Installing an outdoor shower can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. With some planning and the right materials, you can create an outdoor oasis to rinse off after a day at the beach or getting dirty while gardening. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to install an outdoor shower.
Choose a Location
When deciding where to put your outdoor shower, consider the following:
- Privacy – Pick a spot that is not visible from the street or neighbors. Use landscaping or fences to create a private oasis.
- Sunlight – For warmer water, locate the shower in an area that gets sunlight. However, also consider shade so the shower is comfortable to use.
- Proximity – Install the shower close to your home to make plumbing easier and reduce pipe costs. But not too close to wooden structures.
- Drainage – Ensure the ground slopes away from the home so water drains properly. Avoid pooling water.
- Access to water lines – Connecting to existing plumbing or water lines will save time and money during installation.
- Local building codes – Check with your local permit office for any requirements or restrictions.
Once you decide on the perfect spot, mark it off to visualize the footprint.
Choose a Shower Head
There are many types of shower heads designed for outdoor use. Consider the following when selecting yours:
- Material – Metal, plastic, or stainless steel. Stainless steel resists corrosion best.
- Flow rate – 2-2.5 gallons per minute is standard. Low-flow for water efficiency.
- Adjustable head – Swivel design makes it easy to aim the water stream.
- Spray settings – Options like full spray, pulsating massage, or rain shower.
- On/off switch – For easy water control. Leave it on for pets!
- Hose type – Hands-free hose hangs from the wall. Traditional hoses lay on the floor.
- Extra features – Some have speakers, lights, or shelving.
Find the features that fit your needs and budget. A standard metal shower head is sufficient for basic rinsing.
Pick Plumbing Parts
You will need a few specific plumbing parts for your outdoor shower installation:
- Shower valve – Mixes hot and cold water, controls flow. Get one suitable for outdoor use.
- Flexible hose – Connects the shower head to the valve (at least 5 ft).
- Pipe fittings – Elbows, tees, couplers to connect pipe sections.
- Galvanized piping – Use at least 1/2″ for good water pressure.
- Shut-off valves – For cold and hot water lines to easily turn on/off.
- Backflow preventer – Required in many areas to prevent contamination.
- Y-valve – Optional. Diverts water between shower head and a handheld sprayer.
Purchase parts that match your shower head style and adjust as needed during installation.
Install Shower Plumbing
With all your materials assembled, it’s time for installation. Follow these key steps:
1. Turn Off Water Supply Lines
Locate the shut-off valves for the cold and hot water lines you will connect the shower to. Turn them off before beginning.
2. Mount the Shower Head
Attach the shower head mounting bracket to wall studs, ensuring it is level. Then screw the shower arm into the bracket and attach shower head.
3. Install Shut-off Valves
Add new shut-off valves on the cold and hot water supply lines where you will make your shower connections.
4. Run Pipe to Shower Valve
Use galvanized piping to run hot and cold water lines underground from the shut-offs to the planned shower valve location.
5. Install Shower Valve
Attach the shower mixing valve to the pipes with fittings. Ensure valves are oriented correctly – hot on left, cold on right.
6. Connect Flexible Hose
Run the flexible stainless steel hose from the shower valve up to the shower head. Use tape to seal all connections.
7. Test Water Flow
Turn water back on slowly. Check for leaks. Test shower spray on full hot and full cold. Adjust as needed.
Be sure to call your local permit office if plumbing work requires an inspection or certification where you live. Enjoy your new outdoor shower!
Add Convenience Features
Once your shower is fully operational, consider adding features for an enhanced experience:
- Flooring – Add a stone, tile, or wooden platform for a finished look and to avoid mud.
- Curtain rod – Hang a shower curtain for privacy and to contain water spray.
- Rack – Install a shelf or hanging rack for shampoo, soap, towels, and robes.
- Mirror – A weatherproof mirror lets you check your appearance after showering.
- Lighting – Install lighting above or around the shower for evening showers or ambiance.
- Robe hooks – Place hooks nearby to hang wet towels, suits, or clothes.
- Planters – Strategically place planters to boost privacy without blocking sun.
- Storage bin – Use a deck box or bin to keep shower supplies organized and dry.
Add the amenities that make sense for how you will use your outdoor shower. Get creative and have fun making it your own!
Maintenance Tips
Follow these maintenance practices to keep your outdoor shower running smoothly:
- Inspect seals – Check for leaks and re-tape joints as needed each season.
- Flush lines – At the start of each season, flush lines to remove sediment.
- Clean debris – Keep drain area clear of leaves and debris so water drains properly.
- Inspect shower head – Make sure holes are clear of mineral deposits restricting flow.
- Check piping – Look for corrosion or damage. Replace old piping as needed.
- Test water temperature – Adjust mixing valve if needed to prevent scalding water.
- Drain pipes before freeze – Shut off water and allow lines to drain before the first freeze.
- Weatherproof shower head – Remove shower head and store indoors over winter in cold climates.
With proper care, your outdoor shower can provide years of reliable service. Be sure to winterize in colder climates to avoid freeze damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an outdoor shower cost?
The cost to install an outdoor shower ranges from $500 to $2,000 depending on the materials used and complexity of the project. Prefabricated kits are on the cheaper end while custom designed showers with tile and stone can get quite expensive.
What size pipe should you use?
1/2″ galvanized steel pipe is the most common for good water flow. 3/4″ can be used for longer pipe runs if water pressure is a concern. Avoid copper due to corrosion.
Can you use an indoor shower head outside?
Indoor shower heads will work temporarily outside but are not designed to withstand outdoor elements long-term. Using an outdoor-rated shower head will give you the most longevity.
Do you need a permit for an outdoor shower?
Permits are not always needed but requirements vary based on local plumbing codes. Check with your city permit office to see if any permits or inspections are required.
How do you heat an outdoor shower?
To heat the water for an outdoor shower, it must be connected to the existing hot water supply line from your home’s water heater, an electric or propane on-demand water heater, or a solar water heating system.
Conclusion
Installing an outdoor shower is a worthwhile project that can increase your home’s value and provide years of enjoyment. With proper planning and by following crucial installation steps, you can create your own outdoor oasis. Be sure to winterize and maintain your shower so it stays in tip-top condition. Get ready to take refreshing outdoor showers all summer long!