European showers typically feature an overhead showerhead, along with a hand-held showerhead, making them incredibly versatile. The overhead showerhead typically has a thermostatic valve that allows you to easily control the temperature of the water.
This valve usually has a scald guard feature- which prevents the water from getting too hot- and often is accompanied by a shut-off button that allows you to turn off the water with the simple push of a button.
Most European showers also come with a diverter valve, which allows you to switch between the overhead and hand-held showerheads with ease. Depending on the model, the diverter can be a single-lever, dual-lever or push-button control.
Most European showers also feature a high-pressure system, which increases the water pressure for a more enjoyable showering experience. Another key component of European showers is the built-in anti-scalding device, which prevents the water from getting too hot, thus providing a safer showering experience.
Finally, many European showers also come with adjustable or fixed-height arms, so you can easily alter the height of your overhead or handheld showerhead to your comfort.
What does European style bathroom mean?
A European style bathroom typically refers to a bathroom which is designed according to standards of modern European design. This can include elements such as clean lines, neutral hues, and walls which are often left bare.
The main emphasis is usually placed on functionality, but with a touch of elegance and luxury, as well. Common elements found in a European style bathroom may include wall-mounted storage systems, sleek, chrome fixtures and accessories, smooth surfaces and distinctive shapes such as those seen in contemporary radiators, and frame-less glass shower screens.
Accessories may also include contemporary pieces such as towel warmers, under-floor heating, and heated towel rails. Quality and luxury materials such as marble also tend to feature in many European style bathrooms.
Why are European bathtubs so high?
European bathtubs are typically higher than American ones because they are meant to be more of a soaking tub than a traditional American-style bathtub. Many European homes are older and have less space, making it difficult to fit a traditional American-style bathtub.
Soaking tubs use less water, which helps conserve energy and water. Additionally, the higher sides of a soaking tub also provide more support for a person who sits or leans back in the tub, making for a more comfortable and luxurious experience.
European tubs are deeper, making it great for a long, peaceful soak. Lastly, the higher sides of a European bathtub also provide a more professional look, making it a great fit in a professional setting.
Do Europeans have shower curtains?
Yes, Europeans do have shower curtains. They are generally made from plastic, although higher-end curtains may be made from fabric or special materials like vinyl. Shower curtains are used to keep water from splashing out of the bathtub or shower area onto the bathroom floor.
They can range in size and color depending on the user’s preference, and some varieties are designed with a weighted bottom hem to help keep them in place when in use.
What is a French shower?
A French shower is a type of shower fixture and plumbing system that is popular in Europe. It is sometimes referred to as a “rain shower” because of the way that it distributes water. It uses multiple jets of water positioned to aim at the user from different angles, creating a shower effect similar to a rainfall.
The jets are usually adjustable so that the user can customize the type and direction of the spray. The jets in a French shower are often controlled with a thermostatic mixer to get the temperature just right.
French showers are also distinguished by being wall-mounted, as opposed to overhead showers that are mounted on the ceiling. These showers provide a luxurious and customised showering experience, making them a popular fixture in high-end bathrooms.
What can I use instead of a shower curtain?
Many people opt for a shower door instead of a shower curtain. Shower doors come in either framed, frameless, sliding and pivot styles and can be custom made to fit specific shower sizes. These doors are usually made of either aluminum, steel, or glass and are usually easy to clean, as they are water and steam resistant.
While shower doors require more installation and upkeep than curtains, they can be designed to match other bathroom fixtures and come in a variety of designs and finishes to match personal tastes. Another alternative to curtains is a shower screen, which consists of a glass panel that acts as a wall to prevent splashing.
These screens require less installation and may not be as expensive as shower doors, but they do require more maintenance and cleaning because the material is prone to water stains.
Why do some showers have half a door?
Some showers have a half door because it maximizes the space in the bathroom and prevents water from splashing onto the floor when someone takes a shower. The half door is generally hinged at the top to allow for easy access, and depending on the size of the bathroom, can be open or closed completely.
During installation, a plumber will measure the walls and fit the door accordingly, enabling the homeowner to maximize the space and avoid water splashing. Additionally, half doors are generally easier to clean than full size doors due to their basic design, making them popular choices for those who want a functional and easy to maintain shower.
What is the shower head on the market?
There is a wide variety of shower heads available on the market. From fixed shower heads, rainfall shower heads, handheld shower heads, filtered shower heads, and dual shower heads, the possibilities are almost endless.
