There are few things that get your day off to a worse start than stepping under a dribbling shower.

Conversely, stepping under a forceful, stress-relieving jet of warm water can set us up for almost anything that the daily grind can throw at us.

There’s no doubt that installing the best high-pressure shower head in your bathroom brings you one step closer to contentment, ensuring the luxury of a great shower experience every time you step into the stall or climb into the tub.

There may be fundamental reasons for your low water pressure. Low-pressure municipal supply, plumbing leaks, debris buildup and problem pressure regulators may all be the root cause, and are well worth investigating.

When you’ve identified and solved that problem with the help of your plumber, you may still find that your shower water pressure is below par. If that’s the case, we have good news for you… You can easily banish the dribble forever!

Suffer no longer and install a new high-pressure shower head. Take a look at our top picks of the best high-pressure shower heads, whether you’re looking for a fixed, handheld, rainfall or combination set-up. Also make sure to check out our full guide on the best overall shower heads. 

Advantages of a High Pressure Shower Heads

As we’ve already established, a dribbling shower is guaranteed to get your day off to a bad start, whereas a high pressure shower will set you up for whatever your day might throw at you, but there are other advantages, too:

  • Use less water for the same pressure compared to using an ordinary shower head, saving water, energy and therefore money.
  • Feel great on a cold morning with the luxury of a hot high pressure shower. Water pressure is directly related to the pleasure of a showering experience for most people.
  • More effective washing and rinsing of your whole body.

Buyers Guide: Shower Heads for low water pressure

Pressure Design

A shower head which offers adjustable settings or a pressure chamber is generally preferable and worth paying extra for to get a better shower. Being able to change to specific preferences of each individual in your household should stop any family members complaining.

Shower Head Size

You can choose from wide or narrow shower heads. If you have really low pressure in your home, you would be wise to choose a narrower head. Although the spray area is smaller, the flow will be more concentrated and the force will be greater.  

Water Flow Rate

It may be tempting to go for the maximum legally allowed flow rate of 2.5 gallons/minute but in fact many of the best high pressure shower heads are actually intended for use in low pressure situations.

A way of increasing the water flow and pressure is to remove the flow restrictor but that will most likely increase your water use and therefore your bills, and is potentially not allowed due to state regulations on maximum gallons per minute.

Spray Pattern

RV Showerhead

This is a matter of personal choice. While some people like an invigorating and firm spray, others love the soothing cascade of a rain pattern. And then there are those who prefer the traditional wide spray versus those who love a pulsing massage jet.

Many shower heads offer a range of spray patterns and intensities, which makes them more versatile and may be more suitable for a home where different family members may have different preferences.

Height

The ideal height will depend on the different people who might be using the shower. Most standard shower heads are fitted about 6 feet - 6 inches from the base of the stall/tub but, when positioning the head, the size of the users needs to be considered.

For example, there may be children using the shower and/or individuals who bathe in a seated position. It should be above the head of the tallest person but still reachable by the smallest. Handheld or dual shower heads offer more flexibility on height than fixed shower heads, as their height can be varied as necessary.

Built Quality

To ensure you’re getting the best quality, it’s advisable to check the reviews and buy from well-known manufacturers. A high pressure shower head has more parts than a standard shower head (the pressure chamber, for example).

As with most things, the better quality the product, the longer it’s likely to perform well, giving you a great shower every day.

Style

There’s a whole range of choice out there, from chic to retro-styled shower heads. Whether the look of your bathroom is classic or modern, you’ll find just the thing to blend seamlessly. Some brands offer a choice of color or finish with some models to match with your existing fittings.

Finish

There’s plenty of choice if you’re looking for different finishes: brushed nickel; chrome plated; polished brass effect; white; and even gold-plated.

All you need to do is to select one which closely matches the temperature controls or spout in your stall/tub. One thing to bear in mind is that chrome or highly-polished finishes can be troublesome to maintain, especially if you live in a hard water area.

Installation

You can choose between wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted showers. You’ll need to check the specification carefully to make sure it fits with your existing set-up or you’ll be in for extra expense on plumber’s time for new pipework, not to mention replacing tiles. 

The actual shower head should be a straightforward enough job, swapping out your old one for the new one is easy and instructions almost always provided by brands.

Warranty

These can range anywhere from 1 year to a lifetime limited warranty. Bear in mind that if a manufacturer is willing to offer a lengthy warranty that’s a good indicator of the quality of the product. If the quality is poor, the manufacturer won’t want to be liable for replacing it.


