Overview of types of shower panels

Showers with many functions are the dream of many. However, such devices can not be installed by everyone. This is due to their high cost, the need to dismantle the bathroom and install the cabin (this is the option available to most apartment buildings). Consider the main nuances and types of shower panels.

Shower panel - open design without tray. It is a compact, functional device with several options that can replace the shower cubicle or be mounted on the wall next to the bathtub. Its cost is much lower than the price of shower cabins with similar capabilities, and installation is simpler and faster. Due to the availability of structures of various designs, you can choose a device for any interior.

The components of the panels are the body, equipment and additional accessories. The case is based on acrylic, aluminum alloy or special glass. They are characterized by strength, resistance to water. Internal equipment includes shower heads, nozzles, various nozzles and a mixer, as well as a control system. The latter can be mechanical (manual) or electronic (in which case it is equipped with a display).

As a rule, the panels have 2 shower heads: top (static) and manual (fixed in a special holder, connected to the mixer by means of a hose). Some manufacturers only equip inexpensive models with a hand shower. Depending on the method, or rather the installation site, there are 3 options for shower panels.

• Corner. Used mainly for small spaces. Allows you to get the maximum comfort of the procedure in a limited space.

• Wall. It can be mounted anywhere in the room, therefore it is usually used for large rooms. Wall panels are also built-in.
• Universal. Unlike the first two, it is installed at the request of the user (in the corner, on the wall).

Based on the design features, the following types of devices are distinguished.

They are a block on which all buttons and control knobs are located. The convenience of such systems lies in the simpler installation (just fix and connect the panel).

A structure, the elements of which are installed separately. Despite the more laborious installation process, such systems allow you to customize each element in accordance with your own preferences. For example, it is possible to adjust the self-contained shower according to the height. When using monolithic analogs, this is not possible.

Depending on which mixer the panel is equipped with, several types are distinguished.

Faucets with a spout are suitable for those who use a shower as well as a bath. Devices with pouring water into the bathroom allow you to quickly collect the required volume of water without spreading splashes around.

High-precision devices in which you can set the required water temperature with an accuracy of a degree.Such varieties are convenient, they are somewhat unusual, but have already been highly appreciated by specialists.

Their feature is the ability to set the desired temperature, which will subsequently be set automatically. Users of this model do not face the problem of a sudden change in temperature during the shower procession. This is due to the fact that the thermostat present in the system does not respond to changes in the pressure in the pipes by increasing or decreasing the temperature.

In devices with a mixer, the latter can be single-lever (the water temperature is regulated by changing the position of the lever in the horizontal direction, the degree of pressure - by moving it vertically) and traditional double-lever (equipped with cold and hot water valves).

Speaking about the types of panels, it should be noted that this unit has 3 classes.

The device of this class has a plastic or acrylic panel, 1-4 nozzles, providing acupressure. They are characterized by the lowest cost.

Better and more functional devices made of acrylic or aluminum. They are equipped with 2 types of jets: lateral (their number ranges from 4 to 6) and central (usually there are 3 of them, designed for back massage).

The most expensive option, the equipment of which is the same as in the Medium panels. The difference lies in the ability to set a different rhythm for the nozzles.

Depending on the availability of certain options, devices are:

Such models can be located above the bathroom or directly on the wall (when the panel is not intended to be used together with the bathroom). The hydromassage panel has a variety of nozzles, from which water jets flow under different pressures.

Such procedures:

• allow to improve blood circulation;
• increase immunity;
• help in the fight against excess weight and cellulite;
• invigorate;
• help relieve stress.

Taking a shower is like walking in the rain. Large drops fall gently from above, slowly flowing down the body. Maximum relaxation while swimming is guaranteed. The wide shower surface and the special type of water holes create the effect of a rain shower.

The color of the water may change during the procedure. This function, like the backlight, is found in more expensive models. A rain shower can have several modes. The most popular is the mode in which the droplets are of medium size (rain effect), an uninterrupted jet is noted (waterfall feeling), as well as the mode of feeding small droplets (water dust).

If the classification is based on the control principle, then the panels have different controls.

• Electronic. Such devices are more expensive, they are equipped with a special display, make it possible to change the water temperature with an accuracy of 1 degree, turn on the backlight, and change the operating mode of the nozzles.
• Mechanical. These are simpler and less functional models.

