Shower heads with lights have become increasingly popular in recent years. Many modern shower fixtures now come with LED lights built into the shower head. The lights serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. Visually, illuminated shower heads can create a spa-like ambience in the bathroom. The lighting also makes it easier to see when showering. There are a few different ways that manufacturers are able to create shower heads that light up.
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LED technology
LED, which stands for light-emitting diode, is the key technology that allows shower heads to be illuminated. LEDs are energy efficient, long-lasting, and can be made very small. This makes them perfect for integrating into shower heads. Here’s a quick overview of how LEDs work:
– LEDs are semiconductors that emit light when an electric current passes through them.
– Unlike traditional incandescent bulbs that use a filament heated by electric current to produce light, LEDs generate light themselves.
– LEDs are very energy efficient. They require much less electricity to operate than other types of lighting.
– LED bulbs can last up to 50,000 hours, compared to only 1,000 hours for incandescent bulbs.
– LEDs come in very small sizes, making them ideal for compact devices like shower heads.
So in summary, LED technology gives shower head manufacturers an energy efficient, long-lasting and compact lighting source to work with. This is what makes it possible to integrate lighting into shower heads.
Power Source
For LED lights in a shower head to work, they need a power source. Shower head LEDs are powered in one of three ways:
Battery Powered
Some shower heads contain small batteries within the shower head. Usually coin cell batteries are used. These batteries power the LED lights. The batteries can last 6 months to a year before needing to be replaced.
Wired Power
Higher-end shower heads may connect directly to your home’s electric system. This eliminates the need for battery replacement. Wires run inside the shower arm mounting bracket up to the shower head.
Water Powered
The most advanced and innovative shower heads generate electricity from the flowing water. Small internal turbines convert the kinetic energy of water flow into electric energy that powers the LEDs. This approach requires no batteries or wiring. As long as water is flowing through the shower head, the lights will stay on.
Lighting Features
There are a number of different lighting effects and features that modern LED shower heads may have:
Fixed vs Adjustable Lighting
In basic models, the LEDs provide fixed illumination. The lights are always on when water is flowing. More advanced models allow you to adjust settings like light color and intensity.
Light Color
LEDs can produce different colored light. Most shower heads let you choose between warm, cool, and day-light color temperatures. Others may have RGB LEDs that allow you to pick any color.
Light Patterns
Programmable LED shower heads can be set to display different lighting effects. These include fading, flashing, cascading, and color-cycling light patterns.
Timer Settings
You may be able to set timers to control when the LEDs turn on and off when showering. For example, setting the lights to turn off automatically after 10 minutes.
Brightness Adjustment
Higher-end models allow you to control the brightness of the LED lights. You can set the intensity from dim mood lighting up to bright task lighting.
Music Sync
Some shower heads can synchronize the LED lighting to music playing in your bathroom. The lights pulse and change color along with the music’s beat and tempo.
Internal Components
Here are some of the main components that allow an LED shower head to operate:
LED lighting array
The LEDs themselves are arranged into a ring or circle inside the shower head. This allows the LEDs to shine in all directions and angles. The number of LED bulbs can range from 6 up to 100+ depending on the model.
Circuit board
A small printed circuit board is responsible for powering and controlling the LED array. The circuit board regulates electricity to the LEDs and has integrated circuits for any digital controls or programming.
Light diffuser
A translucent plastic diffuser spreads and softens the LED light. This provides a uniform glowing illumination. The diffuser also protects the LED components from water exposure.
Water turbine
In water-powered models, a small turbine about the size of a quarter converts water momentum into rotational energy. This turbine powers a mini generator that creates electricity for the LED lights.
Power converter
For wired shower heads, a step-down converter transforms 120-volt household current into low voltage DC power suitable for the LEDs.
Cost considerations
Here are some of the factors that impact the cost of illuminated shower heads:
– Basic battery-powered shower heads start around $25. More advanced options with music syncing and digital controls can cost over $200.
– Power source – water-powered models are generally more expensive than battery or wired versions.
– Number of LEDs – More LEDs means higher cost.
– Materials – Brass, chrome, nickel, and other premium finishes are more expensive.
– Smart controls – Models with timers, brightness adjustment, light patterns, etc. have higher price tags.
So in summary, lower-priced shower heads have simple but effective lighting, while higher-end models have more customization and innovative features. Consider how much functionality you want when choosing a product.