Special Features to Consider

Some models of high pressure shower heads offer additional features which you might like to consider. Here are just a few:

  • Digital controls
  • Touch controls
  • LED color-changing lights
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Adjustable shower pattern
  • Extended arms for extra reach
  • H2O Kinetic Technology to conserve water
  • Immersion Technology to produce greater force
  • Anystream 360 Technology offering 5 adjustable jets with 40 individual sprays and 12 massaging jets

12 Best High Pressure Shower Heads Reviewed

1. Speakman S-2005-HB Hotel Anystream 

Best High Pressure Shower Head

Flow Rate

2.5 GPM, 1.75 GPM, 2.0 GPM

Shower Head Size

3.25”

Shower Head Type

Fixed

Material

Plastic

Finish

Polished chrome, polished brass, brushed chrome, brushed nickel

Warranty

Lifetime - limited

There’s a good reason that Speakman shower heads are found in the bathrooms of luxury resorts all around the world. This brand is known for its excellent quality and dependable performance. With our ‘review’-based culture, no good hotel can get away with dribbling showers these days!

You’ll find the 50 full-coverage water streams and 8 center massage jets give you the most satisfying shower experience imaginable – you’ll feel like you’re on vacation every day!

The unique feature of this high pressure shower head is the Anystream 360 patented technology. You can customize the flow to suit your mood, anything from a powerful massage to a gentle rain spray and everything in between simply by adjusting the knob on the shower head.

And if you set it between intense and massage settings, you get all 58 jets at the same time – wow! You get the best of both worlds, with a spa-like shower. It is available in 3 different flow rates and comes in finishes making it stylish for most bathrooms.

And if you’d like to read some tips on making the most of your precious time in the shower, you can find them in this article.

This is our top choice because of the plethora of spray options, quality build and versatility in styles. 

A satisfied family reviewed the Speakerman shower head and said, "We had been told by a professional plumber that in order to get more water pressure in our shower and keep the water temperature regulated, we would have to remove the current pipes and replace them because they were installed backwards. Piping was behind tile. Big money project.All we did was replace our shower head with this one and it solved all our problems!! WOW!"

Pros
  • Adjustable to achieve different effects
  • Durable
  • Easy to install
  • Self-cleaning technology
Cons
  • Shower head area is quite small
  • Some problems with water flow rate
  • Internal fittings are plastic

2. WASSA 

No products found.

Best Rated High Pressure Shower Head

Flow Rate

2.5 GPM

Shower Head Size

3”

Shower Head Type

Fixed

Material

Plastic

Finish

Silver

Warranty

Lifetime - limited

Stop getting frustrated by the low water flow in your shower at home.

Runner up on our list is this excellent high pressure shower head from Wassa, with its 45 individual powerful jets that turn the lowest water pressure into a really luxurious and invigorating shower experience. A great way to start your day!

If you have low water flow at your house and you’re searching for a solution, this product from Wassa is the way to go. It’s an affordable way to turn an average shower into a luxury.

This product looks sleek, streamlined and smart with its shiny chrome finish, so it will look great in any bathroom. In spite of its metallic glossiness, it’s actually manufactured from premium ABS plastic so there’s no chance of it corroding.

Its brass swivel ball joint means you can direct the flow exactly where you want it. The anti-clog, anti-leak technology makes it hassle-free and it’s easy to install. It even comes complete with Teflon tape to make it super easy to connect to the shower arm in your bathroom in minutes.

Don’t just take our word for it, though. This product gets a whopping 4.8 stars out of 5 on Amazon. 

This is another solid choice and performs as well as our #1 choice. The only reason it is second on our list is because it lacks the range of styles that the Speakman has.

"I was scared to get into the shower at first! You can hear how strong the pressure is once you turn the water on! Very nice!" - A 5-Star review from an eBay customer 

Pros
  • 45 silicon jets
  • Inexpensive
  • Made with ABS plastic and brass ball swivel connection
  • G1/2” connection thread for easy installation
  • Stainless steel filter
Cons
  • Some problems with regulating pressure
  • Narrow head

3. Yoo.Mee 

Best High Pressure Handheld Shower Head

Flow Rate

2.5 GPM

Shower Head Size

3.3”

Shower Head Type

Handheld

Material

ABS plastic

Finish

Brushed nickel, chrome

Warranty

12 months unconditional

Although there are probably more fixed shower heads out there than handheld ones, the reality is that handheld showers are more versatile and user-friendly. Yoo.Mee guarantees a high-pressure shower even if you have a low-pressure water supply.

