Investing in a new shower head won’t just improve your water flow, but it ought to make your entire shower experience better. How come? More often than not, high pressure shower heads offer a range of modes for you to decide between when you are showering, so that you can enjoy rainfall mode to wake you up in the morning, or a light mist to help you wind down for bed. This also ensures your shower is suitable for everyone, from yourself to your kids and even pets who loathe shower time.
- 1 What to Look for When Choosing the Best High-Pressure Shower Head
- 2 How We Tested the Best High-Pressure Shower Heads
- 3 CAN A SHOWER HEAD INCREASE WATER PRESSURE?
- 4 HOW DO YOU INCREASE WATER FLOW IN A SHOWER HEAD?
- 5 How to Clean a Rain Shower Head
- 6 The Advantages of Owning a High-Pressure Shower Head
- 7 What is a good water pressure for a shower?
- 8 Are there shower heads that increase water pressure?
- 9 How do high-pressure shower heads work?
- 10 What is the highest pressure for a shower head?
- 11 Is a high pressure shower better?
- 12 Is it OK to remove flow restrictor from shower head?
- 13 How much pressure is good for shower?
The huge variety of high-pressure shower heads of all types on the market can be confusing for someone who’s trying to identify the right shower head for their bathroom. If this is you, you just found Captain Save the Day, because we’re here to help you find the best high-pressure shower heads. This review is informative whether you want the same shower head in all your bathrooms or prefer a more eclectic look across your bathrooms.
The 9 Best High Pressure Shower Heads of 2023：Our Top Picks
| Editor’s Choice | Waterpik High Pressure Handheld Wand |
| BEST OVERALL | Speakman |
| RUNNER-UP | KOHLER K-72419-CP Awaken G110 |
| Premium Pick | Speakman S-2251 Signature Icon Anystream |
| BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK | Waterpik Original Massage Shower Head Handheld Spray |
| BEST HANDHELD SHOWER HEAD | Moen Engage Magnetix Spot Resist |
| Best high pressure rain shower head | AquaDance 28″ Drill-Free Stainless Steel Slide Bar Combo Rain Showerhead |
| BEST DUAL SHOWER HEAD | Delta Faucet 5-Spray In2ition |
| MOST EFFICIENT | High Sierra’s All Metal 1.5 GPM |
We tested a host of different models with various designs and spray options to help in the hunt for the best high-pressure shower head. Read on to learn more about choosing the best high-pressure shower heads and read our reviews to find the product that best suits your style and budget.
1.Editor’s Choice：Waterpik High Pressure Handheld Wand
What We Like
- Sturdy metal construction
- Adjustable
- Powerful flow
- 3-way diverter
- 7 spray settings
- Long shower hose
- Limited lifetime warranty
What We Don’t Like
- Too high for shorter people
The Waterpik High-Pressure Hand-Held Wand and Rain Shower Head Combo is designed to easily and conveniently cater to your entire body, with 7 spray settings for the hair and body. It’s constructed from metal and given a moisture-protected chrome finishing.
This 6-inch diameter, 1.8 GPM high-pressure shower head uses the patented PowerComb Stream to deliver a powerful and targeted water stream that is especially crucial when washing hair. The high-pressure flow effectively rinses out hair product and leaves the hair manageable. It’s also equipped with the PowerPulse Massage spray, which delivers 2 times the shower massage force of the average US shower head.
While you can tilt the shower head to adjust the spray angle, this only lowers the height by about 4 inches, which for short people isn’t much. If you find the shower head to be too high even after you’ve adjusted the height, you may have to resort to using the hand wand to focus the water on specific spots on the body. It’s also possible to turn on both the shower head and hand wand at the same time, thanks to the 3-way diverter with bracket. An 8-foot metal shower hose makes it possible for you to enjoy your shower even when you’re not directly under the shower head and direct the water to different parts of your body.
