The standard height for shower controls varies depending on the intended use of the shower. Generally speaking, the handle or other control used to turn the water off and on should be placed at a height of between 42-48 inches from the floor.
The location of other controls such as the temperature control, should be located at a height of between 48-54 inches from the floor. It is important to note that for ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant showers, the handle must be placed no higher than 48 inches from the floor to ensure accessibility for all users regardless of height.
How high should a shower control be off the floor?
The ideal height for a shower control is between 40 and 48 inches off the floor. This allows for the control to be both easily accessible and comfortable to use, depending on the user’s height. If the installation is in an accessible bathroom, it may be beneficial or necessary to install the control at a lower height.
The maximum ADA compliant height for shower controls is 36 inches off the ground. There are also controls available that can be reached from a seated position, which typically have a height of 18 inches off the floor.
Ultimately, it is important to consider factors such as user accessibility and accessibility regulations to determine the ideal height for a shower control.
Where should shower controls be mounted?
Shower controls should be mounted at a comfortable and accessible height, usually 42 to 48 inches from the floor. This will vary depending on the height of the user, but generally, the controls should be mounted so that a user, be it a child or adult, can reach them comfortably.
Additionally, the controls should be located out of the direct spray of the showerhead and far enough away from any showerhead jets so that the user can easily adjust the default settings without leaving the shower area.
Installation also requires taking into account any other fittings, such as handrails, shelves, or shelves that occupy the same wall space. When plotting the shower control’s installation location, there should be enough space so that the user can easily move around and adjust the temperature and pressure settings.
With the installation height and location figured out, careful consideration should also be taken to hardwiring the electrical connection.
What is standard showerhead height?
The standard showerhead height is typically between 80 and 96 inches (203 and 244 cm) above the shower floor. This height is the ideal in order to ensure that the water falls on the bather’s body without requiring them to stand on their toes or crouch in order to get wet.
To determine the best height for a showerhead, measure the height of the tallest person who will likely use the shower. If the ceiling is low, install the showerhead closer to 80 inches from the floor.
If the ceiling is tall, opt for the higher end of the range or even slightly higher to give bathers plenty of comfort when showering. Additionally, if the shower area is designed to be wheelchair accessible, the showerhead should be no higher than 48 inches (122 cm) from the floor.
What are the regulations for fitting an electric shower?
There are certain regulations in place for fitting an electric shower in the UK. The installation must be done by a qualified electrician who is registered with a relevant certification scheme, such as the NICEIC or ELECSA.
The electrician must have been trained in and have a working knowledge of Part P of the Building Regulations. It is the responsibility of the electrician to notify the local building regulation inspector of the work pending installation, and supply them with an Electrical Installation Condition Report when complete.
The electric shower needs to be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, and all local and national wiring regulations must also be followed. These include the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994, and The Plugs & Sockets etc.
(Safety) Regulations 1994.
The isolation switch has to be mounted within two metres of the shower and come into sight when the shower is opened. This must provide complete disconnection of the shower from all sources of electricity with the main switch in the off position and no other means of connection between line and neutral.
Additionally, the shower must be mounted at least three metres away from any source of hot water. This is to prevent accidental scalding.
Can you put shower controls on opposite wall?
Yes, shower controls can be installed on the opposite wall. Generally speaking, this is accomplished by utilizing a shower valve body with a separate diverter that allows functioning components to change direction and be installed on the opposite wall.
Depending on the type of wall, it can be a relatively straightforward task to install shower controls on the opposite wall. However, the process can be more involved if the wall is studded or insulated as additional considerations need to be taken into account.
It is important to consult with an experienced professional to ensure the job is done correctly and efficiently.
How far back do you put a shower valve?
The standard distance for installing a shower valve is 12 to 16 inches from the front of the finished wall surface to the center of the valve. However, many shower valve manufacturers have specific guidelines for the specific shower valves they produce, so it is best to refer to these when installing the valve.
In addition, the depth of the wall studs should be considered during installation as they will affect how far back the valve is installed. For example, if the studs are 16 inches apart then the valve should be placed 12 inches back from the finished wall surface since the thickness of the studs would add 12 inches between the front of the wall and valve.
When installing the valve, it is also important to ensure that the valve fits properly. For example, if you have a 3-valve shower system, the valve should be appropriately spaced to accommodate all three valves.
Additionally, you may need to include extra fittings or accessories to ensure a proper fit.
Can shower be same level as floor?