When installing the panel, its future location should be taken into account (above the bathroom, in a purchased shower box, a homemade shower without a pallet). In the shower box (closed device), the panel can be installed on the wall or in the corner.If a panel with hydromassage is installed, then the space from the floor to the sewer pipe should be no more than 7 cm. If it is more, it is necessary to install a podium under the cabin pallet. Another important point is the presence of sealing in the places where the panel is connected to the surfaces of the cabin. For docking outside the cabin, acrylic is used, inside it - silicone sealants.

If a decision is made to make the simplest shower room without a pallet with your own hands, then initially a hole should be made in the floor to drain the water. After that, the floor is covered with anti-slip tiles, which are laid out at a slight angle to the drain hole. Next, you need to assemble and install the fence posts, after which you can supply water to the panel mixer.

The rating of shower panels is usually headed by the devices of the German company Hansgrohe. The manufacturer's collection contains models of all classes, which means that each user will find a device that meets his requirements and financial capabilities. Even the most inexpensive models of this brand have 2 shower heads - hand and top. 80% of products are equipped with a user-selectable thermostat (manual or electronic). A feature of the products is ergonomics, laconic and stylish design. The panels are based on high-tech metal alloys that are resistant to corrosion, temperature drops and mechanical damage.

Panels of the Italian brand are in no less consumer demand. Albatros... It is appreciated by the owners of small bathrooms, since there are many corner panels in the collection. The products are distinguished by their compactness, high quality and durability. The devices of another Italian manufacturer also differ in ergonomics and functionality. Jacuzzi... For example, the dimensions of the model REI are only 1.43 m high and 17 cm wide. This model provides a tropical rain effect and is equipped with 4 hydromassage jets.

The brand deserves attention Grohe... Its products are the embodiment of the famous German quality. The choice of buyers offered systems with overhead and hand shower, many options. The price depends on the class of the device, its functionality. All elements, including fittings made of ceramic plates, are characterized by reliability and durability. If you entrust the installation of the panel to the manufacturer's service center, the product warranty will be 5 years.

Premium shower panels can be found in the collection of the company River... There are quite a few models here equipped with a mixer with a spout, all devices have a thermostat. A feature of the product is a large number of nozzles (in many models their number is maximum - 6 pieces). Among the useful accessories are shelves, mirrors, lighting.

Lovers of comfort and practical solutions will appreciate shower panels. Dorff (Germany). Their devices are characterized by conciseness, ergonomics and maximum functionality. Thanks to the use of durable glass as the basis of the panels, they have a modern, dynamic appearance. These products are characterized by durability.

Another brand that consistently falls into the leading positions in the compilation of ratings of shower panels - Avek... The country of origin is Russia, the components used in production are supplied by the brand from German suppliers. Buying such a shower panel is a great opportunity to get a product of European quality and style at an affordable price. The body and shower of the models are made of stainless steel. This is a worthy option for small-sized rooms (it is ergonomic), while having a solid list of options.

If the aesthetic component of the panel is important to you, pay attention to the proposals of the company Gllon... Their devices are always the author's design, an exquisite combination of form and functionality. There are models with a frame made of colored glass, as well as devices in a retro style. For those who are looking for more affordable panels, you can recommend hydromassage devices from a Czech company Ravak... Its products are a harmonious combination of innovative developments, ease of operation and design solutions in matters of unit design. Among the devices in the middle price range are products Byon.

If you are concerned about water consumption, choose models from European manufacturers that allow you to save water. Their principle of operation can be based on reducing the amount of water at a high flow rate. Another option is the presence of a special mechanism, the task of which is to reduce the number of shower head channels at high flow rates. The use of such devices allows you to reduce water consumption by 10-30%. Of course, such a system costs a little more, but the price will pay off already in the first months of using the panel.

When choosing a panel, pay attention to the design of the water divider in the watering can (the part where the water jets come from). The optimal watering can is a model equipped with nozzles (silicone tubes that are inserted into each water hole). Due to their presence, the holes will not be clogged with limescale; if the pressure is insufficient, the drops will not combine. The most convenient for use is a shower with a watering can in the form of a circle, oval, square. Using a device with a rectangular watering can or a design option may not always be comfortable.

In the next video you will find the installation of the Gllon SL094-1 shower panel with hydromassage.