How to Create a Shower System

Master Advice from the "Shower Experts" - hansgrohe

Creating a shower system will be made easier and more enjoyable with thorough planning prior to installation. By exploring all the options first, you can have a pleasant experience in the design and specification of your system as well as in using it!

What elements do I need to create a shower system?

  • Showerhead
  • Handshower
  • Wall Outlet
  • Bodyspray
  • Wallbar
  • Thermostatic Valve w/Volume Control
  • Thermostatic Valve w/Volume Control and Diverter
  • Trio 2-Way Diverter
  • Quattro 3-Way Diverter

You may have some questions before planning your shower system:

  • What do I want from my shower? Relaxation, invigoration? More than one user at a time?
  • Where can I put a shower system? How much space will I need?
  • How much do I want to spend? How much will I need to spend?
  • What are the parts and components that I will need?
  • How will all the valves and controls work together?
  • What about the water supply, drainage and other practical considerations?
  • Have I considered all possible users? Children, elderly users?
  • Are there any special requirements, like access for the mobility challenged?

What should I take into account when designing my shower system?

Budget: Determine a budget for creating your shower system.
Space: Showers can range in size from about 30" x 30" to any customized dimension.
Enclosures: Enclosures contain splashing and create a more private space, but they are not a necessity when designing a shower system. An open plan can offer many possibilities.
Water Volume: Determine the water volume you have to have for your custom shower. The Flow Rate Work Sheet will help you with this.
Water Flow: We recommend 40 - 65 PSI for a shower system to operate properly. Your plumber or contractor can help you determine your average incoming water pressure.
Water Heater: It is important to ensure sufficient hot water supply. Here again, the Flow Rate Work Sheet will help you estimate the throughput of a system.
Floor Drain: Install a drain (or multiple drains) that can handle twice the amount of water as all components combined provide.
Local Codes: Local plumbing codes vary greatly from state to state. Be sure to understand and follow them.
Time: Installation time may also be a factor, especially on do-it-yourself jobs. For peace of mind and efficiency, we recommend that shower systems be installed by a licensed plumber.