2.BEST OVERALL：Speakman
What We Like
- Multiple finishes to choose from
- Available in three flow rates
- Easy to clean and maintain
What We Don’t Like
- Spray coverage somewhat narrow
This Speakman Hotel Anystream High Pressure Shower Head is a high-quality choice for new construction or as a replacement wall-mounted shower head. This premium high-flow shower head’s clean lines and sleek, simple design will enhance and complement any modern bathroom. Those who travel often might recognize this particular brand and perhaps even this particular model from hotels; it’s a delight for weary travelers to see a Speakman shower head, as it’s a sure sign of good water pressure.
Speakman’s patented Anystream system evenly distributes water as it smoothly transitions through intense, massage, and combination settings. Our testing found that the ring to adjust the various settings moved easily, but not so easily that the shower head can slip from one setting to another without the user adjusting the setting.
A proprietary plunger system controls the spread of water as it leaves the nozzle, allowing pressure to build and intensify. The plungers are self-cleaning, resisting hard-water buildup and sediment and making the shower head easy to maintain. Installation is as easy as it gets: Simply remove the old shower head and screw this one into place without the use of tools.
3.RUNNER-UP：KOHLER K-72419-CP Awaken G110
What We Like
- Sleek modern design
- Wider spray coverage
- Simple to switch between sprays
What We Don’t Like
- May not fit piping in older homes
From Kohler, this multifunctional shower head offers plenty of options for a customized look and feel in a contemporary design. An advanced spray engine increases low water pressure for a more pleasant shower, and the fixture provides three spray choices controlled by a simple thumb tab. There is a low-pressure option, and the Kohler can comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) specifications.
Though this shower head feels surprisingly light out of the box, it packs a mighty pressure punch. It installs quite easily, and its spray options are indeed unique. The wide coverage spray is excellent for general use, while the intense drenching spray is forceful (ideal for rinsing out shampoo). The focused, targeted stream can massage sore muscles—a welcome relief that definitely delivers on what a high pressure shower head is all about.
4.Premium Pick：Speakman S-2251 Signature Icon Anystream
What We Like
- Solid brass construction
- Corrosion-resistant finish
- Adjustable
- Built-in self-clean plungers
- Wide spray diameter
- 64 spray channels
- Lifetime limited warranty
What We Don’t Like
- Expensive
The Speakman S-2251 uses the adjustable, patented Anystream system to transition through the supported spray settings, distributing water evenly and delivering each stream at its intended pressure. The shower head supports 3 main spray patterns: Rain, Intense, and Flood. While it does not have a massage setting, the flow rate on all 3 streams is excellent, with the Flood spray in particular delivering a waterfall-like experience. To switch between streams, rotate the handle on the side of the shower head in any direction. With a total of 64 spray channels, this is a shower head that will deliver a unique shower experience every time you turn it on.
It rotates at 360 degrees, which in addition to allowing customization, also enables the shower head to self-clean for enhanced performance. It also comes with 8 built-in self-clean plungers that prevent the accumulation of hard-water build-up and sediment. In this way, it helps keep the shower head clean and boosts its lifespan. The plungers are designed to optimize water pressure. They do this by controlling the spread of water as it leaves the shower head, which allows the pressure to build and intensify.
The shower head is made from durable solid brass and given a corrosion-free, polished chrome finish. Its contemporary design is stylish and a fitting accessory for any modern bathroom. It comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
5.BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK：Waterpik Original Massage Shower Head Handheld Spray
What We Like
- Easy to customize settings
- Very wide spray area
- Pulsating and slow massage functions
What We Don’t Like
- Frustrating packaging
- Sits high on the base
The affordable Waterpik Hand Held Shower Head is WaterSense Certified for demonstrated water savings and shower performance. It features a 5-foot-long shower hose to provide plenty of range for bathing kids and pets while making cleaning the shower easier. Four spray modes include full-body coverage, strong pulsating massage, gentle massage, and full body with massage combo.
There is no click when turning the dial to change settings, so it’s possible to set them “in between” for even more customizable options.
The packaging, unfortunately, was frustrating to open; do so carefully in case returning the product becomes necessary. We found the shower head to feel very light and were concerned at first by a rattling we heard upon taking it from the box. That sound is due to a small part inside that creates the pulsing sensation of one of the settings and is not a defect. The tubing also requires some time to loosen up, as it is very stiff out of the package.
