You can create a spa-like atmosphere in the bath by installing two shower heads in one shower. They may be operated independently of one another or on the same valve and are often called “his and hers” shower heads.
Showering together between couples is easier with them because one person doesn’t have to stand under hot water while the other is freezing.
In this setup, however, there is a problem of water pressure loss when both showers are on simultaneously.
As long as you can determine the source of the problem, this problem can be solved. It is possible to add a second shower head to an existing shower by following this guide.
Can You Add A Second Shower Head? – Things To Consider
You should discuss this intermediate DIY project with your partner before tackling it. This way, you will know what options you have and whether this task is simple or complex.
You Should Check The Source Of Your Water
Cities in many residential areas supply water. Some communities, however, rely on wells for their water supply. There may not be more than 5 gallons per minute of water coming from a well.
The average showerhead uses about 5 gallons of water each minute. Therefore, in order to install two shower heads, the well would be unable to handle the load.
There will be a loss of pressure since there will only be 2.5 GPM per shower head. Increase the GPM of your water well or add a water storage tank to your home to solve this issue.
Considerations For Water Pressure
If you have two shower heads running simultaneously, you may experience a reduction in water pressure. However, you’ll need to consider a few factors before deciding.
Shower Heads With Low Pressure
When it comes to shower heads, you can choose low water pressure models if you don’t want to worry about water pressure.
This type of head controls the flow of water. The output is slowed and limited. Due to the water building behind it, the pressure does not feel low when using two shower heads simultaneously.
Water From A Well
It is possible that your well cannot accommodate several shower heads at once if you do not have city water. You will need to upgrade your well pump to maintain normal water pressure.
The Thickness Of The Pipe
The pipe’s diameter determines how much water can pass through it per minute, so a smaller pipe can reduce water pressure.
Make Sure Your Internal Plumbing Pipes Are The Right Size
There are many sizes of plumbing pipes. There are different sizes of supply lines for water entering your home.
The pipe typically shrinks to 1/2 inch when it enters your home. This drop in size can reduce water volume and pressure by as much as 75 percent.
In addition, your shower head will receive more pressure if you upgrade the pipes leading to the bathroom to 3/4 inch. In addition to upgrading the shower valves, you will also need to upgrade the supply line to 3/4-inch.
A Dual Shower Head Versus A Second Shower Head
First, you need to determine what type of second shower head you want. In this case, you have two options: There are two shower heads in a dual showerhead unit: one installation, one water fixture, and one shower unit.
You can install a second shower head completely separate from your in-wall head, such as an overhead rainfall model. A well-reviewed rain shower unit and a new water line run to your shower’s ceiling must be purchased.
The dual shower head may be faster and easier to install than the second unit, but it’s probably not quite as nice. Again, making an informed decision before starting a project is the key to success.
Two Valves With Separate Heads
The second shower head can also be controlled by a separate shower valve, for example, by adding a shower panel. The second shower valve will allow you to adjust each shower head’s temperature to match the heat preference of whoever is using it.
When you control your shower head, you can make it warmer or cooler according to your partner’s preference. In this case, you will probably want to hire a professional unless you are well acquainted with plumbing lines.
If you’d like to go the simpler route, go with the DIY dual shower head. In this way, you can add in a second water line valve, additional pipes, and an additional shower head hook-up without having to hire a professional.
One Valve With Two Heads
The same valves can be used for both shower heads. In other words, you both agree on one temperature. Two shower heads will split the water as well. Regarding water pressure, you may need to consider some options below.
Using a single shower valve will be okay if you agree on the same temperature in the mornings. The showerhead can also be added to a bathtub if you prefer.
Shower Heads With Low Pressure
There are many types and sizes of shower heads available. Shower heads are measured by their GPM. Shower heads designed to simulate rain, such as rain-style shower heads, use up to 10 GPM but have very low water pressure.
Due to their smaller internal size, other shower heads have much lower GPMs and can operate at higher pressures. Low-pressure shower heads are also available. A small reservoir holds the water while pressure builds up, so the water flows more efficiently.
Shower Valve Types
A pressure balance valve and a thermostatic valve are two types of shower valves. A pressure balance system is most likely if the same valve controls both shower heads.
If both shower heads are not needed at the same time, the valve will try to maintain an even pressure across both heads, which may result in a loss of pressure. Every shower head is controlled separately by a thermostatic valve.
By adjusting the volume and pressure of each shower head, you can adjust the amount of water coming out. In addition, you can turn off one shower head when not in use to increase pressure on the remaining ones.
How to Install Two Shower Heads In Your Shower?
The process sounds similar to installing dual shower heads, but it’s not. Instead, there are multiple units when you install two shower heads.
