Informational Guide

Rain Shower Head Pros And Cons

A new showerhead can transform your shower experience. This guide takes a closer look at rain shower head pros and cons.

by Ian Haynes

Upgrading your bathroom is just one way you can rejuvenate your home and your daily routine. Getting a new shower head, like a rain shower head, can elevate a simple shower into a spa-like experience. If you are considering whether to choose a rain shower head vs. a traditional shower head for your next upgrade, read this guide to discover the difference between the two.

Designed to mimic rainfall, rain shower heads come in various shapes and sizes to suit your interior design ideas. Very fancy-looking rain shower heads are typically seen in sleek and expensive spa or hotel bathrooms. But why do people love them so much?

The Drenching Spray

Rain shower heads are much larger than standard shower heads, often 6-10 inches wide or more. This wider head means that it can drench your entire body from its fixed position in the ceiling or wall – no awkward moving around to get every body part. The many spray nozzles provide a gentle and relaxing water flow that can often be adjusted with additional spray settings.

Adjustable Options

  • Flexible Neck
    For those who need options in their daily routine, the flexible neck of rain shower heads makes it easy to avoid getting your hair wet if needed.
  • Adjustable Arm
    The adjustable arm of a rain shower head means that it can be suited to various heights or shower sizes.
  • Pivoting Shower Face
    Are you looking to avoid drenching your hair or shoulders? The pivoting shower face can help you stay dry when you need to.
Rain Shower Heads Pros And Cons

Things to Consider When Choosing a Rain Shower Head

Wall mount Vs. ceiling mount

Rain shower heads are typically mounted on the ceiling for a more authentic rainfall experience. However, this can lead to expensive bathroom renovations, so wall-mounted ones are available. In the rain shower head ceiling vs. wall debate, consider what works best for your home.

The shape

Typically available with square or round heads, your shower head's design should match your bathroom's existing style. Square rain shower heads are often seen in minimalist angular bathrooms, while rounded ones are usually in cozier bathrooms.

The size

When choosing a rain shower head, we recommend considering your home's water pressure as well as the size of your shower. Rain shower heads are typically 6-10 inches wide, but 12-inch ones are also available. Getting an overly large shower head may not look right in your home – measure everything out ahead before purchasing.

The finish

While most often seen in a polished silver style, rain shower heads are available in various colors and finishes. From metal tones to brushed to rubbed to oiled finishes, you can surely find a design that suits your vision.


Pros & Cons of Rain Shower Heads

What rain shower head pros and cons should you consider before purchase?

Things We Like

  • Relaxing Rainfall Experience
    The value of a relaxing showering experience in the comfort of your home cannot be overstated.
  • Full Coverage
    The large size of the shower head means that you do not have to move around in order to clean your entire body, unlike with traditional showers.
  • Gentle And Smooth Flow
    With rain shower heads, you can get a rainfall-like experience without having to wait for a real rainstorm.
  • Aesthetic Design
    Rainfall shower heads are sleek and impressive looking – they instantly add a splash of sophistication and luxury to any bathroom.
  • Advanced Features
    From various pressure settings to mist functions to light showers, rainfall shower heads are truly a modern innovation.
  • Water-Saving Systems
    For those concerned about their impact on the environment, rainfall shower heads provide this luxury experience without changing water pressure or usage.
  • Easy To Clean
    Being so sleek and compact, rain shower heads are quick and easy to clean, just like standard shower heads.
  • Quick To Install
    Rain shower heads are also quick to install into your home, thanks to modern engineering designs.

Things We Dislike

  • Higher Price
    Often seen in expensive bathrooms, rain shower heads are usually more costly than the traditional shower head you will come across in-store.
  • Installation Issues
    Because of the unusual ceiling design, installing rain shower heads can be difficult and expensive. You may even need to rip out your walls to install one with the help of a professional.
  • Not Suitable For Low-Pressure Areas
    Rain shower heads seem to reduce the water pressure because it spreads the water across a broad face and through many nozzles. In reality, it does not change the pressure at all. If you live in an area with low existing water pressure, the rain shower head may not be as effective.

Rain Shower Vs. Traditional Shower Heads

Size

In terms of rain shower head vs. regular shower heads, rain ones are larger than their traditional counterparts. While this is not necessarily a problem for people with larger showers or bathrooms, it can look out of place in cramped bathrooms. Consider your proportions before choosing a shower head for your home.

Water flow rate

As traditional shower heads are smaller and more compact, they can produce higher water flow during a shower than their rainfall counterparts. Which shower head you prefer will depend on your home water pressure and what kind of water flow you prefer in your shower experience.

Placement

Traditional shower heads are mounted on the wall, while standard rain shower heads are mounted on the ceiling. This can be tricky in terms of installation, but wall-mounted rain shower heads can be found if that is preferable for you.

Shower experience

While rain shower heads provide a luxurious spa-like experience, traditional shower heads offer an efficient and almost massaging shower. Some people prefer a more powerful showering experience with a narrower head. In contrast, others prefer to slow down with a gentle shower.

Time management

Because the flow is much gentler, you may find yourself spending more time in a rainfall shower rather than a traditional shower. Traditional showers are more powerful and efficient, making it easier to get in and out of them relatively quickly.

Cost

Rainfall showers are often more expensive than their traditional counterparts both upfront and in terms of installation costs. Because they are typically mounted on the ceiling, you may need to rip apart your walls and change your plumbing system with a professional's help, which adds up over time. Standard shower heads are much easier to install by comparison.

Body movement

Traditional shower heads provide a smaller spread of water to work with, which means that you need to adjust your body position throughout the shower to clean yourself. Rain shower heads are much broader and can get your entire body wet with little physical adjustment from you.

Rain Shower Vs. Traditional Shower Heads shower head

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Are rain shower heads easy to clean?

Rain shower heads are just as easy to clean as their traditional counterparts. Depending on the material and finish, you can even clean it with standard products, vinegar, or other methods.

How do I increase the pressure in my rain shower head?

There are a variety of ways to increase the pressure in your rain shower head. We recommend cleaning it thoroughly first and adjusting the central shut-off valve before installing a shower pump or replacing the head entirely.

How do you replace a rain shower head?

To replace your rain shower head, we recommend getting a similar model with similar parts and following the product manual carefully and safely. Alternatively, contact a professional to help.

How much does it cost to install a rain shower head?

The price of installation varies depending on your plumbing needs and area. However, typically, a shower head costs around $250, and it can cost up to $600 to install. You can find free quotes from your area by filling in the form below.

Should shower head be centered?

We recommend centering your shower head to ensure that you have enough room to move and wash without worrying about bumping into things.


Conclusion

A rain shower head can provide a truly unique experience and bring various benefits to your everyday routine. When deciding between a rain shower head vs. standard shower heads, consider your situation carefully and consult with a professional if necessary.

Ian Haynes is an expert writer who has successfully deployed over 500 plumbing pages and other related content. He has an excellent understanding of home plumbing issues and translates his experiences via Plumbing Lab so readers can have a better understanding of common household problems. Outside of his work, Ian likes exploring Brooklyn with his Labrador.

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