6.BEST HANDHELD SHOWER HEAD:Moen Engage Magnetix Spot Resist
What We Like
- Magnetic docking system
- Easy to install
- Multiple jet options
What We Don’t Like
- Water pressure can vary
Moen’s handheld shower head offers freedom and flexibility. The base features a magnetic docking system that allows the business end to be quickly detached for handheld use. When done using, simply put it back into the dock and let the magnet snap it into place. The magnet holds firmly, so a bit of force is needed to pull the shower head from the mooring, but once in hand the weight feels balanced and comfortable—even when slippery, it’s easy to hold on to.
A 5-foot interlocking spiral metal water supply hose provides ample reach. The 3.5-inch- diameter spray head features six unique spray functions to provide a customized shower experience and optimal force. Our testing found that the shower head offered everything from a gentle rain shower, perfect for bathing small children, to a high-pressure stream that leaves adults feeling squeaky clean and refreshed. The Moen complies with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) specifications and boasts WaterSense certification.
7.Best high pressure rain shower head:AquaDance 28″ Drill-Free Stainless Steel Slide Bar Combo Rain Showerhead
What We Like
- 7-inch diameter
- 3-way diverter
- Long stainless steel shower hose
- Easy installation
- Limited lifetime warranty
What We Don’t Like
- Plastic construction
- Flow restrictors in shower heads and shower bar
With a 7-inch diameter, the AquaDance Combo Rain Showerhead provides wide coverage. It’s made from hardy ABS, with a strong, corrosion-free 5-foot stainless steel hose providing flexibility and greater reach.
You can switch between the shower head and the hand-held shower head with ease. Alternatively, you can have both running at the same time. There is a 3-way diverter that allows for this. The water pressure decreases significantly when you turn on the diverter and use both shower heads. That is expected, but the difference is rather big in this model. On the brighter side, the diverter is conveniently located at the bottom of the slide bar and turns easily, so easy to use.
Overall, the pressure isn’t all that great in this shower head, and while this could be pinned on the quality of the shower head, it may also have to do with the additional flow restrictor installed in the shower bar (there are two more in both the main and handheld showers). Thankfully, it can be removed. And if you’re lucky to read this before or just after your purchase, you’ll arrest the problem before experiencing it.
While the general construction of the shower head appears to be solid enough, be warned that there are plenty of plastic parts. Some, like the disks that hold the hand-held shower to the wall, are rather large and unsightly.
8.BEST DUAL SHOWER HEAD:Delta Faucet 5-Spray In2ition
What We Like
- Huge diameter for wide coverage
- Durable materials
- Silicone nozzles clean easily
What We Don’t Like
- Pricey
- Water pressure can vary
A handheld and an overhead all in one, this Delta Faucet model can be used in two basic ways—yet five spray choices make for a luxurious customized shower. The shower head can be securely docked overhead or easily detached for handheld use with a separate hose. A powerful magnet holds the shower head precisely for easy docking, even if the bather’s eyes are closed. The flexible, high-quality hose bends easily, the lever for changing settings moves smoothly, and installation of the unit is a breeze.
Delta Faucet’s 5-Spray H2Okinetic In2ition Dual Shower provides three times more coverage than a standard shower head with a unique wave pattern and larger water droplets. This WaterSense-certified shower system offers four different spray settings plus a pause function, which saves water by temporarily reducing flow to a trickle while lathering or shaving. The spray settings glide rather than click for a more customizable shower experience.
8.MOST EFFICIENT:High Sierra’s All Metal 1.5 GPM
What We Like
- Very simple to install
- Straightforward shower head
- Affordable price
What We Don’t Like
- Only one setting
- Water pressure can feel low
Those looking for the best shower experience from the least amount of water should check out the High Sierra 1.5 GPM Low Flow Shower Head. Aside from coming in a host of finishes, there are no bells and whistles with this model. It is a simple shower head with a strong, high-pressure spray even while maintaining a low-flow rate of 1.5 GPM.
