How to Choose the Right Shower Head

• Think about who's using the shower and your preferences before comparing options.
• Most standard shower heads fit a shower arm with a ½-inch outer diameter and male threads, be sure to double-check your fit before buying.
• Mount your shower head around 77"–81" from the shower floor (or tub floor)
• Bring your measurements, a tape measure, and a photo of your current finish to compare options in store.

If you have decided you need a new shower head, there are a few things you should do before heading to the store. Here is everything you need to do and consider before purchasing your new shower head.

• Think about who’s using the shower. Just you? You and your better half? Your family of five, plus the dog?
• Consider your shower preferences and habits. Do you like a relaxing mist or pulsating, vigorous spray? Do you dream of a detachable handshower that can help you spray down your pets?
• Manage your expectations. Updating a shower head is an easy job to tackle yourself. Are you considering a bigger change, such as adding body sprays or an overhead rain shower head? If so, you may need to call in a pro.
• Here's how to measure your shower head size, and everything else you'll want to check before you shop:
  • The size of the shower arm—that’s the pipe coming out of the wall. Measure its diameter as well as how far it sticks out. And note whether the threads are on the outside or inside of the pipe (that’s “male” and “female” in plumbing-speak)
  • The distance from the shower arm to the ceiling (should be within about 2 feet).
  • The length, width, and height of your shower stall.

Other considerations:

Size: Standard shower heads run 3–5 inches across (up to 6 inches for our larger options); rain heads run 8–14 inches and need more ceiling clearance.

Shower Head Height: This should be about 80 inches from the shower or bathroom floor. Same rule for a bathtub.

Fit: Most shower heads use the standard U.S. thread size, so a new one usually screws right on with no adapter needed.

• The measurements.
• A measuring tape.
• A photo of any finish you’ll match the shower head to, such as on a body sprayer or a tub faucet (not all bronzes and brushed nickels are alike).

• Check for fit. Many shower heads are designed to fit a standard shower arm with a ½-inch outer diameter and male threads.
• Consider the shower head’s arc, the angle of your shower arm and how much headroom exists above the pipe. Is there room to angle the shower head and spray how you like it?
• Find out if the shower head is covered by a warranty and ask about overall durability and performance.
• Shop where you can actually feel the water. A few retailers have working shower head displays where homeowners can experience spray patterns with their hands before purchasing.
• Going to the store prepared will make purchasing your new shower head a breeze. Once you've got your new pick, read our guide on how to replace a shower head.

What's the standard height for a shower head?
A shower head is typically mounted around 80 inches from the shower floor, which is the standard most plumbers use. Our own kitchen and bathroom measurement guide puts the sweet spot at 77" to 81".  

As a rule of thumb, aim for about 6 inches taller than the tallest person using the shower or consider a detachable hand held shower to give flexibility to all household members. 

What about the height of a shower head in a bathtub?
The height of the shower head in the bathtub shower should be between 77” and 81” high. 

How do I know if a shower head will fit my existing shower arm?
Most shower heads are designed to fit a standard shower arm with a ½-inch outer diameter and male threads. Before you shop, measure your shower arm's diameter, note how far it extends from the wall, and check whether the threads are on the outside (male) or inside (female). 

You'll also want to consider the angle of the shower arm and the available headroom to make sure the new shower head can be positioned comfortably in your space. 

What size shower faucet do I need?
You don't typically choose a shower faucet by size. Instead, select a shower head faucet based on your shower configuration, preference for different spray volume and intensity, and whether you're replacing an existing fixture or creating a new shower system.

How do I measure my shower head thread size?
Most U.S. shower arms and shower heads, including all Delta®, use a standard ½ inch NPSM or NPT thread. That means you can usually just check the connection on your existing shower arm: if it's a standard U.S. fitting, a new head will screw on directly with no adapter needed.