Front loading filter showerhead and method

A showerhead configured to enable easy access to an internal filter, the showerhead comprising:

• a filter configured to remove impurities from fluid flowing therethrough;
• a showerhead body extending around a body axis, the showerhead body comprising:
• a filter cavity disposed about the filter axis and having an open end adapted to receive at least a portion of the filter;
• an inlet fluidly connectable to a fluid source and in fluid communication with the filter cavity;
• a sprayer portion in fluid communication with the filter cavity and defining a spray pattern;
• and
• an engagement element extending at least partially around the filter axis;
• and
• a cap configured to be releasably securable to the engagement element of the filter housing, the cap being configured to conceal the filter when the filter is at least partially received in the filter cavity and the cap is secured to the engagement element.

A method of placing a water filter within a showerhead, the method comprising the steps of:

• inserting a water filter into a filter cavity of a filter housing, the filter housing comprising:
• a generally cylindrical side wall forming the filter cavity having a generally circular open end adapted to receive at least a portion of the filter;
• an inlet fluid connectable to a fluid source and in fluid communication with the filter cavity;
• and
• an engagement element;
• the filter housing being coupled to a spray housing in fluid communication with the filter housing and having a center opening in alignment with the generally circular open end of the filter housing;
• and
• securing a cap adapted to be releasably securable to the engagement element of the filter housing opening to retain and conceal the water filter in the filter cavity.