Shower fixtures should be accessible from outside and inside the shower enclosure so the water flow and temperature can be adjusted from either place. The National Kitchen & Bath Association recommends that shower controls be offset toward the shower door rather than centered below the showerhead. This makes it easier to control the water flow without getting wet.
Standard shower fixtures are available with separate hot and cold controls or with a single-handle control. Spending more for high-quality shower controls will probably pay off in longer, more trouble-free service. A high-quality shower fixture carries a warranty and is made from heavy brass parts that are easy to replace.
ShowerheadsLike other bathroom fixtures, a wide variety of showerheads are now available in most hardware stores and home centers. Some of the higher-end models can be programmed for water temperature and flow rate. When buying a showerhead, remember that a bigger head doesn't necessarily give you more water flow. Federal regulations limit the maximum flow rate of shower fixtures.
Handheld showerheads (often equipped with adjustable-flow heads) allow more freedom for directing the spray. Some handheld models can be mounted on a vertical bar, allowing the entire spray mechanism to slide up and down. Because they are versatile and adjustable, handheld showerheads work well for children and disabled people. An alternative to the traditional showerhead is the shower bar, which contains several nozzles arranged in a row.
