If you’re reading this blog then you’re pretty deep into your research journey of purchasing your first or next outdoor shower. The very fact that you’re reading this means that you are serious about making the best purchasing decision possible.
So where do you start?
It can feel overwhelming to make such a large purchase over the internet. There are so many options and how do you know who is legit and who isn’t? This is a common roadblock many current and future outdoor shower owners encounter.
The Outdoor Shower Buying Guide was created to help take the guesswork out of buying an outdoor shower. We’ve done the legwork for you and compiled all the information you need to make an informed decision.
In this guide, we will cover:
- The different types of outdoor showers
- Outdoor shower installation considerations
- Outdoor shower maintenance tips
- Outdoor shower FAQs
So whether you’re a first-time buyer or you’re looking to upgrade your existing outdoor shower, this guide will give you all the information you need to make the best purchase possible.
WHAT IS AN OUTDOOR SHOWER AND WHY WOULD I WANT ONE?
An outdoor shower is exactly what it sounds like – a shower that is located outside. Outdoor showers can be freestanding or attached to your home and are usually made of weather-resistant materials like stainless steel, copper, or PVC.
There are many reasons why people choose to install an outdoor shower. For some, it’s a practical way to wash off after spending time in the pool or garden. For others, it’s a luxurious way to enjoy some peace and relaxation in nature. And for some, it’s simply a way to save water (and money) by not having to use the indoor shower as much.
No matter your reason, an outdoor shower can be a great addition to your home.
WHAT TYPES OF OUTDOOR SHOWERS ARE THERE?
There are three main types of outdoor showers:
- Freestanding Outdoor Showers
- Attached Outdoor Showers
- Solar Outdoor Showers
Let’s take a closer look at each type...
FREESTANDING OUTDOOR SHOWERS
Freestanding outdoor showers are the most common type. They are easy to install and can be placed just about anywhere in your yard. All you need is a water source (like a garden hose) and a level surface.
Most freestanding outdoor showers come with their own shower base, so you don’t have to worry about building one yourself. And because they are not attached to your home, they can be easily moved if you ever decide to change locations.
One downside of freestanding outdoor showers is that they can be less private than other types. If privacy is a concern for you, be sure to place your shower in an area that is not visible from the street or your neighbor’s homes. You can also use privacy screens or plants to create a more private space.
ATTACHED OUTDOOR SHOWERS
Attached outdoor showers are attached to the side of your home, usually near the back door or mudroom. They are more permanent than freestanding showers and often require some plumbing work to install.
One of the benefits of attached outdoor showers is that they are typically more private than freestanding showers. But because they are attached to your home, they can be more difficult (and expensive) to move if you ever decide to change locations.
SOLAR OUTDOOR SHOWERS
Solar outdoor showers are a great option if you want an eco-friendly shower that doesn’t require any plumbing. They rely on solar power to heat the water, so they are completely self-sufficient.
Solar outdoor showers are typically portable, so you can take them with you when you travel. And because they don’t require any plumbing, they are relatively easy to set up. Just be sure to place your shower in an area where it will get plenty of sun exposure.
WHAT SHOULD I CONSIDER BEFORE INSTALLING AN OUTDOOR SHOWER?
There are a few things you should consider before installing an outdoor shower:
- Zoning Laws and Building Permits – Be sure to check with your local zoning laws and see if you need a building permit to install an outdoor shower.
- Water Source – You will need a water source for your outdoor shower. If you don’t have a nearby water source, you may need to install one. This can be costly and time-consuming, so be sure to factor that into your decision.
- Drainage – Outdoor showers can cause drainage issues if they are not installed properly. Be sure to check with your local building codes to see what type of drainage is required in your area.
- Privacy – Outdoor showers are typically less private than indoor showers. If privacy is a concern for you, be sure to place your shower in an area that is not visible from the street or your neighbor’s homes. You can also use privacy screens or plants to create a more private space.
- Maintenance – Outdoor showers require more maintenance than indoor showers. Be sure to clean your shower regularly to prevent mildew and mold from growing.
WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON OUTDOOR SHOWER PROBLEMS?
The most common outdoor shower problems are:
- Leaks – Outdoor showers are susceptible to leaks if they are not installed properly. Be sure to check your shower regularly for leaks and have them repaired as soon as possible.
- Drainage Issues – Outdoor showers can cause drainage issues if they are not installed properly. Be sure to check with your local building codes to see what type of drainage is required in your area.
- Maintenance – Outdoor showers require more maintenance than indoor showers. Be sure to clean your shower regularly to prevent mildew and mold from growing.
- Privacy – Outdoor showers are typically less private than indoor showers. If privacy is a concern for you, be sure to place your shower in an area that is not visible from the street or your neighbor’s homes. You can also use privacy screens or plants to create a more private space.
HOW MUCH DOES AN OUTDOOR SHOWER COST?
Outdoor showers can range in price from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand, depending on the type of shower you choose and the features you want. Solar outdoor showers tend to be the most affordable option, while attached outdoor showers are typically the most expensive.
Factors that will affect the cost of your shower include:
- The type of shower you choose – freestanding, solar, or attached.
- The materials you choose – metal, plastic, wood, etc.
- The features you want – a simple shower head or a complete shower system with multiple heads and body jets.
- The size of the shower – a small shower for one person or a large shower that can accommodate multiple people.
- The installation – whether you install the shower yourself or hire a professional.
HOW DO I INSTALL AN OUTDOOR SHOWER?
Outdoor showers can be installed in a few different ways:
Portable Outdoor Showers – Portable outdoor showers can be placed on any level surface and do not require any plumbing. Just be sure to place your shower in an area where it will get plenty of sun exposure.
Attached Outdoor Showers – Attached outdoor showers require some plumbing and must be attached to a water source. Be sure to hire a professional if you are not comfortable doing the installation yourself.
Solar Outdoor Showers – Solar outdoor showers are the easiest to install as they do not require any plumbing. Just be sure to place your shower in an area where it will get plenty of sun exposure.
In-ground Outdoor Showers – In-ground outdoor showers require some excavation and must be attached to a water source. Be sure to hire a professional if you are not comfortable doing the installation yourself.
No matter which type of shower you choose, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure proper installation.
