Shower system

Water budget

A 1.5 GPM head uses 7.5 gal in five continuous minutes. A trigger head and navy shower can cut this drastically, but frequent shutoff must not destabilize the heater or create temperature spikes.

Wet-area build

Use a rigid, supported pan; continuous waterproofing; sealed penetrations; serviceable mixer; and a drain that works at imperfect parking angles. Test the enclosure before finished cabinetry.

Moisture

Vent during and after use. Dry walls, curtain/door and pan. A shower adds humidity that can condense inside cold metal cavities even when the visible stall looks dry.

Cold and outdoor use

Exterior mixers, hoses and heads freeze first. Give them isolation and drain-back or remove them. Outdoor showers also require privacy, soap/runoff judgment and local compliance.

Build rule

If you cannot reach it, isolate it, drain it and explain its pressure/temperature or water-quality job, it is not ready to hide behind a wall.

CHAPTER CHECK

• I can explain the purpose and failure mode of each item in this chapter. • I know which manufacturer limit or water-quality claim controls my choice. • I added the valve, access, drain, measurement or maintenance task to my drawing/checklist.