With its solid metal construction and clog-free nozzle, it’s one of the most rugged, dependable low-flow shower heads available. The patented nozzle delivers a robust and full spray of large water drops for a powerful experience and minimal water usage. Installation is a snap—no surprise, considering the simplicity. The only caveat: The shower head has a small range of movement, but the spray can be angled down or up slightly to suit the height of the user.
9.MOST UNIQUE OPTION：AquaDance 7″ Premium High Pressure 3-Way Rainfall Combo
What We Like
- Two shower heads for better coverage
- Easy to install with no tools
- Six settings on each for personalized experience
What We Don’t Like
- Lower pressure when using both shower heads
- Sits high on the bracket; not good for low ceilings
- Poor-quality Teflon tape included
The AquaDance high-pressure shower head is actually two shower heads; they can be used together for a fully immersive experience or separately for a more traditional shower. The larger shower head is 7 inches in diameter, providing a wide spray area, while the 4-inch shower head is a handheld wand with a 5-foot hose that allows for more ease in rinsing. Each shower head has six settings, so when using them together, it’s possible to combine settings for a truly personalized experience.
The click-lever dial is easy to move, even with slippery fingers. Our testing found that the water pressure dropped a bit when both shower heads were running, as might be expected when the same amount of water is being forced through more space. Two caveats: Those with low bathroom ceilings might have trouble with installation for this one, as the handheld wand sits higher than the larger shower head. Plus, though installation is simple and toolless, the shower heads come with cheap Teflon tape. To prevent leaks, we recommend buying quality tape separately for installation.
What to Look for When Choosing the Best High-Pressure Shower Head
There are several functional elements and design features to consider when shopping for a high-pressure shower head. Flow rate is the most important technical concern. In addition to aesthetic choices like appearance and finish, look for features such as spray patterns, energy-saving benefits, and other options. The following are the criteria we considered in making the picks in this lineup.
Design
There are four basic high-pressure shower head designs: wall-mounted, handheld, rain shower head, and three-way. The model that works best for you will depend on bathroom size and layout, along with personal preference.
- A wall-mounted shower head is fixed in place and may feature an adjustable spray pattern. They come in a standard size as well as larger models.
- A rain shower head is a large, fixed overhead shower head with a much broader coverage area and a sensory experience comparable to being out in a rain shower. The best high-pressure rain shower head gives a powerful, immersive shower experience.
- A handheld shower head connects to the water supply with a flexible hose. This simplifies tasks such as bathing young children, washing the dog, and cleaning the surrounding shower area. Doctors often recommend them for patients after surgeries that impair movement. A handheld shower head paired with a wall-mounted option is often called a dual shower head.
- A three-way shower head includes both fixed and handheld shower heads, with a three-way diverter that allows the user to choose one or the other, or both at the same time.
Finish
The finish on a shower head is a purely aesthetic choice, and options are surprisingly diverse, from shiny chrome to warm brass to trendy black matte. Finishes offer many opportunities to customize the look of the shower along with the rest of the bathroom. For cohesion, the shower head should complement (if not exactly match) other bathroom hardware: the sink faucet, toilet flush lever, drawer pulls, towel racks, etc.
The materials and application methods used in chrome, polished brass, brushed nickel, and stainless finishes make them top choices for durability. Chrome is the most popular shower head finish by far, while polished brass is its golden-hued counterpart. These shiny finishes give a clean and classic look, but they also highlight every soap spot. Matte finishes like brushed nickel and stainless offer the same durability as chrome but resist spotting.
Spray Patterns
A high-pressure shower head provides plenty of force, but the spray pattern determines the comfort. Most shower heads have adjustable spray patterns, with some offering eight or more options. Choose from a pulsating massage, a powerful stream, a gentle mist, a soaking rain, or a combination pattern. To satisfy the whole family, consider buying a shower head with high pressure and plenty of spray pattern options.
