9 common types of shower heads - pros, cons and pricing

Understating the advantages and disadvantages of different shower heads can help inform you of the best choice for your bathroom. We've rounded up some of the most popular shower head types available to help you through the process of choosing a new shower head that's perfect for your home.

Fixed shower heads, also known as mounted or wall-mounted shower heads, are a classic and common type of shower head that's typically installed directly on the bathroom wall or ceiling. They're securely attached to a shower arm or wall. They come in various designs and spray styles, including single spray, rain shower, and multi-function options.

Pros:

Available in a variety of styles: One of the significant benefits of fixed shower heads is the wide range of styles, finishes, and sizes available. Whether your bathroom décor is traditional or contemporary, you're likely to find a fixed shower head that suits your design preferences.

Easy to use: Fixed shower heads are straightforward and easy to use, with few moving parts. They're ideal for people who prefer a simple, hands-free showering experience.

Stable design: As these shower heads are mounted to the wall or ceiling, they're highly stable and durable.

Cons:

Limited flexibility: Unlike handheld or sliding models, fixed shower heads offer limited flexibility. They can't be moved or adjusted to target specific areas of the body, which may be a disadvantage for some users.

Can be difficult to clean: Depending on the mounting height and angle, fixed shower heads can sometimes be difficult to clean, particularly for those who struggle with reach.

Price:

Fixed shower heads will often come with a shower arm and range in price between $50 for a budget option up to $500 for a more premium choice.

Rain shower heads are a unique style of shower head that are designed to deliver water in a manner that simulates the fall of natural rain. These shower heads are typically larger in size and installed directly overhead, either from the ceiling or from a wall-mounted arm, to provide a vertical, all-encompassing water stream.

Pros

They provide a luxurious shower experience: One of the primary appeals of rain shower heads is the luxurious and spa-like experience they provide. The gentle and even distribution of water is incredibly relaxing and can transform a regular shower into a soothing escape.

They provide broad water coverage: Thanks to their larger size, rain shower heads typically offer a wider spray coverage than standard models, enveloping the user in water and ensuring a thorough rinse.

Contemporary appearance: Rain shower heads are generally sleek and modern in appearance, and they can add a touch of sophistication and elegance to any bathroom.

Cons:

Higher costs compared to other shower heads: Rain shower heads are often more expensive than standard models, both in terms of the initial purchase price and the installation costs. Their luxurious nature and large size contribute to these higher costs.

Increased water usage: Because of their wide spray and multiple nozzles, rain shower heads tend to use more water than traditional shower heads. This could potentially increase your water bill, especially if your household takes lengthy showers.

Installation can be complex: Installing a rain shower head may require more extensive plumbing work, especially if it needs to be ceiling-mounted. This could potentially require the services of a professional plumber.

Price:

Rain shower heads can range from $100 for a budget model to $650 for a more upmarket option.

Handheld shower heads are versatile fixtures that detach from their mount, allowing you to control the direction of the water spray. They are attached to a long hose, usually made of stainless steel or other durable materials, providing flexibility and an extended reach. Handheld shower heads are popular due to their convenience and ease of use, offering a customisable shower experience for users of all ages and abilities.

Pros

Versatility and convenience: The main advantage of handheld showerheads is their flexibility. They can be detached from the wall mount, allowing you to direct the water flow exactly where you want it, which can be particularly beneficial for rinsing off, bathing children, washing pets, or even cleaning the shower area.

Adjustable settings: Many handheld showerheads come with different spray settings, offering customization options ranging from a gentle mist to a powerful massage.

Accessibility: Handheld showerheads can be a practical choice for individuals with mobility issues or for elderly persons, as they allow showering while seated or with minimal movement.

Cons:

Potential for leaks: Due to the moving parts and extra connections, handheld shower heads may be more prone to leaks over time compared to fixed models.

Lower water pressure: Handheld shower heads might not provide the same high pressure as some fixed models due to the need to travel through a longer hose, which could be a drawback for those who prefer a more powerful shower.

Price

Handheld shower heads will typically come with a hose and wall mount; they can range in price from $100 for a budget choice all the way up to $1200 for a premium model. 

A dual or double shower head consists of two separate shower heads in one unit. One is typically a fixed showerhead, while the other is often handheld. They can function independently or simultaneously. Whether you can use both shower heads simultaneously depends on the type of shower diverter you have. If you have a three-way diverter, you can switch the water flow between the wall-mounted shower head, handheld or both.

