Have you ever considered installing a dual shower in your home after having a spa-like shower experience while staying at a hotel?
Well, as fascinating and relaxing as it feels, most people take a step back, thinking it’s going take a toll on your wallet to install these. But hey, we are here to help.
Dual showers are becoming increasingly popular these days, and they come in a variety of forms and styles. And the good news is, with some basic knowledge of plumbing, you can install it by yourself.
So, how to install dual shower heads? Read on to know in detail.
Things You Should Know First
There are various options available while installing double shower heads. For instance, you can have a dual shower system with two heads in one unit, mostly one hand and another fixed, or two fixed heads on opposite walls called a two-person shower.
And the installation is slightly different. So, before going into how to install dual shower heads, here are some queries that might come to your mind.
Can You Run Two Shower Heads on One Valve?
Conventional single shower heads always have a valve to regulate the water temperature and pressure. And you can run the pipe for a second shower from your existing shower head valve. This way, water from a single source or pipe gets divided between the two heads.
However, keep in mind that you can’t adjust different temperatures for each when you run the two shower heads on one valve. So, if you and your partner agree on the same water temperature, there shouldn’t be any problem.
But some professionals wouldn’t recommend you to run pipes for the second one from the existing one. It’s the easiest, though. The problem with this configuration is that there can be a sudden drop or rise of temperature on the second line when you turn it on.
While a sudden splash of slightly hot or cold water is not a big deal for adults, we can’t say the same about kids.
How Do You Hook Up Two Shower Heads?
The installation process depends on which option you want to have in your bathroom.
A single unit with two shower heads installation is pretty straightforward. You just have to remove the old head and replace it with your dual-head unit. This way, you don’t need a professional, just follow the instruction manual thoroughly, and you are good to go.
Another option is a two-person shower system which has two separate heads on the opposite walls. Now, this will take more plumbing work, as you need to run the pipelines for the second head.
While this dual shower system can be a nice addition to your bathroom, you might need a professional to install it properly according to safety regulations and building codes.
However, if you have sufficient knowledge about your home’s plumbing and are confident enough to do it yourself, you are sure to save a great deal of money.
What Size Shower Do I Need For 2 Shower Heads?
A two-person shower system can be an excellent addition to your family bathroom as you and your partner can shower together. It ensures more efficient use of water and saves you from being late for work. Also, showering together at weekends is kind of romantic.
That being said, what should be the shower size? Well, the typical dimension can be 4 feet x 6 feet or 3 feet by 5 feet. There is no standard requirement, though. It depends on your preference and comfort level.
While some consider the 4 feet x 6 feet shower quite big, it’s nice to have some space for movement when two people are showering together.
How to Install Dual Shower Heads?
Most dual showers come with a fixed or rain shower head and handheld spray. The procedure below describes the step-by-step procedure of installing a two head shower system with the same water source or pipe connector.
Remove the Existing Shower Head
Before starting the whole installation process, make sure you turned off the water. You can remove the existing head using your hand or pliers and wrench. Rotate the head anticlockwise to unscrew it. You can hold the arm for support.
If you feel like you can’t remove it with your hands, use pliers or a wrench and grip the connection tightly. You might want to use a cloth to cover the wrench or pliers not to leave any scratches.
Clean the Pipes
After you removed the head, clean the threads of the arm. The new shower head won’t fit if there’s any plumber’s tape left.
Also, water pipes are likely to develop rust over time. And you have to clean out the rust before fitting the new head.
Place the Base Valve
Next, you need to install the rectangular-shaped base valves. This rectangular piece houses the switching valve. It connects to both the shower heads. Also, you need to make sure the shower head is wrapped with plumbing tape so that there’s no leak.
Most of today’s dual shower systems come with either a two-way or three-way diverter valve attached to the main head. You can connect it directly to the arm pipe.
Connect the Fixed Head
Now it’s time to connect the main or the rain shower head. For that, apply plumbing tape over the valve’s thread and connect it to the main head.
Use pliers to tighten the connection, but use a piece of cloth in-between to avoid scratches. The cloth acts as a barrier to protect the finish. Ensure the connection is secure and clean.
Connect the Second Shower
Once the main shower is installed properly, now, it’s time to connect the hand shower. Get the extension rope or hose and connect one end with the valve and the other end with the shower head.
Ensure There’s No Leak
We can’t stress the point enough, but you need to apply the plumbing tape enough to ensure no leaks remain. Also, for every connection, check whether the gasket is in place or not. Without the gasket, the connection is prone to leak.
Once the installation is complete, turn on the water and run a test. If there’s any leak at any connection, tighten it and check again.
How to Deal With the Pressure Loss?
Installing a dual shower system, the biggest concern of most people is the reduction in water pressure. When the two heads are in use simultaneously, loss of pressure is inevitable. So, here’s a few things you need to consider.
Water Source
If the water source of your residence is well, you can install an upgraded well pump to have sufficient pressure in both the shower heads. Alternatively, you can install an overhead tank to keep the flow steady.
Pipe Size
Usually, the pipes shrink from ¾ inches to ½ inches upon entering from your home line to the bathroom line, which significantly reduces the pressure. You can replace the pipes leading to your shower with ¾ inches ones to upgrade the pressure.
Low-Pressure Heads
If you are not too concerned with the water pressure, using a higher GPM rain shower head with low pressure might be a good choice. Also, you will find some heads specifically designed for low pressures that hold the water, concentrate the flow, and builds the pressure.
Wrap Up
Now that you know how to install dual shower heads, you can enjoy the spa-like shower feel at home. And you don’t have to wait for your partner to finish up every morning. Occasional romantic shower together isn’t bad idea either.
And the best part is installation is rather simple. Just follow the instructions properly and enjoy!