Founder | BPI® Energy Auditor Certified Professional
It’s undeniable that water scarcity is becoming a growing concern, making it more imperative than ever to use water wisely.
Low-flow shower heads are designed to conserve water by reducing the water used during each shower.
However, how do these laudable gadgets attain this seemingly complex goal without compromising how long you can shower?
This article aims to dispel common misunderstandings about low-flow shower heads.
It will discuss how these devices preserve hot water, the ways in which they conserve water, and the significant amount they can save.
We will also provide insightful suggestions to aid in selecting the ideal low-flow shower head.
So, let’s get into it!
Do Low-Flow Showerheads Make Hot Water Last Longer?
Low-flow shower heads make hot water last longer by reducing the flow from a standard 2.5 gallons (9.5 liters) per minute to an impressive 2 gallons (7.57 liters) per minute or less.
And you guessed it – since less water is coming out, that means your hot water lasts that much longer.
A side benefit leads to substantial savings of up to 40% on your water bill and a noticeable decrease in energy costs as well.
To be considered a low-flow shower head, the water flow rate must be below two gallons (7.6 liters) per minute and bear the WaterSense label, a quality assurance certification from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
These shower heads are created in collaboration with various stakeholders, including consumers, to guarantee adequate shower spray force and intensity.
Some high-efficiency shower heads have even lower flow rates of around 1.7 gallons (6.4 liters) per minute.
Families can save hundreds of gallons of water each year using eco-friendly, low-flow shower heads.
The maximum flow rate per minute for shower heads was established by the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to be 2.5 gallons (9.5 liters) per minute (7.57 Lpm). This figure means a standard shower head can consume up to 10 gallons (37.9 liters) of water for a single four-minute shower.
This rate translates to thousands of gallons of water per year in a household of four people.
For those using older shower heads from the ’90s, with flow rates as high as 3.5 gallons (13.2 liters) per minute, the water consumption is even higher.
How Much Can a Home Save With a Low-Flow Shower Head?
According to the EPA, the average family uses 14,400 gallons (54,500 liters) of water by showering yearly.
But, since showers are a necessary part of life, a low-flow shower head offers a more sustainable solution.
By using a low-flow unit, the average family’s water consumption can drop to 11,700 gallons (44,289 liters) per year, saving up to 2,700 gallons (44,300 liters). Of course, this translates to monetary savings, as well.
By paying only $0.00295 per gallon of water, a low-flow shower head can help you save up to $100 annually on showering expenses, not to mention the energy savings that come with it.
A low-flow shower head is an intelligent choice for your wallet and the environment.
If you’re interested in discovering more about how you can make a difference and conserve resources, read this article.
How Do You Know If a Showerhead Is Low-Flow?
Unfortunately, not all businesses have the consumer’s best interests at heart.
There are many shower heads labeled “low-flow,” “green,” and “eco-friendly” that do not actually live up to their claims.
Two key things to look for to ensure you’re purchasing a genuinely water-efficient shower head include:
WaterSense Accreditation
Don’t be fooled by the shape or size of a shower head.
To guarantee its water efficiency, look for the WaterSense label from the EPA, which certifies highly water-efficient products.
If you’re unfamiliar with shower heads, ask about the WaterSense label to ensure you get an authentic, low-flow product.
The Time Test
Another way to test if a shower head is truly low-flow is by monitoring its flow rate.
Do the following:
- Place a one-gallon (3.8-liter) container under the shower.
- Turn the shower on.
- Record how long the container takes to fill.
A low-flow shower head should take at least 30 seconds to fill the container.
By following these two steps, you can protect yourself from being scammed and ensure you’re buying a deucedly water-efficient shower head.
How To Choose the Best Low-Flow Shower Head
When selecting the best low-flow shower head, you must consider several factors to ensure you get the best option for your particular needs.
Here are three key considerations to keep in mind:
Budget
Your budget is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a low-flow shower head.
While high-end models are available, it’s possible to find a quality low-flow unit for anywhere between $50 and $100.
Bathroom Style
It’s also important to consider your bathroom style when choosing a low-flow shower head.
You’ll want to find a unit that matches the following when it comes to your bathroom decor:
- Design
- Finish
- Color
Low-flow shower heads are available in various sizes and shapes as well as the following materials:
- Brass
- Gold-coated
- Stainless steel
- Cast iron
- Ceramic
More expensive models – such as those that are gold-coated or made from brass or stainless steel – will likely be pricier than cast iron or ceramic shower heads.
Personal Preference
The most important factor when choosing a low-flow shower head is your personal preference.
You’ll want to consider the type of water delivery you want, such as:
- Rain shower head
- Handheld shower head
- Combination shower head
- Slide-bar shower head
Take the time to research and try out different options to determine which type is best for your needs and desired shower experience.
Are There High-Pressure Low-Flow Showerheads?
In the early days of low-flow models, one of the biggest complaints was their low water pressure and weak stream.
However, the solution to this problem was soon discovered by aerating the water.
By bulking up the water and directing it through a smaller opening, modern low-flow shower heads can mimic the high pressure of traditional models while using less water.
The result is a water-saving shower experience that still provides a satisfying massaging effect.
The only downside to aeration is that it can slightly lower the water temperature. Still, with proper functioning, the temperature loss is minimal.
Tips for Optimizing Hot Water Efficiency
Optimizing hot water efficiency is crucial for both energy conservation and cost savings.
Here are some tips to help you optimize your low-flow shower head’s hot water.
- Insulate hot water pipes: Insulating hot water pipes helps retain heat and prevents heat loss as water travels through the pipes. Therefore, hot water stays hot, reducing the need to run the shower for an extended period to get hot water.
- Set the water heater temperature: Many water heaters are set at higher temperatures than necessary. Lowering the temperature to around 120°F (48.89°C) can significantly reduce energy consumption without compromising comfort. Be cautious not to set it too low, as this might lead to bacterial growth in the water heater.
- Invest in a tankless water heater: Tankless water heaters, or on-demand water heaters, heat water only when it’s needed. This is an excellent way to conserve energy.
- Fix leaks promptly: Repair any leaks in your hot water system promptly. Beesides wasting water, leaks reduce the efficiency of your water heater, leading to increased energy consumption.
- Install a water heater blanket: Insulate your water heater with a blanket to reduce heat loss. This helps maintain the temperature of the stored water. Therefore, you’ll need less energy to keep the water hot and readily available.
Final Thoughts
As the world becomes more conscious of the need to conserve water resources, low-flow shower heads have emerged as a popular and effective solution.
These devices are designed to reduce water consumption while providing an enjoyable showering experience.
By using a low-flow unit, you can save up to 40% on your water and energy bills, making it a smart choice for anyone looking to reduce their environmental footprint and save money.
With the affordability of low-flow shower heads, there’s no reason not to switch and embrace this eco-friendly, cost-effective option for your daily shower routine. The environment and your water bill will thank you!