You’ll have no problem getting to those hard-to-reach areas with a handheld shower and the long stainless steel hose provided with this shower head gives plenty of scope.

If you have aches and pains, you can use the hand-held shower to massage painful muscles and bring relief - something you can’t do with a fixed shower head. You can also vary the pressure to your preference. The silicone rubber in the nozzles is soft to touch and also easy to clean meaning your dirt and limescale wont build up on this shower head. 

If you’re on a tight budget, this high-pressure shower head won’t break the bank since it’s actually one of the least expensive shower heads on the market. Somehow Yoo.Mee achieve the impossible: quality and economy.

Even better, Yoo.Mee offer a 12 month unconditional ‘no questions asked’ warranty, which in itself is an indicator of quality because no manufacturer would give such a guarantee on a poor quality product.

What this product offers is reliability, simplicity and practicality at a great price.

Pros
  • Handheld shower with adjustable pressure
  • Stainless steel flexible hose included
  • Works well with low-pressure water supply
  • 12 month unconditional warranty
  • Helps relieve muscular pain
Cons
  • Stainless steel hose can rust
  • Can be a little noisy

4. Delta Faucet 2-Spray 

Best High Pressure Water Saving Shower Head

Flow Rate

2.5 GPM/1.85 GPM

Shower Head Size

4”

Shower Head Type

Fixed

Material

Plastic

Finish

Chrome

Warranty

Lifetime - limited

Depending where you live, water can be a precious and often expensive commodity so taking steps not to waste more water than you need in the shower makes good sense.

The Delta Faucet 2-Spray Shower Head comes with 2 adjustable settings: an amplifying spray and an H20 Kinetic Spray, both of which conserve water but still create a satisfying cascade effect so you don’t feel you’re denying yourself anything. In fact, it provides three times more coverage than a standard shower head.

The feature of Delta H2O kinetic technology is that it ‘sculpts’ water into a unique wave pattern, providing greater coverage, intensity and warmth. You’re actually using 20% less water but the feeling is the same as you’d get from a standard flow shower.

The product proudly carries a WaterSense label. The spray is adjustable so you can choose to enjoy either a powerful, drenching shower or a gentler, water-efficient and relaxing flow.

You’ll find that the shower head is easy to clean as the spray holes are self-cleaning, preventing lime and mineral build-up and saving you time on cleaning. It’s backed by Delta’s lifetime limited warranty, so you can buy with confidence.

To find out more about this product, you can watch this video review which includes unboxing and fitting the shower head, so you can see how easy it is to do.

This is another great solution for anyone searching for a quality fixed shower head.

Pros
  • Water-efficient
  • Still feels like traditional shower
  • Choose from 2 settings
  • Self-cleaning
Cons
  • Some reviewers complain of materials being ‘cheap plastic’
  • Water pressure can be too intense for some people

5. WantBa Rainfall/Massage

Best High Pressure Massage Shower Head

Flow Rate

2.5 GPM

Shower Head Size

6”

Shower Head Type

Rainfall

Material

Plastic

Finish

Chrome

Warranty

contact Brand

With no less than 57 jets, this high pressure rainfall massage shower head offers a consistent powerful spray, even when the water pressure is low.

The extra width of the shower head gives a luxurious cascade of water – you’ll instantly feel like you’re on vacation or at a spa. If you’re looking for a little indulgence in your life, then this might be the just the thing you’ve been looking for.

The internal metal swivel ball allows you to adjust the angle of the shower head, so you can direct the water where you want it. The outlet holes are made of high-grade rubber, designed to repel lime and calcium deposits, so you can just wipe it clean from time to time – no scrubbing or heavy-duty chemicals required.

And if you really do have a hard water problem which causes build-up inside the shower head, all you need to do is to disassemble the shower head, clean out any debris or deposits within and put it back to work.

We all know how beneficial water massage can be, and regular massage in the shower is now different. OK, we know a shower isn’t going to have all the benefits of a professional hydro massage treatment but the idea of a daily shower massage is appealing nevertheless!

The WantBa is a great choice for those who like to be pampered at home. Best of all, with this system, it can be done at an affordable price tag.

