Outdoor shower set up

Summer is fast approaching and one of the things I wish I built was an outdoor shower for my kids! But the idea passed by as I was too busy swimming with my boys and the misus. So in the excellent tradition of hindsight and if onlys. I give you my dear workmates the opportunity to create the "Gold coast special" as my son called it.

Parts list :

2 x 20mm pvc pipes at 1 meter long each

1 x 20 mm gate valve

2 x 20 mm female couplers with one side with a male threaded end.

1 x 20mm 90 degree elbow

1 x 20mm 90 degree elbow with one end with a threaded female end.

1 x 20mm brass nipple.

1 x 20mm to 15mm brass nipple

1 x 20mm coupler with one side with a threaded female end.

Now I'm sure some of you creatives out there are thinking "I've got a better idea" by all means have at it! This is just a suggested lay out if you have a more creative approach don't let me stop you. Whats important is that we build it and enjoy it for the summer! Clip on the garden hose and enjoy!

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Comments

Brad

https://www.bunnings.com.au/hy-clor-9l-outdoor-shower_p0067195

Not as DIY but you get warm water and it comes in 3 sizes if this small one isn't big enough.

Jason

@redracer01

I'm a bit too soft to have a cold shower, even after a swim!

We weren't sure whether to install an outdoor shower as part of our games room and pool project but two years on have found we use it a lot. You can see it in the photos here - https://www.workshop.com.au/t5/Outdoor/Backyard-games-room-project/td-p/93/page/3

Jason

Did you ever get around to this project @redracer01?

I saw this project pop up in the media overnight - "epic outdoor Bunnings shower".

Looks really good.

Jason

BoeingFan

Love love love this... Have to try to pry open the wallet and successfully navigate the moth swarm... Outdoor shower here we come 😀

EricL

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/24325#Comment_24325

Hi @BoeingFan

If you have any questions about this project, please don't hesitate to ask. We'll be more than happy to provide advice and information.

Eric

OutdoorPaul

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/74807#Comment_74807

Hi EricL,

I’d love further info on the outdoor shower above. Parts list and/ or steps?

cheers

EricL

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/110008#Comment_110008

Hello @OutdoorPaul

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about outdoor showers.

Just a friendly reminder that any plumbing works must be carried out by a licensed plumber for safety and compliance.

If you are referring to the Merbau panelled shower and were wondering what the parts are, I've listed the parts below.

Here are the parts you'll need to duplicate the set-up:

The general description of the assembly is to attach the Brasshards 15C x 15MI Brass Compression Union LF to the top and bottom of the Kinetic 15mm Brass Lever Handle Water Ball Valve which allows you to link it to the copper pipe. The Brasshards 15C x 15C Brass Compression Elbow allows you to make a left and right turn to meet up to the Brasshards 15C x 15C x 15C Brass Compression Tee. The copper pipe that links to the middle of the T compression ends with the Brasshards 15C x 15MI x 70mm Brass Male Lugged Compression Elbow LF which is then linked to the Brasshards 15C x 15FI Brass Female Compression Union LF. Another copper pipe is added and ends with the Brasshards 15C x 15MI Male Brass Compression Elbow LF from which you attach your choice of rain shower head.

Begin by dry-fitting all copper and brass fittings before tightening, to ensure the layout aligns perfectly. Use a pipe cutter to achieve clean, square edges on your copper lengths. For all male-threaded brass fittings, apply thread seal (Teflon) tape to prevent leaks. Compression fittings should be hand-tightened first, then gently secured with a spanner—avoid over-tightening, as it can damage the olive or pipe.

Once your pipe layout is set, fix it to the timber panel using 15mm copper pipe saddle clips. These should be spaced evenly along the vertical and horizontal runs for stability. Pre-drilling pilot holes in the timber backing is recommended to avoid splitting or damaging the surface. Ensure the shower pipework is centred and symmetrical before final tightening.

When positioning the valves, mount the ball valve at a comfortable height for daily use, it serves as the main on/off tap. If you’re also using a gate valve, install it lower down as a master shut-off, particularly useful if connecting to a fixed water source like a garden tap or rainwater tank. Double-check that both valves are accessible and easy to turn when wet.

At the top, your copper pipe should terminate in a solid brass compression elbow that supports the rain shower head. Make sure this fitting is properly braced, consider adding an extra saddle clip close to the showerhead for support, especially if using a heavy brass fixture.

Your water connection will depend on the intended setup. For a simple solution, use a garden hose connected to a brass adaptor attached to the gate valve. For a more permanent installation, you can ask your plumber to hard-plumb the line or run it from a pumped rainwater tank.

Lastly, remember to perform regular maintenance checks. Inspect fittings each season for signs of corrosion or leaks and reapply oil or sealant to your timber components every 6–12 months, depending on weather exposure. This will keep your outdoor shower looking great and functioning well for years to come.

In regards to the Merbau panels, it is basically two vertical pieces placed on a flat surface and then you attach horizontal pieces to your preferred length. A trimmed off piece of Merbau is used as a frame for the entire assembly. Once assembled it is mounted to the wall. The same general assembly method is applied to the Merbau floor base just add pebbles for effect. The timber shower platform should sit over a generous bed of 20–40mm drainage gravel, which assists with water runoff. Underneath this, lay non-woven landscaping fabric to prevent soil or clay from clogging the gravel. This setup keeps feet dry and avoids pooling water below the base.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

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