Fixed shower heads are the most common, and typically mount in the center of a shower ceiling or wall. These provide a steady, consistent stream of water and are adjustable, allowing you to direct the water where it is needed most.
Rainfall shower heads are mounted on the wall or ceiling and provide a wide, cascading, gentle rain-like shower. Handheld shower heads, as the name suggests, are attached to a flexible hose, making them a great choice for multitasking in the shower.
Filtered shower heads are designed to reduce the amount of chlorine, hardness minerals, sulfur, and other contaminants present in your water. Dual shower heads allow two people to shower at the same time, and include both fixed and handheld heads.
Ultimately, the type of shower head you choose will depend on your personal preference, budget, and the size of your shower.
What are the different types of shower heads?
There are a variety of different types of shower heads available, depending on your needs and preferences.
The most common types of shower heads are fixed mount, handheld, and rain shower heads. Fixed mounts are stationary and installed at a predetermined height, perfect for showering without having to stand on a step or adjust the height yourself.
Handheld showerheads are perfect for those who want more control over their shower experience. They are mounted on a detached hose that allows you to adjust the height manually, allowing for a relaxing and invigorating experience.
Rain showers are a popular choice for many homeowners, as they offer a luxurious and refreshing experience. They are typically mounted above your head and release water from above, much like a spring shower on a warm day.
Multi-function showerheads are great for those who want the best of both worlds. They offer various settings such as rain, mist and massage, each dramatically different from the other.
Finally, there are ceiling-mounted showerheads that attach directly to the ceiling and feature a few jets of water shooting downwards in a variety of directions. They offer a great alternative to a fixed mount or handheld showerhead and are popular in hotel bathrooms.
What is a standard shower head?
A standard shower head is the most basic type of shower head and is often installed in homes using a bathroom with a tub or corner shower. Generally, it is a small plastic or metal head that you attach to the shower plumbing in order to direct the water coming out of the shower.
Standard shower heads usually have several different settings, such as a wide stream or spray, and some may even feature a massage with pulsating jets. These showers are usually used to keep the body or hair wet to help you soap up or shampoo your hair before you rinse off with the shower head.
They are also perfect for shorter showers, as you can concentrate the water in the area you need it most with the different settings. Additionally, standard shower heads usually come in different sizes and styles so that you can customize the look and feel of your bathroom.
Some even have LED lights that change colors, adding a fun touch and a unique aesthetic to your bathroom.
Does any shower head fit any shower?
No, not all shower heads are compatible with all showers. While most shower heads are designed to fit a standard size shower arm, there are many variations in shape, size, and fitting that could make some shower heads incompatible with certain showers.
Additionally, the water pressure of your home and pipes may determine the shower head that fits best in your shower. It is important to check the compatibility of the shower head before purchasing it to ensure that it will fit the arm of your shower.
If you are unsure, it is best to consult a plumber or home renovation expert.
Are all shower heads Universal?
No, not all shower heads are universal. The connection on a shower head typically connects to either a female or male thread, and it’s important to know which type of shower arm you have before purchasing a shower head.
Even if you have a female thread shower arm, there are different sizes and shapes. An extra-long shower arm will usually require a different type of shower head than a standard size shower arm. Additionally, some shower heads have larger water flow than others so it’s important to make sure the shower head you purchase is compatible with the water pressure of your shower.
Lastly, some shower heads let you adjust the water pressure while other shower heads only have one setting. Therefore, it’s important to do some research to determine which type of shower head is best for you before making a purchase.
How do I know what kind of shower head I have?
To determine what kind of shower head you have, you can take a look at the shower head itself. If it looks like a traditional, round shower head with a circular base and a single arm, then it is likely a standard shower head.
If it looks more like a rain shower head, it will usually have a larger, rectangular base and several arms spread out from the center. If it looks like a handheld shower head, it will have a hose attached that you can maneuver to direct the water as needed.
Additionally, a shower head may also contrast other features, such as adjustable heads, water pressure settings, and a variety of spray patterns. In short, by inspecting the shower head, you should be able to determine what kind of shower head it is.
Do all shower heads fit the same US?
No, all shower heads do not fit the same US shower. The installation of a shower head can vary depending on the type of shower head, the type of water connection, and the type of shower faucet. You’ll need to use a different shower head depending on whether you have a shower faucet with a wall-mount model, a tub mount model, or a tub-faucet-mount model.