WantBa user Maria says, "Excellent value for the price. Works great, looks beautiful. Absolutely love it!"

Pros
  • 57 individual jets
  • Variable massage options
  • Self-cleaning
  • Spa-like sensation
Cons
  • Plastic connection to existing pipe
  • Pressure can be too intense for some

6. Aqua Elegante 

High Pressure RV Shower Head

Flow Rate

2.5 GPM

Shower Head Size

3”

Shower Head Type

Fixed

Material

Plastic

Finish

Chrome, brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze

Warranty

5 years - limited

Aqua Elegante have gone all out to produce a high pressure shower head with a luxury feel, right down to the packaging. It’s available in 3 attractive metal finishes that live up to the name ‘Elegante’ and will fit into any bathroom design scheme, yet add a touch of class.

Not only that, they’ve made it super-easy to install, so you just remove your old shower head and twist the new shower head into position – all in an estimated 3 minutes.

Then you can jump into the tub/stall and enjoy the sensation of greatly improved water pressure – instead of a dull every-day process, you’ll instantly feel like you’re enjoying the luxury you might expect in a hotel room or a spa.

The company has made the flow restrictor easily removable, so you can enjoy more pressure still but, of course, the down side of that is more water usage and therefore higher bills. You might be willing to take that on the chin, though, if you think a great shower is worth the extra cost.

The shower head is made from high quality ABS plastic, with a brass connection fitting that won’t crack or split like plastic ones can/do. All in all, Aqua Elegante are so confident in the quality of this product that they offer a 5 year warranty.

If you’re looking for a high pressure shower head that’s easy to install, effective and durable, then this could be just what you need. It works for the home and RV but we have made special mention for campers on the road.. This is because of the slim design, sturdy construction and and easy installation.

If you still need encouragement to buy this shower head, this is what one very happy customer said: This shower head is great no matter how strong or weak your water pressure is.

I have purchased 6 for two houses, and it upgraded the pressure of water for the showers in both houses. This is a wonderful product, and I highly recommend to anyone! You can read more reviews on the Aqua Elegante home page.

Pros
  • Easy to install
  • Durable
  • High quality
  • 5 year warranty
Cons
  • Shower head could be wider for better coverage

7. Sertani Rain 8” Waterfall 

Best Rain Shower Head With High Pressure

Flow Rate

2.5 GPM

Shower Head Size

8”

Shower Head Type

Rainfall

Material

Metal – stainless steel

Finish

Chrome

Warranty

2 year – limited

These days the majority of bathroom accessories are made from plastic but if you prefer the quality, solidity and longevity of metal, this rainfall shower head from Sertani could be just the thing. It’s made of 100% stainless steel so there’s no chrome coating to wear off, no rust and no corrosion.

This shower head is large - the largets on our list as it's 8 x 8 inches in size. Thats big enough to cover anyone! It’s not heavy and clunky-looking though, as it’s only 2.2” thick. It’ll look eye-catching in your bathroom, giving it an instant luxurious upgrade. 

It’s simple and quick to install without any tools needed – it’s almost as easy as changing a light bulb!

You’ll find the flow from the 100 high pressure silicon nozzles both invigorating and soothing.  You can adjust the angle of flow to make sure you get coverage exactly where you want it.

If the company is confident enough in their product to offer a full 2 year warranty and satisfaction guarantee, then that’s a sure indicator of quality.

Most importantly, it puts out a great flow of water in dozens of little streams that cut minutes from your shower time because you get soaked and rinsed quickly. If you want a BIG shower head that feels like rainfall, then this Sertani is for you.

If you're specifically looking for a rain shower head, make sure to read our full buyer's guide.

Pros
  • Ultra-thin – just 2.2”
  • 100 individual silicon nozzles
  • Luxurious spa-style design
  • 2 year warranty plus satisfaction guarantee
  • Easy installation
Cons
  • Rate of flow not adjustable
  • Fixed head

8. AquaDance Twin Combo

Best High Pressure Dual Shower Head

Flow Rate

2.5 GPM

Shower Head Size

4”

Shower Head Type

Dual

Material

Plastic

Finish

Chrome

Warranty

Lifetime - limited

You really do get the best of both worlds with this combo set-up from AquaDance. This company is renowned for making quality shower heads for every need and their dual or combo is one of their best. They feature on all of our shower head lists but this time we will focus on the 'high-power twin'

There’s a high pressure fixed (but angle-adjustable) shower head and also a hand-held shower that doubles as an overhead shower. With these 2 shower heads and hose, you can direct the water exactly where and how you want it.

