Imagine this: you’re finally moving to a new house, excited about the fresh start. As you’re packing, you spot your trusty shower head. The one you bought specifically for salty water, because your old house depended on borehole water. Now, here’s the curveball: your new home uses fresh water. You’re left wondering—can this shower head still work, or should you just bite the bullet and get a new one?
Nobody wants to deal with the pain of installing a shower head only for it to fail spectacularly after the first use. Trust me, it’s like pouring money down the drain. So, let’s clear up the confusion once and for all. Is it safe to use a salty-water shower head with fresh water? And what are the best shower head for fresh water in Kenya? Stick around—we’ve got answers.
Understanding Water Types: Fresh Water, Salty Water, and Hard Water
Before diving in, let’s first break down the types of water. Knowing what’s flowing through your pipes can save you plenty of frustration—and cash.
Fresh Water
This is water with very low salt and mineral content. It’s what most of us use in urban areas, sourced from rivers, reservoirs, or municipal water supplies. In Kenya, fresh water is typical in urban homes supplied by city councils or large-scale water projects like Ndakaini Dam.
Salty Water
Salty water is loaded with dissolved salts. Think borehole water, coastal regions, or places with high saline levels like Mombasa or Kilifi. Salty water is harsh on standard plumbing fixtures, causing corrosion, and can even ruin appliances over time. It’s common in rural areas where people rely on untreated water sources.
Hard Water
Hard water has a high concentration of minerals like calcium and magnesium. While it’s not as damaging as salty water, it’s notorious for leaving scale buildup—that white crusty stuff you might notice on taps, kettles, and shower heads. Areas like Machakos and parts of Nairobi often have hard water.
So, Can You Use a Shower Head for Salty Water in Fresh Water?
The short answer? Yes, you can. Shower heads designed for salty water are built with sturdy, corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel or ABS plastic. This makes them more than capable of handling fresh water. Think of it as buying a rugged, all-terrain vehicle—it can handle smooth roads just fine too. In fact, salty-water shower heads may last longer when used with fresh water because the conditions are less harsh.
That said, always double-check the manufacturer’s instructions or ask the seller to confirm compatibility. While most models are flexible, there may be specific features designed exclusively for salty water.
Now, the reverse situation? Not so rosy. Using a shower head for fresh water with salty water is a recipe for disaster. Corrosion and mineral buildup will ruin the shower head in no time, leaving you back at square one.
Best Shower Heads for Fresh Water in Kenya
If your home has fresh water, you’re in luck! The market is flooded with options that cater specifically to fresh water needs. Here are six shower heads to consider, from affordable picks to premium ones:
1. Enerbras Shower Head (KES 1,600 – KES 3,500)
- What It Offers:
- Works with normal, salty, and hard water.
- Available in 3 or 4 temperature settings.
- Why It’s a Winner: This versatile option is affordable and durable, perfect for Kenyan households looking for something reliable and easy to install.
- Extra Details: It has a robust heating element that works well even with low water pressure. Maintenance is straightforward, making it ideal for everyday use.
- Where to Get It: Skywave
2. Wateria Wall Mount Instant Water Heater with Pump (KES 6,500 – KES 7,500)
- Features:
- Instant water heating.
- Built-in pump to improve water pressure.
- Why You’ll Love It: Ideal for homes with low water pressure. Its wall-mount design adds a sleek, modern look to your bathroom.
- Extra Details: The built-in pump ensures consistent water flow, making it suitable for apartments with weaker plumbing systems.
- Where to Find It: Skywave
3. Livinox Water Heater (LWH-TS-E) (KES 7,800)
- Highlights:
- Energy-efficient design.
- Compact and stylish.
- What’s Special: A great fit for fresh water and small bathrooms, offering fast heating and consistent performance.
- Extra Details: It comes with a safety cut-off feature that prevents overheating, ensuring longevity and user safety.
- Available At: Skywave
4. Midea Electric Tankless Water Heater (DSK45P3) (KES 8,500)
- Specs:
- Tankless instant heating.
- Built-in pump for improved water flow.
- Why It Stands Out: Fast, efficient, and reliable, this shower head is designed to offer a steady flow of hot water without waiting.
- Extra Details: The compact, tankless design saves space and reduces energy consumption, making it eco-friendly and budget-conscious.
- Shop Here: Tungsten
5. Lorenzetti Acqua Storm Ultra (KES 9,500)
- Features:
- Ultra-modern design.
- Multiple temperature settings.
- Why Choose It: It’s both functional and stylish—a solid choice for fresh water homes.
- Extra Details: Its sleek design makes it a statement piece for bathrooms, while the durable build ensures longevity even with daily use.
- Get It At: Tungsten
6. Enerbras 4T Enershower Instant Shower (KES 11,000)
- What It Brings:
- Four temperature settings.
- Durable, all-water compatibility.
- Why It’s Premium: Built to last and works with any water type—a good investment for long-term use.
- Extra Details: It’s engineered for maximum efficiency and has a high-quality finish that resists wear and tear.
- Find It At: Skywave
Quick Tips for Choosing the Right Shower Head
- Ask Questions: Don’t be shy—ask the seller if the shower head works with your water type.
- Read the Fine Print: Always check the manufacturer’s specs for details on compatibility and performance.
- Know Your Budget: There’s something for everyone, from budget-friendly to high-end. Compare features to get the best value.
- Think Ahead: If you might move to an area with salty water, invest in a versatile option now.
- Water Pressure Matters: For low-pressure areas, choose a shower head with a built-in pump for better performance.
- Maintenance is Key: Regular cleaning with descaling solutions or vinegar keeps your shower head in top shape and prevents clogs.
Personal Thought
Here’s the deal: using a salty-water shower head in fresh water is perfectly fine in most cases. Just make sure it’s compatible by checking the specs or asking a trusted seller. Kenya offers plenty of options for a shower head for fresh water—all you need is to pick one that fits your needs and budget. And remember, investing in the right shower head saves you from the frustration of costly mistakes and ensures a luxurious shower every time.
FAQs
How do I maintain my shower head?
Soak it in vinegar or a descaling solution to keep it running smoothly.
Why does my shower head clog so quickly?
Blame it on mineral buildup or corrosion. Regular cleaning helps.
Which shower head is best for borehole water?
Enerbras shower heads are an excellent choice—they’re built to handle salty and hard water.
What’s the difference between hard and salty water?
Hard water has more minerals like calcium and magnesium. Salty water has… well, salt!
Can I use a fresh water shower head in salty water?
Nope! Salty water can corrode it in no time.