You’ll also need to make sure that the shower head you are purchasing is compatible with your water connection type. Most US showers have one-half inch or three-quarter inch water connections, but you’ll need to make sure that the shower head you’re looking at is compatible with your pipe size.
If you’re installing a shower head with a mounting secure, you’ll also need to make sure that it is designed to fit the specific mounting hardware of your shower. It’s always best to refer to the instructions that come with your shower head before attempting to install a shower head and double check that it is compatible with your existing US shower.
Are shower heads a standard size?
Shower heads typically range in size from 1.5 to 2.5 gallons per minutes of flow, making them a standard size. The standard size can also depend on the type and where the showerhead is installed. Some showerheads are designed for multiple functions, and these may require a larger size than a normal showerhead, as they need to supply a more powerful shower flow.
Additionally, factors such as water pressure and the size of your showerhead can affect the flow rate, so it’s important to choose the right size when you are purchasing the showerhead. On the other hand, it’s also possible to get a custom-sized showerhead to fit your specific needs.
Lastly, it is important to also consider factors such as the cost and installation when considering the size that you want to purchase.
Can you swap any shower head?
Yes, you can swap out any shower head. Before you replace your old shower head, make sure the new one will fit your existing plumbing fixtures. If you are replacing a threaded shower head with a new model, take a look at the threads on the old one and compare them to the threads of the new one.
If you have a hand-held shower head, look for a model that will fit the existing shower arm. Be sure to check the pressure rating of the new shower head to make sure it will work with your current water pressure.
When attaching a new shower head, you may need to use plumber’s tape to ensure a tight seal. Make sure to shut off the water supply before replacing the shower head and turn it back on when you’re done to make sure it’s working properly.
Is it difficult to change a shower head?
Changing a shower head isn’t too difficult, but it really depends on the type of shower head that you have. For example, you may need to buy a wrench in order to detach any screws, or you may need to unscrew some nuts by hand.
It is also important to pay attention to what kind of shower head you are replacing, as some shower heads may have different connections than others. If you have a handheld shower head, for example, you will need to make sure that you purchase the right one and that it is compatible with the current connections of your tub, or you could end up making a mess and end up with water everywhere.
If you’re confident with general plumbing, then you should have no problem, as long as you follow the correct instructions. If you’re not sure, you may want to hire a professional to help, as they will be able to quickly and safely replace the shower head for you.
How do you replace a old shower head?
Replacing an old shower head can be done relatively easily. First, make sure that the power to the shower has been shut off before beginning. If necessary, place a bucket or some towels to catch any excess water that may come out when the old shower head is removed.
If the shower head is held in position with nuts, use an adjustable wrench to loosen them. Carefully remove the shower head and dispose of it. Then, take the new shower head and attach it to the existing plumbing.
If it is a simple screw-on shower head, just screw it on by hand, no tools required. If it requires more force, screw it on as firmly as possible using some plumbers tape to ensure a secure seal. To finish, turn the water back on and turn the shower handle to check for any leaks.
Can you change a fixed shower head to handheld?
Yes, you can change a fixed shower head to a handheld one. This isn’t a difficult process, but it may require a few tools and supplies if you’re doing it yourself. Generally, you will have to unscrew the showerhead from the wall mount, replace it with an adjustable shower arm, then attach the handheld shower head.
You may also need to adjust the water supply to the shower before you mount the new showerhead. To avoid any plumbing issues, it may be best to contact a professional if you are uncertain about the process.
Can I add a handheld shower head to my existing shower head?
Yes, you can add a handheld shower head to your existing shower head. The installation process is fairly straightforward and the supplies are often easy to come by. You’ll need to disconnect your existing shower head and replace it with an adapter that has a male and a female thread.
The female thread will connect to your existing showerhead and the male end will connect to the hand-held showerhead you’d like to add. You’ll also need a hose that runs between the adapter and the hand-held showerhead.
The hose should come with the hand-held showerhead but if not it can likely be purchased separately. Once the hardware is connected, you’ll need to add a wall mounting bracket or a shower arm that will hold and support the hand-held showerhead in the desired location.
After everything is securely connected, you’ll need to turn the water back on and make any necessary adjustments. With proper installation and a few tweaks, you should be able to enjoy your new hand-held showerhead with little hassle.