Yes, shower floors and floors can be the same level. This is an increasingly popular choice for homeowners as it creates a seamless transition between the two areas of the bathroom. The benefits of a same-level flooring scheme are numerous; it makes the bathroom easier to clean, and it gives the room an open, expansive feel.
This type of flooring can also create the illusion of a larger room and, done correctly, can have a modern, contemporary look. If you are considering making your shower floor the same level as the rest of your bathroom floor, make sure you talk to a professional, as special construction and drainage measures may be necessary.
Additionally, it is also important to consider that this type of set up may not be suitable for all types of bathrooms.
How high should a ceiling mount shower head be?
The recommended height for a ceiling mount shower head is 7 feet above the floor. This height should be monitored closely when installing the shower head, as it is important that it is not too low and that it is comfortable and easy to use.
If the shower head is too low, it may cause a person to bend over while showering, which can cause neck and shoulder pain. It is also important to make sure that water is directed away from users to avoid wetting them while they shower.
Generally, the height should not exceed 9 feet above the floor, as anything higher than this may require the use of a stepladder to make the necessary adjustments.
Can a shower head be too high?
Yes, a shower head can be too high. It is important that the top of the shower head is about two inches lower than the tallest person in the house, but no more than six inches below the ceiling, as this prevents the shower from being uncomfortable or awkward to use.
A shower head that is too high can be difficult to use and make it hard to wash the hair. Even if a very tall person is the primary user, it is still important to make sure the height is comfortable for everyone that might use the shower.
What height should a shower mixer bar be?
The ideal height for a shower mixer bar depends on the size of the user and the size of the shower. Generally, a shower mixer bar should be positioned so that it is within comfortable reach of the user when standing.
The center of the shower mixer should be about shoulder height for an average adult, which depending on the user’s height, may mean the shower mixer bar is placed higher or lower than the average. This height should also be considered in combination with the size and function of the shower enclosure – a shower mixer bar placed within a corner shower, for example, may need to be higher than average to accommodate the enclosure’s design.
In addition, it’s important to ensure the shower mixer is placed far enough away from other fixtures, such as the shower head, to allow for comfortable operation. Ultimately, the best height for the shower mixer bar depends on the size and preferences of the user, as well as the purpose and design of the shower enclosure.
How much slope is too much for a shower?
The amount of slope, or ‘fall’, that is too much for a shower will depend on the type of shower, the type of flooring, and the personal preferences of the user. Generally, most professionals recommend a fall of around 2-3mm per metre, however this may be higher for wet rooms or tile based showers which typically require a fall of 3-4mm per metre.
It’s important to get this calculation correct as too much fall can lead to water pooling in areas of the shower, which can eventually cause damage or water ingress. Too little can mean water does not effectively drain, leading to a damp and slippery surface.
It’s also important to bear in mind that a curved or sloped shower tray will require more slope than a level tray. Ultimately, it’s important to find the right balance of fall and flatness in the shower area to ensure the user has a safe and comfortable experience.
Does a walk-in shower need a curb?
Yes, a walk-in shower typically needs a curb. A curb is an elevated edge of the shower that prevents water from flowing out of the shower pan and onto the floor of the bathroom. The curb also helps to keep water inside the shower and make sure it doesn’t splash out onto the bathroom floor.
It also helps to keep water from spilling out when someone is using the shower. The curb can range from a few inches to several feet high depending on the type of shower that you have and the size of the walk-in shower.
Additionally, a curb can provide structural support for the shower pan or the walls that surround the shower. Finally, the curb can also add visual interest to the shower area.
Does shower have to have mixing valve for code?
Yes, most local building codes require a mixing valve to be installed on shower valves. This is done to protect against scalding water. Without a mixing valve, the flow of hot water into the shower would be approximately double the flow of cold water, which could result in unpleasant or dangerous high water temperature.
The mixing valve will reduce the hot water flow and mix it with cold water, providing a safe and comfortable temperature. The mixing valve should be installed directly after the hot and cold water lines respectively but before the shower valve.
Professional plumbers are typically knowledgeable about the specific shower code regulations in their area.
Should shower valve be centered with drain?
Yes, a shower valve should typically be centered with the drain. When positioning the valve, you should use plumbing code as a guide, which often requires the valve to be centered with the drain. This helps ensure that the water drains correctly when the shower is in use.
If the valve is not centered with the drain, it can cause the water to drain slowly from the shower, potentially leading to water leaking on the floor and the potential for mold growth. Additionally, keeping the valve centered with the drain will also help the water drain evenly, ensuring that all areas of the shower are getting equal amounts of water when in use.