Flow Rate
Flow rate, shown in gallons per minute (GPM), measures how much water flows through a shower head. Most standard shower heads are rated around 2.0 GPM, with the maximum flow rate being 2.5 GPM. These high-flow rate shower heads deliver 2.5 gallons of water each minute, or 25 gallons of water during a 10-minute shower.
Energy-Saving Certification
Governments regulate showerhead flow rates to help conserve water and energy. Water-saving shower heads that earn the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) WaterSense label use no more than 2 GPM while providing a shower that is equal to or better than standard shower heads on the market. EPA estimates that replacing a conventional shower head with a low-flow WaterSense shower head can save nearly 3,000 gallons of water each year. (An incredible savings, considering that showering accounts for approximately 17 percent of home water use.)
When shopping for an efficient shower head, don’t just take the manufacturer’s word for it; look for the WaterSense label. EPA-certified WaterSense shower heads have been tested and approved for their ability to save water and energy.
Optional Features
Many modern shower heads come with unique features that enhance safety, comfort, and convenience: think lights, sound, and smart technology.
LED lights can simply brighten a dimly lit shower, but a model with colorful—or even color-changing—LED lights turns the shower into a magical oasis. Some shower heads include a Bluetooth speaker to listen to music or to keep up with a favorite podcast. Other options available are smart shower heads that turn on automatically, control water temperature, track water usage, play tunes, and answer incoming phone calls.
How We Tested the Best High-Pressure Shower Heads
We tested the best high-pressure shower heads with hands-on trials, guided by a rubric that helped us keep the process fair and as objective as possible. We looked at the gallons per minute, the ease of installation and use, how suitable they were for the high-pressure needs in a typical shower, and how well they held up over time. We also checked out the little things that matter, such as the length of hose if the shower head was handheld, or the ease of removing the product from its packaging. We also took note of how the water streams felt on the skin—was the shower head truly high pressure? The results were calculated on our rubric and compiled to present the lineup seen here.
CAN A SHOWER HEAD INCREASE WATER PRESSURE?
Yes, that’s part of the high pressure shower head’s charm. A little confusingly, these can be called high pressure shower heads or a low pressure shower heads. The both mean the same thing just phrased differently. Suited to homes with low water pressure (hence the name), they push the water out at high pressure, compensating for the low water pressure in your home.
HOW DO YOU INCREASE WATER FLOW IN A SHOWER HEAD?
Another reason your water flow might be weak through your shower head could be the fact it needs to be cleaned. Don’t miss our guide on how to clean a shower head for help with this.
What else? If your shower itself offers more than one setting, try your shower on different settings with your new shower head. Switch your shower setting and switch between your shower head modes until you find one you like.
You might also find that water flow improves based on how high or low your shower is sitting on your wall. This isn’t applicable to wall-mounted shower heads as these can be a pain to move, but standalone options might perform better placed higher towards your ceiling. Give it a try!
Failing that, call in a plumber who will either advise to update the system feeding water to your shower, or boosting the pressure with an electric pump. This can be pricey, so you may as well try a shower head designed for low pressure first to see if that improves things.
How to Clean a Rain Shower Head
Rain shower heads running hard water can have mineral buildup or other buildups that will block the water flow. It’s essential to clean a rain shower head regularly. Waiting until all the water holes are blocked may lead to permanent damage.
If your rain shower head has a screw-on connection, twist it to unscrew and remove the rain shower head. Place the head in a basin of white distilled vinegar.
Make sure it covers the entire head. Pour in 2 heaping tablespoons of baking soda and let it fizz. Leave the head in for an hour. Remove the rain shower head, rinse with water, and use an old toothbrush to scrub any remaining mineral buildup.
Attach the rain shower head and run the water to flush out any remaining vinegar solution.
Use this method if your rain shower heads that do not screw off. Add white vinegar, halfway up, in a large plastic bag or garbage bag, depending on your shower head’s size.
Pour in 2 heaping tablespoons of baking soda and immediately slip it over the rain shower head. Tie it around the top arm with string or a large twist tie and be sure it’s tight. Have the tie ready before you make the mixture.
