When it comes to shower time, most of us want a powerful shower that can help us get clean quickly, and a relaxing experience that can help us unwind after a long day. And while there are plenty of shower heads on the market that can offer one or the other, it’s not often that you find one that can do both. That’s where LED shower heads come in.
LED shower heads are a relatively new invention, and they’re quickly gaining popularity thanks to the many benefits they offer. If you’re considering switching to an LED shower head, or if you’re just curious about what they are and how they work, read on for everything you need to know.
What Are LED Shower Heads?
LED shower heads are simply shower heads that feature LEDs (light-emitting diodes) inside the head that are powered by batteries or an external power source. When the water flows through the head, it activates the LEDs, which emit soft, calming light. The light does not affect the water pressure or temperature, and it is safe for both adults and children to use.
The color changes may vary from one to seven or more colors. The colors can be set to change automatically or manually, depending on the model. Some LED shower heads even allow you to choose a specific color or colors that you want to have displayed.
This type of shower head can be handheld or wall-mounted and are available in a variety of styles and designs and can be found at most home improvement stores.
How LED Shower Heads Work
LED shower heads work in an intriguing way. In the shower head, there is a small engine that consists of a turbine, rectifier, and LED lights connected by wiring.
This process happens so quickly: When you turn on your shower, the force of the water entering the shower head turns the turbine, causing it to generate an alternating current. The rectifier picks this alternating current and converts it to direct current, which is in turn, conducted by the LED units. The LED lights then light up once they receive the direct current.
The LED shower heads which change color with the temperature of the water have temperature sensors in the shower heads as well.
Types of LED Shower Heads
LEDs Controlled By Changing Water Temperature
These types of shower heads have in-built temperature sensors that result in color changes as the temperature of the water changes. For instance, the LED lights might flash red when the water is too hot, turn blue when the water is just right, and green when the water is cold.
Random Automatic LED Color Sequence
With these types of LED shower heads, the colors switch randomly and do not have anything to do with the temperature of the water. This type of LED shower head is basically for visual appeal.
Single Color LED
LED shower heads can come in only one color. This type of LED shower head does not have any meaning attached to the color also. Single-color LED shower heads may have less excitement attached to them but still, make shower time more enjoyable.
Manually Controlled LED Shower Head
These LED shower heads have a button or switch that allows you to change the LED colors manually. You can choose to have one color or multiple colors, depending on your preference.
Things To Consider When Selecting An LED Shower Head
When selecting an LED shower head, it is essential to consider the size, shape, and style of the shower head, as well as the type of LED used.
Size And Shape
When choosing an LED shower head, one of the most important considerations is the size and shape of the shower head. Shower heads come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and it is important to select a shower head that will fit comfortably in your shower space. If you have a small shower, you may want to consider a compact or mini LED showerhead.
For larger showers, there are a variety of large and extra-large shower heads to choose from.
Style
LED shower heads are available in various styles, including traditional round shower heads, rain shower heads, waterfall shower heads, and multi-function shower heads. There is sure to be an LED showerhead that will suit your personal style and preferences.
Type of LEDs
One of the most important considerations when selecting an LED shower head is the type of LED used. There are two main types of LEDs used in shower heads: white LEDs and color-changing RGB LEDs. White LEDs are typically used to provide illumination in the shower, while RGB LEDs can be used to change the color of the water.
Color-changing RGB LEDs are becoming more popular in LED shower heads, as they offer a wide range of colors and can be used to create a variety of effects. Some LED shower heads even come with built-in speakers so that you can enjoy your favorite music while you shower.
Benefits Of LED Shower Heads
1. LED Shower Heads Are A Source Of Light
This type of shower head provides illumination in the shower. If your bathroom light dies or there is a power outage, an LED shower head will provide you with illumination while you shower. This means you can still enjoy your shower even when it is dark.
2. LED Shower Heads Improve The Shower Experience
LED shower heads have the tendency to make shower time more exciting. Mostly, for children who fight their bath time, getting an LED shower head can make it easier to convince them to take a shower.
On the other hand, if you consider bathing a relaxing activity, you will enjoy it even more with an LED shower head. the changing color of the water can create a relaxing or romantic ambiance that helps you to enjoy your shower even more.
3. Some LED Shower Heads Can Help You Know The Water Temperature
LED shower heads that change color according to the water temperature can be very helpful. They can help you to know when the water is too hot or too cold without touching the water. With this type of shower head, you can avoid the discomfort of a cold jet of water on your body as well as the burning sensation of very hot water when you step under the shower.
4. LED Shower Heads Are Safe
It is natural to believe that LED shower heads are not as safe as traditional shower heads because they use electrical components. However, LED shower heads are actually very safe to use. They rely on water to generate power. So, there is no risk of being shocked by water. Also, there is no need to worry about battery acid contaminating the water.
