What is better, 1.8 or 2.5 gpm shower head?

Author: Vern Herzog IV  |  Last update: Thursday, August 7, 2025

When it comes to Shower Heads, you'll typically find 2.5 GPM, 2.0 GPM, 1.8 GPM and 1.5 GPM. If you're looking for the most pressure, go for the 2.5 GPM Flow Rate, unless you are restricted because you reside in California, Colorado or New York. Again, this has been the Maximum Flow Rate since 1992.

Is it better to have a lower or higher GPM shower head?

Personal Preference: Some people may prefer a higher flow rate for a more robust shower experience. It's a good idea to test the showerhead if possible to ensure it meets your preferences. Overall, a showerhead with a flow rate of 1.8 gpm is generally a good choice for balancing water usage and comfort.

Is 1.8 gpm good for a shower head?

A: It depends on how low the water pressure is. If it is above 30 psi either the 1.8 gpm or 1.5 gpm flow rates will work fine. If it is as low as 25 psi I recommend the 1.8 gpm model.

What is the difference between 1.8 gpm and 2.5 gpm?

A standard 2.5 GPM shower head uses 2.5 gallons of water each minute. That's 25 gallons for a 10-minute shower. VS. A low-flow 1.8 GPM shower head uses 1.8 gallons of water each minute.

What is the best flow rate for a shower head?

Studies have shown that 1.8 gpm is the minimum flow rate to have a good enjoyable rinsing, so the common 1.75 gpm models, is somewhat good enough for a decent shower. To save water further and still have a full enjoyable rinsing experience.

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Which is better, 2.5 gpm or 1.75 gpm?

2.5 GPS shower heads have higher water pressure than 1.75 GPS shower heads, so they have more coverage than other options. For example, people with disabilities need better coverage to reach the bench behind the shower.

What is the flow rate of a powerful shower?

Ideal Flow Rates for Needs: For an effective showering experience, including tasks like rinsing thick hair or enjoying a powerful body shower, a flow rate closer to 8-10 litres per minute is ideal, while more economical models might operate at about 6 litres per minute.

Is 2.5 gpm enough for a shower?

Standard shower heads use 2.5 gpm, but to earn the WaterSense label, a product must use no more than 2 gpm and still meet strict performance requirements. The EPA estimates that the average family could save 2,900 gallons of water per year by installing a WaterSense-labeled shower head.

How many GPM is recommended?

For most single-family homes, a minimum flow of 6 GPM is suggested from a well or spring. This flow would provide 360 gallons of water each hour, which would be sufficient to meet most home water peak demands.

Does a bigger shower head mean less pressure?

Not necessarily. While it is true that larger (rain or dual) shower heads may distribute the water over a larger area, leading to a softer spray, there are many shower heads specifically designed for low water pressure that can provide a powerful and invigorating shower experience.

Is 1.8 gpm good for a kitchen faucet?

As of 2020, all kitchen faucets sold in stores have to have a standard flow rate of 1.8 gallons per minute (gpm) or less, and bathroom faucets must use 1.2 gpm or less. Check for the flow rate in the product details or specifications if you buy one online. Replace any faucets or aerators that use more than 2.2 gpm.

How many gpm of hot water does a shower use?

These days, the average US shower uses 2.5 gallons per minute and lasts for 8 minutes (click here to for how much a running toilet uses). While that measure is in keeping with current federal standards, it still accounts for far more water usage than is good for the environment or your property's budget.

How much water pressure is needed for a rain shower head?

Some shower heads, particularly rainfall designs, may require up to 3 bars of pressure to operate, when the average household water pressure is just 1 bar.

What are the disadvantages of low-flow shower heads?

Disadvantages of Low-flow Shower Heads

Weakened Water Flow Pressure: Low-flow shower heads often achieve water conservation by limiting water flow, which can result in weaker water flow pressure. This weak flow of water may be uncomfortable for people who are used to powerful showers.

How many GPM does a kitchen faucet use?

How much water per minute does a faucet use? The average flow rate for faucets is between 1.0 gpm and 2.2 gpm. In the US, the maximum flow rate for kitchen and bathroom faucets is 2.2 gpm at 60 psi. In more environmentally regulated areas, the maximum flow rates are further restricted.

What is the best brand for shower heads?

Our Top Picks
  • Best Classic: Delta Faucet H2Okinetic Raincan Shower Head at Amazon $129. Jump to Review.
  • Best Dual Option: Better Homes & Gardens Chandler Combo Showerhead at Walmart $49. Jump to Review.
  • Best Rain Shower Head: Delta Faucet HydroRain H2Okinetic Dual Shower Head at Amazon $298. Jump to Review.

Do you want a high or low GPM?

The higher the GPM, the faster your job will be completed, such as dealing with a buildup of mud, dirt, and debris that needs to be flushed away. Examples of applications where the GPM value is generally more important than PSI ratings include, but are not limited to: Janitorial work.

What is the ideal water pressure for a house?

It's important to maintain your home's water pressure within an acceptable range. The ideal water pressure ranges between 40 and 80 pounds per square inch, with the recommended home water pressure at 60 psi.

Is 2.5 GPM low flow?

Unfortunately, there is no firm definition of low-flow, but it's generally accepted that anything using 1.5 gallons per minute (gpm) or less is considered “ultra low flow,” while anything using 2.5 gallons per minute to 1.5 gallons per minute is considered “low flow.” Nowadays, thanks to standards set by the government ...

How to get more GPM from shower head?

If your shower's GPM flow rate needs improvement, use these methods to increase the water pressure in your shower.
  1. Turn Off Water-Using Appliances. ...
  2. Shower During Off-Hours. ...
  3. Check the Valves. ...
  4. Unkink or Replace the Shower Hose. ...
  5. Clean the Showerhead. ...
  6. Replace the Showerhead. ...
  7. Replace the Shower Valve. ...
  8. Inspect and Replace the Pipes.

What is a good flow rate for a power shower?

Power showers are also electric but simply pump and control the hot & cold supplies, the hot water being heated by the household water heating system. They require only limited electricity. Typical flow rate 12 to 14 litres per minute.

What is a good flow rate for a rain shower head?

Usually, a typical shower head flow rate is anywhere between 1.5 GPM and 3.7 GPM, while a shower system with massage body jets and rainfall shower head with waterfall shower head gpm will be around 3.8 GPM.

What is the most efficient shower head flow rate?

Each label provides details on the water flow rate in litres per minute alongside a star rating. Opting for a shower head with a minimum 3-star rating, which uses 9 litres or less per minute, is generally recommended.

What GPM shower head should I buy?

If you're looking for the most pressure, go for the 2.5 GPM Flow Rate, unless you are restricted because you reside in California, Colorado or New York.

Is a higher flow rate shower head better?

One person who showers 10 minutes per day with a 2.5 GPM shower head uses 9,125 gallons of water per year. Switching to a 2.0 GPM shower head saves more than 1,825 gallons of water and $25 per year in water and energy costs. Those numbers jump to 7,300 gallons and $100 in savings for a family of four.

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