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A hot shower is one of life’s best small pleasures. But when you get your water bill each month, you might be wondering if you need to cut back. According to the EPA, showers account for about 17% of water usage in homes, and a family can use 40 gallons of water per day just from showering. Add in handwashing, washing the dishes, brushing teeth, and laundry, and it’s easy to see how water bills can rack up. Luckily, there are low-flow appliance options, including low-flow shower heads. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of using these shower heads to see if it’s a fitting switch for your household or as part of a shower remodel.
What Is a Low-Flow Shower Head?
A low-flow shower head is what its name indicates: it’s a shower head that uses a low flow of water, meaning that less water is released each time it’s in use.
With the Energy Policy Act of 1992, new shower heads must release no more than 2.5 gallons of water per minute. But low-flow shower heads work to beat that. Shower heads that have the WaterSense label must prove that they use no more than 2 gallons per minute, as well as meeting other strict standards. Some states, like California, Colorado and Vermont, have set their own rates for even lower water usage.
Shower heads aren’t the only appliances that have water-saving options. There are also low-flow toilets and faucets, using the same method.
Are Low-Flow Shower Heads Right for Me?
Low-flow shower heads have become increasingly popular as a means to conserve water and reduce utility bills, but like any technology, they come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. When considering this change, explore the pros and cons of low-flow shower heads, examining how they impact water usage, energy costs, and your overall shower experience. From the benefits of environmental sustainability and cost savings to potential issues with water pressure and user satisfaction, understanding these aspects is crucial for anyone considering making the switch to a low-flow shower head.
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Pros
- Cost Savings
- Reduced Water Usage
- Water Pressure
- Price
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Cons
- Fast to Cool
- Water Pressure
- Limited Coverage
Pros of Low-Flow Shower Heads
Cost Savings
The biggest draw to switching to a low-flow shower head is that homeowners will see a decrease in their monthly water bills as well as their electric bill. That’s because less energy is used to heat the water, so you’re actually saving money in two areas.
Cut Down on Water
Since this shower head uses less water, your household is being less wasteful. Shower heads that have the WaterSense label can help a home use 2,700 gallons less of water per year, according to the EPA.
Good Water Pressure
A low-flow shower head might use less water, but that doesn’t mean you’ll have a low-pressure shower. Newer models use smaller holes, or apertures, as well as air to create that high-pressure experience. When purchasing a shower head, double check that you can adjust the pressure.
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Price
There are different models and designs for low-flow shower heads to meet different price ranges. You can purchase one for less than $20 on Amazon, or splurge on a rainfall shower head for almost $200.
Cons of Low-Flow Shower Heads
No appliance is perfect, and there are some drawbacks to using a low-flow shower head:
Fast to Cool
Since these shower heads mix the water with the surrounding air, it can cause the water to cool down quickly. There can also be a delay in warming the water, so a fast shower might not be as satisfying.
Poor Water Pressure
Yes, there are models that can be adjusted to increase the water pressure in your shower head, but some don’t. That’s why it’s important to check the details on any shower head you’re considering before you buy it.
Limited Coverage
Low-flow shower heads often provide limited coverage, offering a narrower water stream compared to traditional shower heads. This can lead to a less satisfying shower experience, as it may require more movement to rinse effectively.
Planning a bigger shower remodel? Is your shower head decision part of a bigger change? Modernize can help!
Find the Right Contractor for Your Bathroom Remodeling Project
Whether you’re ready to begin your project now or need some expert advice, our network of contractors are here to help. With a few simple questions, we’ll find the best local professionals for you
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