Pros:

Versatile: One of the main advantages of dual shower heads is their versatility. Users can switch between the handheld and fixed shower head according to their needs, or use both simultaneously for a more immersive experience.

Impressive water flow: Dual shower heads can deliver water from different angles, providing increased coverage and making it easier to rinse off.

Convenient: The addition of a handheld shower head offers convenience, especially for families with children, individuals with mobility issues, or pet owners who need to bathe their pets in the shower.

Cons:

Double shower heads use more water: Using two shower heads simultaneously can result in higher water consumption, potentially leading to increased water bills.

Installation can be complex: The installation process for dual shower heads can be more complicated than for single shower heads. You might need professional help to install these types of shower heads correctly.

Higher costs compared to standard shower heads: Dual shower heads can be more expensive than standard shower heads due to the additional features and hardware.

Price

Dual shower heads can range in price from $400 - $1800.

5. High-pressure shower heads

A high-pressure showerhead is a specially designed shower head that amplifies the water pressure, providing a powerful, spa-like shower experience. This is achieved through innovative design elements, such as specialized nozzles or adjustable spray settings, which increase the velocity of water flow without necessarily increasing water consumption.

Pros

Invigorating shower experience: High-pressure showerheads provide a powerful water flow, simulating a spa-like experience, which can be both refreshing and relaxing.

Efficient rinsing: The increased water pressure can make rinsing off soap and shampoo faster, leading to shorter shower times and potentially saving water in the long run.

Useful in low pressure areas: For homes with low water pressure, these showerheads can significantly improve the shower experience by amplifying the pressure.

Cons

Compatibility issues: High-pressure showerheads may not be compatible with all plumbing systems, especially older ones, potentially necessitating costly plumbing upgrades.

Increased energy consumption: While they can save water by shortening shower times, they could potentially use more hot water due to the higher pressure, increasing energy consumption for water heating.

Potential for mineral build-up: The small holes in the high-pressure showerheads can be susceptible to mineral build-up, particularly in areas with hard water. This requires regular cleaning to maintain the desired water pressure.

Price

Prices for high-pressure powerheads can range between $30 - $150 for the shower head, expect to pay more for a entire shower unit.

A filtered shower head is a type of shower head designed to purify the water that flows through it. These shower heads are equipped with built-in water filters that work to remove various impurities such as chlorine, dust, heavy metals, and bacteria from the water. This can result in a cleaner, safer, and more healthy shower experience. Individual shower head filters can often be purchased separately and easily attached to an existing shower head for conversion.

Pros:

Improved water quality: By filtering out various impurities, filtered shower heads significantly enhance the quality of the water you use to bathe. This can result in noticeable benefits for your skin and hair health, as chlorine and other chemicals often strip the skin and hair of natural oils, causing dryness and irritation.

Reduced exposure to potential allergens: Filtered shower heads can also reduce the risk of allergenic reactions by removing potential allergens from the water. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with sensitive skin or allergies.

Prevents limescale build-up: The purification process of filtered shower heads can also reduce limescale build-up in the shower. Limescale, a result of hard water, can lead to blockages and reduce the lifespan of your shower fixtures.

Cons:

Requires regular maintenance: The filters in these shower heads need to be replaced regularly to continue effectively removing impurities. The frequency of replacement depends on the quality of your water source and the specifics of the model you choose.

Higher initial costs: Filtered shower heads can be more expensive upfront compared to traditional shower heads due to their advanced filtration technology.

Limited filtration capabilities: While these shower heads can filter out many types of impurities, not all models can remove all contaminants. Some may be more effective at removing certain substances than others, which may necessitate the use of additional water purification systems.

Price:

Filtered shower heads can range in price from $75 - $200. Individual shower filters can be purchased for between $50 - $75.

Water efficient showerheads, also known as low-flow showerheads, are designed to minimise water usage without compromising the quality of the shower experience. They achieve this through features such as pressure-compensating flow regulators and aeration techniques that mix water with air, thereby using less water while still providing an adequate shower flow. Water efficient shower heads can be particularly well suited to the dry Australian climate where water conservation is key.