Installation
Installing a light up shower head is a very straightforward process. Here are the basic steps:
1. Turn off the water at the shut off valve and relieve any pressure in the lines.
2. Unscrew the existing shower head from the shower arm and carefully remove it.
3. Wrap the shower arm threads with Teflon tape. This prevents leaks.
4. For battery powered models, insert the batteries into the new LED shower head if needed.
5. Screw on the new LED shower head by hand until tight and secure.
6. Turn the main water back on and check for leaks during operation.
7. Adjust the angle of the shower head direction as desired.
If you are replacing a basic shower head with an LED model, the only difference is the short time needed to insert the batteries or connect the wiring inside the shower arm bracket. So upgrading to an illuminated shower head is fast and easy.
Maintenance
Illuminated shower heads require minimal maintenance. Just a few quick tips:
– For battery models, replace the batteries about once a year or when LED brightness begins fading.
– For hard water areas, periodically clean the shower head diffuser with vinegar or citric acid to remove any mineral buildup.
– For water-powered LEDs, check the internal turbine periodically and remove any debris or grit to ensure proper operation.
– Never take apart or try to repair the internal electronics yourself. Purchase a replacement if needed.
– Avoid using harsh cleaners, abrasives, or chemicals on the shower head exterior. Just wipe down with gentle soap and water.
– Check wires and connections on wired models to make sure everything remains intact and waterproof.
Following these simple maintenance practices will help ensure your LED shower head provides reliable illumination for many years. Contact the manufacturer if you have any persistent issues not solved by basic maintenance.
Benefits
Here are some of the top benefits that come with installing an LED illuminated shower head:
Improved shower ambience
The soothing colored glow creates a warm, spa-like environment for a more enjoyable showering experience. The lighting transforms an ordinary bathroom into a calming oasis.
Better visibility
The LED lighting makes it much easier to see in the shower without having to turn on bright overhead lights. This is especially helpful for shaving, grooming, or showering at night.
Energy efficiency
LED shower heads use a fraction of the electricity of traditional incandescent or fluorescent lights. Battery-powered models use no home electricity at all.
Long lifespan
LED technology lasts for decades. You’ll avoid frequent bulb changes needed for older-style light fixtures.
Design appeal
Illuminated shower heads have a very sleek, modern look. They can enhance the aesthetic of contemporary or high-tech bathrooms.
Relaxation
The ambient colored lighting has a soothing, therapeutic effect that can help you relax and de-stress after a long day.
Customization
Advanced models allow you to adjust colors, patterns, and brightness to your liking to match your mood or activities.
So in summary, shower heads with integrated LED lighting provide both form and function. The benefits range from the practical to the aesthetic. The illumination makes showering safer and more enjoyable while creating a clean, contemporary look.
Safety Tips
Illuminated shower heads involve electricity and water, so it’s smart to keep these safety guidelines in mind:
– Purchase shower heads certified by safety testing organizations like UL, ETL, or CSA.
– Avoid very cheap models that likely skimp on waterproofing or electrical safety.
– Have a licensed electrician install any hardwired shower heads to ensure proper connections.
– Never modify or disassemble internal wiring yourself.
– Keep shower head electrical components away from water aside from enclosed LED modules.
– Check for signs of water leaks, moisture, or corrosion over time.
– Turn off power at breaker when replacing batteries in battery-powered models.
– Ensure any batteries are inserted correctly following polarity markings.
– Avoid shining very bright LED lights directly into eyes.
– Keep children and pets away from open installations before completing the shower head attachment.
Following basic precautions and using common sense will keep your illuminated shower head safe for your entire household. Check with local codes for any regulations regarding electrical devices in bathrooms.
Top Brands
Some of the leading manufacturers of illuminated shower heads include:
Moen
Moen offers shower heads with LED lights powered by either batteries or hardwired installation. Many models feature adjustable lights and spray settings.
Delta
Delta’s H2Okinetic line has shower heads with LED lights, touch controls, and innovative spray functions. Energy efficiency and design are highlighted.
Kohler
From bold contemporary styles to more traditional designs, Kohler has a range of shower head models with integrated colored LED lighting.
American Standard
American Standard provides illuminated shower heads featuring easy-to-clean finishes, adjustable light colors, and maintenance-free operation.
Speakman
Speakman manufactures solid-brass shower heads with integrated LED lights that can match your bathroom’s finish and decor.
These top brands offer stylish, well-designed, and innovative illuminated shower heads to enhance your bathing experience. There are models available at different price points to suit any project budget.
Conclusion
Modern LED lighting technology makes it possible for shower heads to provide beautiful illumination while you bathe. The lights create a warm ambience, allow safer showering in the dark, and use very little energy. With options ranging from basic to luxury, you can find an LED shower head perfect for your bathroom and budget. Just take care to install and maintain the electrical components properly. An illuminated shower head provides both function and style to enhance your daily self-care routine.