Both shower heads have 6 individual settings: Power Rain, Pulsating Massage, Power Mist, Rain Massage, Rain Mist and Water Saving Pause. The faces of both shower heads are chrome-plated and covered with rub-clean jets, designed to prevent limescale buildup, so they look smart and are easy to maintain.

There’s no need to call a plumber to fit it as it’s designed for easy installation in a few minutes with just 3 hand-tighten connections – no tools needed – and it fits any standard shower arm.

"Made with anti-microbial micro ban technology that inhibits the growth of mold, mildew and bacteria inside and around shower nozzles." - Home Improvement store Lowe's

This is a very smart-looking and versatile shower head, which has been thoughtfully designed. You’ll soon be wondering how you managed with just one shower head! The lifetime warranty should give peace of mind, too.

This system looks smart, is well-made and is one of the most bought shower accessories in the world. 

Pros
  • 6 different settings
  • Dual shower head for versatility
  • Tool-free installation
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Fully adjustable
Cons
  • Manufactured from plastic
  • Awkward to clean

9. A-Flow Luxury 6” 

Best Aerated High Pressure Shower Head

Flow Rate

2.5 GPM

Shower Head Size

6”

Shower Head Type

Fixed

Material

Plastic

Finish

Chrome

Warranty

No

If you’re on a tighter budget but are still looking for a relaxing and soothing luxurious spa-like shower experience, with the added feature of aeration when you want it, then this product from A-Flow could be the answer.

It has 5 functions- rain, massage, mist, aeration and pause – easily achieved by moving a lever on the side of the shower head. Just select whatever effect suits your mood, whether you need soothing or invigorating or something in between.

The shower head is extra-wide at 6”, which adds to the luxurious feel you get when you’re under the shower, as you get a really great soaking coverage. It feels more like the type of overhead rainfall shower you normally find in a spa.

It’ll add a little bit of luxury to your daily showering routine. You can direct the flow to suit yourself by adjusting the angle of the shower head.

You can install this shower yourself with no tools. It simply screws onto most standard shower arms. It couldn’t be easier and in no time you’ll be enjoying the benefits of an aerated high pressure shower head.

This product in the head only so it is best suited to those needing a quick and simple change. 

Pros
  • Inexpensive
  • 5 different settings including aeration & rainfall
  • Easy installation with no tools
  • Extra-wide 6” head
Cons
  • No warranty
  • Manufactured from plastic – query durability

10. Luxsego Ionic 

No products found.

High Pressure Ionic Filtration Shower Head

Flow Rate

2.5 GPM

Shower Head Size

3.15”

Shower Head Type

Dual

Material

Metal, plastic

Finish

Brushed chrome

Warranty

No

If you’re on the hunt for an ionic filtration shower head, then this outstanding product from Luxsego is our recommendation. If you’re new to the concept of ionic filtration, then click here to find out the many benefits which this type of system can offer.

In a nutshell, though, the potential benefits include shiny hair, softer skin and less chlorine. Many of us filter our drinking water, so why not filter the water we bathe in too?

The secret lies in the special infrared mineral stones and negative ion mineral stones which filter the water. The stones trap chlorine and absorb other harmful substances. You’ll use less water, so it’s eco-friendly in that way, too, and you’ll find an increase in water pressure of up to 200%!

There are 3 spray patterns – rainfall, jet and massage – so you can choose the effect you want to suit the way you feel. Do you want to be invigorated and recharged ready to face the day or do you want to wind down and be soothed? It’s up to you to choose.

This shower head is easy to install without professional help. It comes with a replacement hose and holder, so your bathroom will instantly look smarter.  It’s a quick and easy way to achieve the potential health benefits you’ve read about.

This system is best for anyone who likes to care for their hair and skin. My wife loves it!

Pros
  • Easy to disassemble and clean
  • Eco-friendly
  • Potential health benefits
  • Easy to install
Cons
  • Narrow shower face
  • Need to replace beads every 6-8 weeks
  • Some reviewers complain of staining in tub

11. High Sierra 1.5 GPM 

Low Flow High Pressure Shower Head

Flow Rate

1.5 GPM

Shower Head Size

1”

Shower Head Type

Fixed

Material

Metal

Finish

Chrome, brass, polished

Warranty

2 years limited

Water is a very precious resource in more arid parts of the country and even in wetter areas where demand is high due to increasing population.