The rain shower head should be submerged. Let it hang for an hour and then take it off. Turn on the water to the rain shower head to wash out the vinegar solution. If there is residue left, use an old toothbrush to scrub off the remaining mineral buildup.
The Advantages of Owning a High-Pressure Shower Head
High-pressure shower heads offer an improved showering experience over conventional models. These powerful shower heads decrease the water flow rate while increasing water pressure by employing variable spray patterns or compression-chamber engineering. The increased pressure feels invigorating and cleans efficiently, while the decreased flow rate saves water. This is especially helpful in places where household water pressure is lacking.
High-pressure shower heads use about one-fifth less water compared to their conventional counterparts. Because they use less water, there is not as much water to heat, so they save on energy consumption, too. Water and power savings translate to money saved every month after switching to a high-pressure shower head.
- Reduce water and energy bills.
- Conserve water.
- Upgrade the showering experience in homes with low water pressure.
Rain Shower Head Pros and Cons
After a long workday, there’s nothing as soothing as a long, hot shower. Rain shower heads make that shower even more relaxing and refreshing. Discover the many pros to installing a rain shower head.
Pros:
- Complete body coverage – Provides much more water coverage without a need to adjust the shower head
- Easy to clean – The rubber nozzles are anti-clog and can be wiped to clean.
- Easy to install – As simple as replacing a standard shower head (wall-mounted version)
- Spa-like feel – Provides the experience of standing in a warm rain shower
- Relaxing water flow – The water flows gently and smoothly
- Hands-free showering
- Advanced features – Come with many options and features
- Stylish and attractive
- Water saving features – Many have adjustable settings to control the flow of water.
Cons:
- Rain shower heads are quickly taking the top spot for shower heads purchased by homeowners and are a popular choice. There are some downsides, though.
- Cost – Can be more expensive than a regular shower head
- Needs high ceiling – Must have enough ceiling clearance to fit a tall person
- Can have low water pressure – Possible low water pressure based on design and type
- Must be installed at a 90 degree angle – This can make them hard to install in a rental apartment or attic bathroom.
How to install a high-pressure shower head
If replacing an old shower head, remove the old one and wipe the arm to remove any dirt.
Tape the shower arm threads with Teflon tape (included with most shower heads) to protect the threads against damage.
Insert the new shower head onto the arm and gently twist clockwise to tighten.
Turn on the water to check for leaks and adjust if need be.
If not satisfied with the pressure, remove the flow restrictor.
Best Shower Heads 2022
What is a good water pressure for a shower?
Standard residential water pressure in the United States is between 45 and 55 pounds per square inch (psi). Lower water pressure can be increased by installing a high-pressure shower head.
Are there shower heads that increase water pressure?
Yes. High-pressure shower heads increase water pressure either by decreasing the flow rate or using a compression chamber.
How do high-pressure shower heads work?
High-pressure shower heads restrict the volume of water flowing through the pipe, like when a gardener sticks a thumb partly over the end of a trickling garden hose to make it spray farther. Inside the shower head, there are components to regulate the high pressure water flow and provide an even shower.
What is the highest pressure for a shower head?
National standard – 2.5 gpm
If the state, county or city of residency does not specify a maximum flow rates for shower heads, a 2.5 gpm shower head is the maximum one can get. This includes all type of shower heads like hand-held shower, wall mount shower head, shower head systems, and rain showers.
Is a high pressure shower better?
Many people prefer a shower experience that delivers high levels of water pressure, especially if they opt for high end heads that include a massage setting. The advantages of using high pressure shower heads are as follows: You get a better experience if you prefer a strong water flow.
Is it OK to remove flow restrictor from shower head?
While it is possible to remove flow restrictors from shower heads, we strongly advise against it for several reasons. Flow restrictors for faucets are an integral part of most aerators and it is generally not possible or desirable to remove them.
How much pressure is good for shower?
If your water pressure seems low, the first step should be to test how much pressure you’re actually getting from the shower head. A typical home’s water pressure should be somewhere between 45 to 55 psi (pounds per square inch).