With this option, you can mount the best rain effect shower unit above you and use a handheld shower head as a second option. Installation won’t require cutting into the ceiling or more money for a plumber.
If you want to make your rainfall shower head even more effective, consider purchasing and installing a longer shower arm. Then, you can experience rainfall shower heads closer to the center without running pipes to the ceiling.
To ensure that your rainfall shower does not interfere with the shower wand, you will also want to install a shower wand holder on your shower wall.
Drilling into your tile may seem complicated, but it is surprisingly easy with the right tools. Additionally, it provides a better hold than a suction cup holder.
The following instructions will guide you through the installation of a wall-mounted hand shower bracket like this one:
- Locate the stud outline on your tile with a stud finder and mark it with a pencil.
- Set your drill to a slow speed and use a tile and glass drill bit. The tile will not crack if you go slower.
- Place the screw or screws in the holder by lining up and marking the spot with a pencil.
- Screw holes are made into the wall by drilling deep enough to penetrate the tile and just barely hit the wood studs behind.
- Any debris that fell to the floor during drilling should be cleaned up with a tile mop. Invest in a certified bathroom cleaner or make one from scratch using natural ingredients.
- Once you have placed the holder in the predrilled holes, it is time to insert the screws.
- Cover the screws with decorative plates by tightening and sliding them up.
- Suction cup holders are a good alternative if you want a less invasive holder. Suction cups should last for a few months before slipping or coming off.
- Put the suction cup back on the tile and wet the back again. Don’t place it too close to the edge. Suction strength will be affected by the concave shape of the tile around grout seams.
How to Install Dual Shower Heads?
The dual shower head in this guide describes a shower head with two heads connected at the same pipe connector. In this case, you can use both the head and handheld at the same time.
Dual shower heads have a built-in valve that lets you choose whether to use one or both at once.
- Turn off the water first. Then, using pliers and a wrench, turn on the head and remove the existing shower head.
- After you remove the old shower head, clean the threads on the arm of the new shower head by removing any leftover plumber’s tape.
- The pipe should be cleaned of any rust that has developed.
- Install the base valve first. There is a rectangular piece that connects both to the main head and the removable shower head. The switching valve is also located here.
- To prevent leaks, wrap new plumbing tape around the shower arm’s connecting threads.
- Add the main shower head after wrapping the valve’s threads in the plumber’s tape.
- Use pliers to tighten it on and cloth as a scratch-resistant barrier while tightening it on. Before proceeding, check that everything is clean.
- Lastly, screw the extending rope pipe into the second mobile shower head and then secure the wand shower head to it.
- Tape every connecting thread you come across with a good amount of plumber’s tape.
- Ensure no leaks are in your shower heads by turning on the water and testing them out.
- Re-tighten the pipe if leaks occur by removing the troublesome area, adding more plumber’s tape, and re-tightening the pipe.
Dual Shower Head Or Second Shower Head: Which Works Better?
Dual shower systems use one water valve for both shower heads. The second showerhead, however, is installed with a separate water valve.
There is no need to install a second showerhead when installing a dual shower system. However, you will have better control over your shower if you use a second showerhead.
Installing a second showerhead allows you to control the force of the two shower heads separately.
Dual showerheads, on the other hand, have only one control to operate both showerheads. You can even set different temperatures for the two shower heads in a second shower head system.
What Is The Cost Of Adding A Second Showerhead?
It costs about $890 to $5,000 on average to install a freestanding double shower in a U.S. home.
However, costs can vary depending on the shower head, flooring, and wall materials used, the type of glass used and the size of the shower itself.
The cost of this project can vary widely based on the type of shower heads you choose to install, materials for floors and walls, type of glass, and overall size of the shower.
If you are replacing an old shower or tub with a new double shower or converting an existing shower into a double shower, the costs can also change.
I recommend getting estimates from three to four professionals to find the best price for your budget.
Is It Possible To Add A Second Shower Head On Your Own?
Installing a second shower head in the bathroom can be easy and difficult. To install the second shower, holes must be made in the shower wall.
Putting in a second showerhead on your own may be a mistake if you miscalculate the hole’s position or damage the wall while drilling it.
Additionally, the entry point and the shower faucet water pressure must be calculated. An experienced professional can easily determine whether a second showerhead requires reinstalling the water pipes.
Final Words
Whether you use the two-headed shower alone or with someone else doesn’t matter. However, with a second showerhead in your bathroom, taking a shower will be more fun.
Paying attention to your shower is a good practice. It prevents illness for the body and ensures calm for the mind when you take a good shower. Now you know how to add a second shower head to an existing shower.