If you’d like to enjoy a great shower but be secure in the knowledge that you’re saving water at the same time, then this low flow high pressure shower head from High Sierra is the answer. As well as saving water, you’ll save energy and also money, so it’s a win/win for you.

This USA made high quality, award winning patented shower nozzle ticks lots of boxes. You’ll get a strong spray of large drops which will invigorate you and give you a great shower experience. It’s so good that you’d never guess that it’s a low-flow shower.

The nozzle has a special patented design which won’t clog as so often happens with low-flow shower heads. It’s made from solid metal, so it’s durable, and comes in 4 different finishes to suit the design scheme of your bathroom: chrome, nickel, oil-rubbed bronze and polished brass.

 If you’d like to know more about High Sierra’s water-saving philosophy and their low-flow shower heads, you can learn more here.

We love the simplistic design and functionality. This is another great 'shower head only' option on the market. We've rated all the top low flow shower heads here.

Pros
  • Highly effective
  • WaterSense certified
  • All metal construction
  • Anti-clog design
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Noisy

12. Aqua Bliss Turbo Spa

Most Powerful Extreme High Pressure Showerhead

Flow Rate

2.5 GPM

Shower Head Size

3”

Shower Head Type

Standard

Material

Plastic

Finish

Chrome

Warranty

1 year - limited

Some people really enjoy the sensation of water cascading out of a shower at a really high pressure. It wakes them up, invigorates them and sets them up for anything the day can throw at them.

If that’s you, then look no further than this extreme high pressure shower head from Aqua Bliss. Their strap line for the product is ‘drench every inch’ and it certainly achieves that, with no dry spots and no chilly spots, and in double-quick time, too.  The steamy water streaming from the 42 nozzles massages your body and leaves you tingling all over.

It’s easy to install with no tools needed. All you have to do is twist your old shower head off the arm and twist on the Aqua Bliss TurboSpa and you’ll be indulging yourself in a stress-relieving, high pressure shower in no time.

If the other 11 on our list are not strong and powerful enough then get this system. It is sure to keep the skin feeling refreshed.

"Now you don’t have to leave the home to experience the relaxing hydrotherapy spa treatment you love because AquaBliss Turbo-Spa’s 42 ultra-high pressure shower head nozzles accelerated channeling system force a torrent of massaging water through each individual channel at maximum force – so you experience indulgent relief, just like a day at the spa, without rearranging your schedule." - Aquabliss

Pros
  • Superlative coverage
  • 42 high-pressure nozzles
  • Pivot point to direct flow where needed
  • Self-cleaning, anti-clog nozzles
Cons
  • Some people find pressure too extreme

Different Types of Shower Heads

Fixed

This type of shower head is probably the most common. They are permanently fixed to the wall. There are no visible hoses to clean and maintain but the down side is that there’s no flexibility or versatility to use the shower in different ways for different needs for different family members.

Dual

These shower heads combine 2 types of showers, usually a fixed head and a separate hand-held head connected by a hose. This gives more flexibility to use the shower method that suits you best.

They’re a little more expensive but you may feel it’s worth paying for the versatility. In situations where water pressure is extremely low, this option can help to ensure that you get all your whole body completely clean, upstairs and down.

Handheld

These shower heads are attached to a sliding rail, so the height can be varied as needed. They give the best of both worlds, doing the job of a dual shower but cheaper as they can be used like a fixed shower but can also be detached. More of our favorite handheld shower heads can be found here.

Rainfall, Waterfall or Jet

There’s no doubt that most people think of a rainfall shower head as being very relaxing and luxurious but they can in reality offer a somewhat frustrating showering experience.

Firstly, they’re fixed in position over your head, so getting your lower body parts really clean isn’t so easy.

 Secondly, most rainfall shower heads will only offer a default spray setting which makes them less adaptable to your mood or your needs.

Rain Shower Head

Laminar Flow

Don't be put off by this jargon – what this actually means is a standard shower head where the water comes out in uniform streams. It’s a very dependable flow which works well everywhere.

Aerated

This type of shower head creates high water pressure by adding air into the stream of water, producing a flow which is more misty/broken.  If you prefer a single stream of water from your shower head to effectively clean certain areas, you’ll find that an aerated shower head will won’t do the job as well as other types of shower heads.

