Software
Houzz Logo Print
webuser_553263610

plumbing compatible question

5 years ago

I would like a Kohler shower system (shower head, wand) but I like the Delta body sprays. Are these two systems compatible? I haven’t checked with my plumber (we are doing a master bathroom renovation) bc I just started my search.
Just want to know if I can use both or stay with one system.
Thanks!

Comments (7)

  • 5 years ago

    Depends. One way to look at it would be all the separate parts of a system are 'compatible' if they are separate and connected with piping between them.

  • 5 years ago

    Also check with your local code enforcement, especially if you live in California. There will be a code for maximum shower head flow (it may vary from 1.8-2.5 gpm, depending on the city). However, in some cities when you install multiple spray capabilities they require you to use a valve that shuts off one flow when another comes on (e.g., shut off the shower when the body spray is running) so that the total flow stays within the maximum.

    Bruce

  • 5 years ago

    "I would like a Kohler shower system (shower head, wand) but I like the Delta body sprays. Are these two systems compatible?"

    Answering the question asked, yes. Most body sprays are 1/2" threaded fittings, and they are completely independent of the other fixtures (valves/shower head(s)) in the shower. Obviously you'll just want to make sure the different manufacturer's trim styles and finishes suit one another.

    But the others are correct. Depending on your locale, your AHJ may impose an overall maximum GPM flow based on all the heads that can be on at one time, and if you do have a lot of heads that can flow simultaneously, you may have to upsize the shower drain from a typical single 2" drain to either two 2" drains, or a single 3" drain.

    Good luck!

  • 5 years ago

    Thanks everyone! We are on a well system so no rules for the water usage.
    JuneKnow - why don’t people use them?

  • 5 years ago

    "Thanks everyone! We are on a well system so no rules for the water usage."


    Just some added info, that may or may not apply to you:


    It's not a water access issue. It's a code thing. Or it may be a code thing, depending on your locale. Example, CA typically has the most restrictive rules when it comes to water flow. Last time I worked out there, a shower in CA, to be code compliant, was limited to a maximum simultaneous flow of 1.8GPM from all heads in the shower. A single shower head in CA is restricted to a maximum of 1.8GPM.


    So in CA, plumbing four 0.5GPM body sprays on the same valve, where all can be used at the same time, would be a code violation as the 2GPM flow from the four body sprays exceeds the 1.8GPM allowed by code.


    You would not be able to plumb the shower so you could use the shower head at the same time any body sprays are being used. You could use a diverter valve and run EITHER the shower head (1.8GPM) OR three body sprays (0.5GPM each, 1.5GPM total), but not both at the same time.


    Most towns have a local AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction), generally the official you'd see in your town to get a building permit. Some don't. Some states or towns have more strict water usage restrictions than others. Some AHJ officials are strict with their knowledge, interpretation, and enforcement of code. Others, not so much.


  • 5 years ago

    We are in beautiful North Carolina so hopefully there won’t be an issue. Thank you for your in-depth answer!

  • 5 years ago

    Sue - re: the body sprays. We had them in a previous shower. They just aren't a practical thing for normal showering. We typically get in and get out and aren't hanging around to use body sprays. They were a total waste in our case, and an expensive plumbing job to accomplish. YMMV if you love taking long, luxurious showers.