If you’re tired of dealing with the negative effects of hard water on your skin and hair, it may be time to consider investing in a water softener showerhead. These innovative showerheads are designed not only to improve your shower experience but also to help preserve the health of your hair and skin by filtering out hard water minerals.
As tap water can be hard and contain high levels of chlorine and minerals, water softener shower heads are a popular choice to improve water quality and shower experience. Click here to see our top shower head picks for 2023 or read on to learn more.
Benefits of Using a Water Softener Shower Head
Water softener shower heads provide various advantages beyond enjoying a refreshing shower. They’re designed to remove hardness-causing minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, from the water, giving you softer water for an improved shower experience.
1. Healthier skin and hair
Soft water is gentle on your skin and hair. It can help prevent dryness and itchiness caused by hard water and doesn’t strip away natural oils. Your hair will feel smoother and skin will be less prone to irritation.
2. Reduced soap scum and mineral buildup
Soft water doesn’t leave behind soap scum or scaling on your shower surfaces. This means your shower will stay cleaner for longer and require less maintenance, saving you time and effort in cleaning.
3. Enhanced soap lather
Soft water allows soap to lather more effectively, which means you’ll need to use less soap, shampoo, and conditioner. This can save you money while also being environmentally friendly.
4. Prevents clogged showerheads
By removing minerals from the water, water softener shower heads prevent scale buildup inside the showerhead. This helps maintain a steady water flow and avoids the need for frequent replacements due to clogging.
5. Easy installation
Most water softener shower heads can be easily attached to your existing shower setup. This makes it a convenient and cost-effective solution for those seeking the benefits of soft water without having to invest in a whole-house water softening system.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Water Softener Shower Head
When selecting a water softener shower head, there are several factors that you should consider to ensure you choose the right one for your needs. In this section, we explore some of the most important aspects to think about before making a decision.
Types of Shower Water Softeners
First, it’s essential to understand the types of shower water softeners available in the market. There are three forms of showerhead filters: inline filters, showerhead replacement filters, and combination units. Each type has its advantages – your choice will depend on your preferences and budget.
Level of Hardness Reduction
Another critical factor to consider is the level of hardness reduction that the showerhead can provide. A high-quality water softener shower filter should be capable of effectively removing calcium and magnesium from your water. Make sure to check the specifications of the product to determine its effectiveness in addressing hard water issues. Harder water mean you need to change the filter more often.
Installation
Opt for a water softener shower head that is easy to install and requires minimal maintenance. Some models can be simply screwed on to your existing shower arm, while others might need professional installation.
Filter Life
Consider the lifespan of the filter cartridge and how often it needs to be replaced. This will have an impact on the long-term cost of using the showerhead.
Design and Functionality
Look for a model that complements your bathroom design and offers additional features like adjustable spray settings and water-saving options
How to Install a Water Softener Shower Head
Installing a water softener shower head is a simple and straightforward process. Here are the basic steps to help you get started:
- First, remove your existing shower head by turning it counterclockwise. It should come off easily without any additional tools. If it’s a bit tight, you may need to use an adjustable wrench to unscrew it.
- Next, clean the shower arm threads with a clean cloth or a brush to remove any debris or build-up from the old shower head. This will ensure a secure and leak-free connection for your new water softener shower head.
- Now, wrap the shower arm threads with Teflon tape to create a watertight seal. Make sure to wrap the tape in a clockwise direction, covering all the threads without overlapping.
- After that, attach your new water softener shower head to the shower arm by turning it clockwise until it is securely in place. It is advised to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any specific guidelines or recommendations for your chosen shower head.
- Once the shower head is in place, turn on the water and check for any leaks around the connection. If necessary, tighten the shower head further or reapply Teflon tape to fix the issue. Be cautious not to overtighten, as it may cause damage to the shower head or shower arm.
There you have it! With a few simple steps, your new water softener shower head is ready for use. Remember to replace the filter as per the manufacturer’s recommended timeline for optimal performance and water quality.
Maintenance Tips
Proper maintenance of your water softener shower head can keep it working efficiently and prolong its lifespan. By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your water softener shower head continues providing you with soft and clean water for a better shower experience.
Regular Cleaning
Over time, minerals and debris can build up on the shower head, restricting water flow and decreasing the effectiveness of the softener. To clean the shower head, remove it from the hose and soak it in a solution of vinegar and water for a few hours, then scrub it gently with a soft brush to remove any mineral buildup. For a convenient cleaning method without removing the shower head, check out this simple guide.
Replacing the Filter
Water softener shower heads use filters to soften water, and these filters need to be replaced periodically. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for filter replacement, which can vary based on the specific shower head model and your water usage. This will ensure optimal performance and prolong the life of your shower head.
Inspecting for Leaks
Check for any signs of water leakage around the connections and seals of your water softener shower head. If you find any leaks, tighten the connections or replace any damaged parts to prevent water waste and potential damage.
Monitor Water Quality
To ensure that your water softener shower head is working effectively, you can occasionally test your shower water’s hardness level. If you notice an increase in the hardness level, it might be time for filter replacement or other maintenance tasks.
Best Water Softener Shower Heads for 2023
If this sounds like the solution you are looking for, see our top picks for water softener shower heads in 2023 here.
- Benefits of Using a Water Softener Shower Head
- 1. Healthier skin and hair
- 2. Reduced soap scum and mineral buildup
- 3. Enhanced soap lather
- 4. Prevents clogged showerheads
- 5. Easy installation
- Factors to Consider When Buying a Water Softener Shower Head
- Types of Shower Water Softeners
- Level of Hardness Reduction
- Installation
- Filter Life
- Design and Functionality
- How to Install a Water Softener Shower Head
- Maintenance Tips
- Best Water Softener Shower Heads for 2023