We wouldn’t recommend aerated shower heads for use in more humid climates as they give off an enormous amount of steam, giving rise to a potential for mold or mildew in your bathroom. They can be a good addition to home sauna's and gyms.


Installation & Maintenance

The good news is that it isn’t usually necessary to call a professional to install a high pressure shower head as it’s easy to do yourself. Some shower heads come with the necessary tools for the job, while others may require you to provide the tools for the installation.

Basically, to swap out the shower head you simply need two tools:

  • Teflon Tape
  • Wrench

To install a high pressure shower head, you should never ever skip on the Teflon tape. It’s a fundamental need! When you wrap the Teflon tape round the threads of the pipe where it comes out of the wall, you’ll be able to ensure there’s no leakage and that means no loss of pressure.

Always follow manufacturer’s instructions on cleaning and maintaining your shower head to prolong its useful life and keep it working optimally.

Whole systems like the combo or dual heads may require more planning and precision if you are swapping an existing single system to a more complex or large unit that attaches in several places to the wall. If you are inexperienced with these then a plumber is your safest option. 


3 Ways to Improve Water Pressure in the Shower

  • 1
    Check to see if there’s a water saver (sometimes called a flow restrictor) inside your shower head. You could remove it but you should also be aware that this could contravene state laws which restrict the water flow to a maximum of 2.5 gpm. Added to that, you’d be using a lot more water (and therefore energy) which would increase your bills.
  • 2
    Call a plumber to investigate the cause of the problem. It could be that there are leaks that have gone undetected, or there could be debris present in the pipes.
  • 3
    Mineral deposits (calcium, magnesium, lime, etc) could be another reason for the low pressure in your shower head. You’ll be able to find some helpful tips for dealing with them here. You may be surprised just how much the flow rate improves when you’ve de-gunked your shower head.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

How long do high pressure shower heads last?

Like with anything, this is the unknown. Factors such as hard water will reduce the life of your shower head but otherwise we’d just recommend cleaning it regularly in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions to prolong its useful life. The longer the warranty the better it is for you as well.

How much water will I use if I remove the water saver device?

Flow restrictors, are designed to reduce the water flow in a shower head to 2.5 gallons per minute. State legislation requires that shower head manufacturers install a flow restrictor in shower heads. It’s intended to save people money on water and energy bills and also to preserve this precious and dwindling resource.

If you live in an area with low water pressure, though, the flow restrictor can reduce your shower to a disappointing dribble. Removing the water restrictor will improve your shower pressure to normal, but it may also increase your water bills.

The higher the shower pressure, the more additional water you’ll use but it’s not easily quantifiable. The US government calculates that a residential home uses 80-100 gallons of water per day.

How do you replace a high pressure shower head?

We think it’s better to show than to tell, so take a look at this clip to find out how to do it.

How high should a shower head or holder be?

There’s no requirement for household shower heads to be at a specific height, but, in modern construction, they are often placed about 6 feet 6 inches from the base of the stall/tub. When positioning the head, the size of the users needs to be considered.

For example, there may be children using the shower and individuals who bathe in a seated position. It should be above the head of the tallest person but still reachable by the smallest.

How do I know if I have a good water pressure at home?

Check it using this link.

Are high pressure shower heads legal?

Yes, as long as they meet the state’s regulations, including the 2.5 GPM maximum flow. This page will showcase your state and what is allowed.


Conclusion

The vast amount of choice out there can make it difficult to find exactly the right high pressure shower head for your particular needs. If you select the right product, you’ll be able to enjoy the luxury of a really invigorating and enjoyable showering experience.

It can be a chore trawling through the endless options but we’ve done the hard work so you don’t have to. Take a look at our recommendations for the 12 best high pressure shower heads.

If we had to pick just one out of the 12 high-performing products we’ve selected, we’d go for the Speakman S-2005-HB Hotel Anystream. It combines a sleek contemporary design with outstanding performance. It’s enhanced by the Anystream 360 technology, allowing you to select precisely the right flow to suit your mood and make your day.

Caitlin Shaffer has been traveling & working as a content writer & SCUBA dive instructor since 2014. Having lived in Central & South America, Southeast Asia, India, & Australia, Caitlin has had many years of experience with a variety of kitchen, bathroom, plumbing systems & common household products. Other than writing about her plumbing experiences & knowledge, her main passions are yoga, ocean conservation, & sustainable development.

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