Wall Shower Heads Buying Guide
A wall shower head is a shower rose on an arm fixed to the wall, with no ceiling fittings and no hose. This collection holds wall arm and rose sets from Phoenix, Fienza, Caroma and Clark, from the Phoenix Vivid and Lexi sets to high-rise designs such as the Phoenix Ormond, Oxley and Nuage, plus exposed heritage sets like the Phoenix Nostalgia. Most come with the head and arm in one box.
What types of wall shower head are there?
There are four main types. A fixed set holds the head in one position for a clean look, such as the Clark Round Basic fixed shower. An adjustable set lets you tilt the head for different users or to reduce splash, such as the Clark Round Basic adjustable shower. A high-rise set curves upward to lift the head higher, like the Phoenix Ormond high-rise arm and rose. An exposed set, like the Phoenix Nostalgia, runs the pipework on the wall for a traditional bathroom.
What size shower head should I choose?
Wall shower heads in this range run from compact roses, such as the 155mm Phoenix Vivid Slimline, to 200mm and 230mm heads like the Phoenix Lexi 200mm square and Phoenix Vivid 230mm round. A smaller head gives a more focused spray and works well on lower water pressure. A larger head gives a softer, wider spray but needs more pressure and a roomier shower.
Is a high-rise shower arm better?
A high-rise arm suits taller users and showers where the wall outlet is lower than you would like. It lifts the head higher and brings it further from the wall, so the water falls more vertically for a rain-like feel. A straight arm suits a standard outlet height and a compact shower.
Will a wall shower head fit my existing outlet?
Usually, yes. Most wall arm and rose sets connect to a standard 1/2 inch wall outlet, so they can replace an old shower head without changing the plumbing. Check the outlet height: a standard arm suits most outlets, while a high-rise set makes up for an outlet that sits low. Moving the outlet is a job for a licensed plumber.
Round or square: which shape suits my bathroom?
Match the shape of the shower head to your mixer and other tapware. Round sets, such as the Phoenix Vivid and Cromford, suit soft, curved fittings. Square sets, such as the Phoenix Lexi with a 200mm square rose, suit square mixers and modern rooms. Keeping one shape throughout gives a tidy, consistent look.
How do I keep a wall shower head clean?
Wipe the face of the rose regularly and rub the rubber nozzles to clear limescale. Clean the arm and head with warm water, mild detergent and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive pads and harsh chemicals, especially on brushed gold, brushed nickel and matte finishes.
Completing the room
Add a shower mixer in a matching finish, or compare rain showers, shower arms and rail showers.
