What does the LED shower head do?

LED shower heads have become increasingly popular in recent years as a unique and eye-catching upgrade to a standard shower head. But what exactly is an LED shower head and what purpose does it serve? Let’s take a closer look at what makes these shower heads different.

What is an LED Shower Head?

An LED shower head is a shower head that contains LED lights inside the shower head fixture. The LED lights illuminate the shower water as it flows out of the shower head, creating a glowing, colorful stream of water.

Most LED shower heads contain multiple LED lights in a variety of colors, such as red, blue, green, and more. The LED lights are encased inside the shower head housing and sealed tightly so that water does not damage the lights. The lights are powered by electricity and require the shower head to be installed properly and connected to power in order to light up and function.

What are the Benefits of an LED Shower Head?

There are a few key benefits that LED shower heads provide:

• Unique, eye-catching effect – The glowing streams of color created by an LED shower head provide a unique and dramatic visual effect in your shower. It can make your shower feel more fun, lively, and like a spa-like experience.
• Ambiance – Many people enjoy the ambiance and atmosphere that the colored lighting provides in the shower. It can make your shower feel more relaxing and special.
• Energy efficient – LED bulbs require very little electricity to run and last much longer than other bulb types. This makes them an energy efficient upgrade over other shower head options.
• Various settings – Most LED shower heads offer settings to control the color, light pattern, and temperature of the lights. This lets you customize your shower experience.
• Easy installation – LED shower heads are designed for easy installation and can be installed just like any other shower head by connecting it to existing plumbing.

How Does an LED Shower Head Work?

The internal mechanisms of an LED shower head that allow it to provide colored lighting are relatively straightforward. Here is an overview:

• LED lights – The LED lights inside the shower head fixture provide the colored lighting. Multiple LEDs in red, blue, green, and other colors are included.
• Power source – The LEDs are powered by an electric power source. Options include batteries, electric wiring to the home’s circuitry, or a generator built into the shower head.
• Watertight seal – The LEDs are encased in a plastic housing and sealed with waterproof materials like silicone. This prevents water damage as the water flows over the LEDs.
• Controller – An integrated controller manages the lights, allowing adjustments to the colors, patterns, brightness, and more through buttons or wireless remote.
• Lenses/filters – Some shower heads have plastic lenses or filters to diffuse or direct the LED light into the water for unique lighting effects.

When the shower head is turned on, water flows through the LED fixture. The flowing water does not disrupt the watertight LED housing. The lights illuminate the water as it passes over them, creating glowing colored streams.

What Types of LED Shower Heads are Available?

There are a few different design styles and options available when selecting an LED shower head:

• LED Rainfall Shower Heads – These shower heads are large and round, designed to mimic soothing tropical rainfall. The LEDs provide ambient glow across a wide showering area.
• LED Handheld Shower Heads – Handheld shower heads have a nozzle and flexible hose for directed water flow. The LED version adds colored lighting effects.
• LED Rain Shower and Regular Combo – Many shower heads combine an LED rainfall fixture with a standard fixed shower head for versatility.
• Bluetooth/App Controlled – Top models allow custom lighting control through Bluetooth and smartphone apps for ultimate customization.
• Power Sources – Battery, electric, or water-generated power allow installation in any home.

There are LED shower heads available in all different price ranges as well. More lights, effects, and controls typically means a higher price tag.

How Much Does an LED Shower Head Cost?

LED shower heads range in price fairly significantly depending on the model, features, and any special effects included:

• Basic models – $50 – $100
• Mid-range models – $100 – $200
• High-end models – $200 – $500+

Here are some factors that affect the cost of LED shower heads:

• Number of LED lights – More LEDs means a higher cost.
• Special effects – Things like colored water streams, flashing/pulsing lights, or music-synced lighting raise the price.
• Controls – More control settings and options like Bluetooth or touchscreens increase cost.
• Battery vs electric – Battery operated models are often more expensive than those that wire into your home’s electric.
• Brand name – Leading luxury brands charge more for their products and features.

While an inexpensive $50 LED shower head can provide some great effects, paying $200 or more gets you better lighting effects, customization, and an overall enhanced shower experience.

How to Install an LED Shower Head

Installing an LED shower head is a relatively straightforward process that can typically be tackled by anyone comfortable doing minor home improvements and plumbing work. Here are the basic steps:

1. Turn off water supply – Turn off the water supply to the shower and relieve pressure by turning on the shower temporarily. This prevents water from spraying out when removing the old shower head.
2. Remove old shower head – Use a wrench to loosen and unscrew the old shower head from the pipe fitting in the wall.
3. Clean and prepare – Clean the shower arm threads and apply plumber’s tape to prevent leaks.
4. Connect LED wiring – If the LED shower head requires wiring, connect the input cable now. Ensure no exposed wires are touching and the connections are secure.
5. Attach new shower head – Securely screw on the new LED shower head, tightening by hand and then with a wrench. Don’t over tighten.
6. Turn on water – Turn the shower water supply back on and test for leaks around the new shower head connections.
7. Waterproof – Use additional plumber’s tape or silicone caulk if needed to seal any leaks.
8. Test lights – Turn on the shower and test the LED lights. Make any adjustments to the settings as needed.

If your plumbing skills aren’t up to the task, you can always hire a handyman service to install your new LED shower head safely and correctly.

LED Shower Head Maintenance Tips

To keep your LED shower head working properly for a long time, follow these maintenance tips:

• Clean regularly – Use a non-abrasive cleaner to remove any mineral deposits that build up.
• Check seals – Visually inspect the seals around the LED housing for damage or leaks.
• Avoid impacts – Prevent the shower head from direct impacts that could damage components.
• Check wires – If wired to the home’s electric, ensure no fraying or damaged wiring.
• Check battery – For battery powered models, periodically replace the battery as needed.
• Avoid submerging – Never fully submerge the entire shower head in water.

With occasional cleaning and care, an LED shower head can provide years of reliable service and great shower experiences.

LED Shower Head Safety Tips

LED shower heads enhance your showering experience, but it’s crucial to keep electrical safety in mind during use and installation. Follow these tips:

• Use a GFCI outlet if wired directly – This prevents electrocution from malfunctions.
• Keep completely dry – Don’t operate if water gets in non-waterproof areas of the lights or wiring.
• Professional installation – Consider hiring a pro if you lack electrical expertise.
• Check seals routinely – Ensure all waterproof seals are intact with no leaks.
• Turn off before maintenance – Always switch off the shower and power before any maintenance or cleaning.
• Avoid opening housing – Never open or tamper with the LED housing itself.
• Consider low-voltage – Opt for battery-powered or low-voltage options if concerned about electrical hazards.

By taking the proper precautions, you can enjoy dazzling LED shower head lights safely.

Conclusion

LED shower heads provide an eye-catching way to enhance your showering experience with colorful, dazzling light effects. The LED lights illuminate the shower water as it passes through the shower head fixture, creating ambient lighting or glowing colored water streams. These fixtures offer benefits like added shower ambiance, fun personalized settings, and energy efficiency. Prices range from around $50 for basic models up to $500 or more for deluxe, app-controlled shower heads. With proper installation and periodic maintenance like cleaning and battery replacement, an LED shower head can provide hours of enjoyable use. Following some common-sense electrical safety precautions allows you to add these lights safely to your shower.