Pros:

Water conservation: The main advantage of water-efficient showerheads is their ability to reduce water consumption. They use significantly less water than traditional showerheads, which is not only beneficial for the environment but can also lead to substantial savings on water bills.

Energy savings: Lower water usage also translates into less demand for water heating, potentially resulting in considerable energy savings.

Variety of options: These showerheads come in various styles and types, including handheld, fixed, and rain shower models, providing plenty of options to suit different preferences and needs.

Cons:

Reduced water pressure: Some users might find the water pressure of low-flow showerheads to be insufficient, especially those accustomed to high-pressure showers.

Longer Shower Times: Due to the lower water pressure, rinsing off soap and shampoo might take longer, which could potentially offset some of the water-saving benefits.

Initial Cost: Water-efficient showerheads can be more expensive upfront than conventional models, although the cost can usually be recouped over time through water and energy savings.

Price:

Depending on the make and model water efficient showerheads can range in price from $100 - $1800

Outdoor shower heads are specialized fixtures, primarily installed in outdoor environments for functional or recreational use. Their common applications include providing facilities for rinsing off sand after a beach visit, washing away chlorine post-swimming, or even for gardening purposes. These showers are usually designed to be sturdy and weather-resistant, often made with materials such as stainless steel or brass to resist corrosion.

Pros

Convenience: Having an outdoor shower is extremely convenient for those who often spend time swimming or engaging in outdoor activities. It helps to keep the indoors clean by allowing people to wash off dirt, sand, and chlorine before entering the house.

Durability: Designed to withstand weather elements, outdoor shower heads are often made of robust, corrosion-resistant materials, ensuring they remain functional and attractive for a long time.

Aesthetic appeal and added property value: A well-designed outdoor shower can enhance the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space and potentially increase property value, especially in beach or poolside homes.

Cons:

Privacy concerns: Unless properly designed and located, an outdoor shower may lack privacy. It's crucial to consider location, screening, and potential view points when installing one.

Installation can be complex: An outdoor shower typically requires more complex installation involving plumbing and drainage systems. It may also need to comply with local regulations regarding wastewater.

Limited usage: Depending on your location, use of the outdoor shower may be limited to warmer months, making it a seasonal convenience. In colder climates, the pipes may also need to be winterized to prevent freezing and bursting.

Price:

Individual outdoor shower heads typically range from $50 -$200, of course the price will be higher if the shower heads is purchased as part of an entire outdoor shower unit.

Rail shower heads are an innovative and functional option for any modern bathroom setting. This design incorporates a shower head that is mounted onto a vertical rail or bar system. The shower head is adjustable and can slide up and down the rail, allowing for an adaptable height configuration. This design makes the rail shower head a perfect fit for households with multiple users of differing heights, as it can cater to each individual's specific needs.

Pros:

Versatility: The rail shower head provides unparalleled versatility due to its adjustable nature. It caters to individuals of all heights, ensuring a comfortable and customized shower experience for all users.

Handheld option: The detachable handheld shower head is another feature that enhances its versatility. This component can facilitate a more focused and controlled showering experience, perfect for rinsing specific areas or for bathing tasks that require a more concentrated water flow.

Design appeal: Rail shower heads often incorporate a sleek and modern aesthetic. They can serve as a design centrepiece in a bathroom, marrying functionality with visual appeal. They add an element of luxury and sophistication, upgrading your standard shower setup to a more spa-like experience.

Cons

Installation: The installation process of a rail shower head is typically more complex compared to a standard fixed shower head. This often necessitates professional assistance, which can add to the overall cost and time required for setup.

Higher initial Cost: While the rail shower head provides many added benefits, these features come at a price. These shower heads are generally more expensive than their standard counterparts, representing a more significant upfront investment.

Increased maintenance: Due to the added components and complexity of the rail shower system, there is a potential for more maintenance and repairs over time. Components may wear out or malfunction, requiring replacement or professional service. However, with proper care and maintenance, these issues can be minimised.

Price:

Due to their design, rail shower heads are typically sold as part of a rail shower unit. You can expect to pay between $200 - $700 for this type of shower unit. 

As you can see, there's a wide array of shower head types available. If you're shopping for a new one, it's important to think about which type you prefer, your style preferences, and how much you want to spend. By taking these into account, you're bound to find a shower head that suits your bathroom perfectly.

Related article: How to choose the best shower head in Australia