5. LED Shower Heads Are Environmentally Friendly
LED shower heads rely on a turbine to operate. Thus, it is eco-friendly as it doesn’t rely on electricity to operate. This means zero energy costs and no harm to the environment.
Drawbacks Of LED Shower Heads
1. They May Require Stronger Water Pressure Than Other Shower Heads
LED shower heads may require stronger water pressure to operate properly. This is because they rely on water to generate power. If your home has weak water pressure, you may want to consider a different type of shower head.
2. LED Shower Heads Can Be More Expensive Than Traditional Shower Heads
LED shower heads are marginally pricier than ordinary shower heads on the market. The price difference may not be that much but it is still significant. However, they are becoming more affordable as technology improves.
3. They Can Weigh Slightly More Than Other Shower Heads
LED shower heads can weigh slightly more than other shower heads because of the components it needs to function. This is not a major problem, but it is something to keep in mind.
4. When LED Systems Fail, It’s No Longer Fun
I bet the whole point of going in for an LED shower head is the LED experience. So, if the LED system fails it completely kills the purpose. Although manufacturers give a long warranty on the LED system, it is something to keep in mind.
How Long Do LED Shower Heads Last?
Most LED shower heads have a lifespan of 50,000 hours or more. That’s equivalent to nearly six years of daily use. Of course, LED shower heads can also last even longer if they’re used less frequently. This means that if you use your shower head for an hour each day, it will last for over 20 years.
LED bulbs are not susceptible to burnout, so you can expect your shower head to perform consistently for its entire lifespan.
Why your LED shower head stopped lighting up
There are a couple of reasons your LED shower head may have stopped lighting up. These include:
1. The Shower Head May Not Be Getting Enough Water Pressure
Some LED shower heads require a certain amount of water pressure to operate the LED system. If your LED shower head stopped lighting up, it may be because the water pressure in your home is too low.
2. The LED System May Be Damaged
The LED system in your shower head may be damaged if it was dropped or knocked around. Sometimes, they may be damaged because over time the LED system can become loose. If this is the case, you’ll need to replace the entire shower head.
3. The Batteries May Be Dead
Most LED shower heads nowadays work purely based on water pressure. But there are still others that require batteries to power the LED system. If your LED shower head stopped lighting up and it uses batteries, it may be because the batteries are dead and need to be replaced.
4. The LED Shower Head May Be Faulty
It’s possible that your LED shower head is simply faulty and needs to be replaced. Like all electronics, LED shower heads can have problems, especially with their wiring. This is especially true if you’ve only had the shower head for a short time.
5. The LED System May Be Turned Off
Some LED shower heads have an on/off switch that controls the LED system. It may be possible you haven’t turned on the LED system which automatically means you won’t see any lights.
6. The Shower Head May Be Blocked By Debris
Your LED shower head may have stopped working because heavy water minerals, grim, and/or salts may have clogged the shower head. The build-up in the shower head may prevent the microturbine from spinning which is necessary to generate power for the LED system.
How To Clean LED Shower Heads
Cleaning LED shower heads are no different from how you would clean a non-mechanical shower head. It is very important to have a routine clean for your LED shower head to prevent build-up and clogging.
Things Needed:
- Warm water
- White vinegar
- Soft sponge or old toothbrush
- Bowl or plastic rubber
Procedure:
- Step 1: Heat some water until it is hot but not boiling. You don’t want to use boiling water as it can damage the LED system and also can scald you.
- Step 2: Fill a bowl or plastic rubber with hot water and white vinegar. Take two parts water to one part white vinegar.
- Step 3: Submerge the LED shower head in the bowl or plastic rubber and let it soak for at least 1 hour to dissolve the build-up. If your LED shower head is really dirty, you may need to let it soak overnight.
- Step 4: After the LED shower head has soaked, use a soft sponge or an old toothbrush to scrub away any remaining build-up.
- Step 5: Rinse the LED shower head with clean water to remove the vinegar smell.
It is best to clean and descale your shower head at least once a month to prevent build-up. But if you live in an area with hard water, you may need to clean it more often.
Are LED Shower Heads Worth It?
I would say LED shower heads are definitely worth it because. They also provide a unique and stylish look to your bathroom that regular shower heads can’t provide. The feeling alone of LED lights shining on you while you shower is priceless. It can make your shower experience 10 times better.
Moreover, the shower experience can be colorful and fun for kids. They will no longer see shower time as a chore but something to look forward to. If you have LED shower heads in your bathroom, your kids will definitely love shower time.
There are many reasons to get LED shower heads but ultimately it comes down to your personal preference. If you like LED lights and want to add a little bit of luxury to your shower experience, LED shower heads are for you.