Why do all shower heads have flow restrictors?

Author: Mr. Clifton O'Hara  |  Last update: Tuesday, January 2, 2024

Two big reasons: To help lower utility bills -- and to conserve water. According to the EPA, the average family could save 2,700 gallons per year by installing WaterSense labeled showerheads. Since these water savings will reduce demands on water heaters, they will also save energy.

Is it OK to remove water restrictor from shower head?

For water conservation purposes, most plumbing codes require faucets and showering devices to not exceed a certain maximum flow rate. Removing the flow restrictors could cause these devices to no longer meet these codes.

Why do shower heads have flow restrictors?

By managing water flow, a flow restrictor prevents built-up pressure from damaging pipes, appliances, and fixtures. Not only do flow regulators save you money by decreasing damage to appliances, but they also save water in lines with high pressure.

Does every shower head have a flow restrictor?

Do All New Shower Heads Have Flow Restrictors? Not all new shower heads come with flow restrictors. While many brands focus on water and energy efficiency, it's not a universal feature. So, before you make a purchase, it's a good idea to check the specifications and ensure they fit your needs.

Are high flow shower heads illegal?

National standard of maximum 2.5 gpm flow rate for shower heads was established through the Energy Policy Act (EPAct) of 1992 in order to save water. If the state, county or city of residency does not specify a maximum flow rates for shower heads, a 2.5 gpm shower head is the maximum one can get.

Water Flow Restriction vs. Flow Regulation

Which is better 2.5 GPM or 1.75 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.

What states have shower head restrictions?

3. What are some state and local government limits on GPM?
  • New York, Massachusetts, Colorado, Maine, and Vermont require new shower heads to have a maximum GPM of 2.0. Rhode Island will be joining that list in 2023.
  • California, Washington, Oregon, and Hawaii set their max at 1.8 GPM for modern shower heads.

How much water does a shower head use without restrictor?

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.

How do I increase the flow of my shower head?

Depending on your current flow rate, you may be able to increase the flow simply by removing the filter or restricting device or replacing the showerhead with a higher-flow model, such as increasing to a standard 2.5 GPM head. Before you change the showerhead, make sure that the new model is legal in your area.

Is higher GPM better for shower head?

Know the Impact.

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.

Does a flow restrictor increase pressure?

Flow restrictors only allow a set amount of water to flow to the shower head, no matter how much water is flowing through your pipes. If you have low water pressure in your home or building, this can mean even lower pressure in your shower.

Is removing water restrictor illegal?

Removing a flow restrictor is illegal according to the US Energy Policy Act of 1992, which limits the maximum shower water flow rate to 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM).

What does a shower head flow restrictor look like?

The center of the restrictor is shaped like a star, or similarly shaped, and comes in a variety of colors. It's found behind where the shower head screws off of the pipe coming out of the wall or at the end of the flexible hosing of a handheld shower head.

Why is my shower head not powerful enough?

If you're experiencing low shower pressure, take these initial steps to find out what could be causing the problem: First, clean your showerhead thoroughly. Ensure the shower hose isn't kinked or damaged, then check the filter. This might require taking your shower apart, so consider asking a professional to help.

Why does my new shower head have low pressure?

If you've just installed a brand-new showerhead and find that the pressure is suddenly lower, it's probably because you've purchased a water-saving showerhead. Check the labels around the rim, or perform the showerhead GPM test as described below.

Why is my shower head so weak?

Leaky, corroded and clogged pipes can lead to low water pressure in the shower. The showerhead might be so old it needs to be replaced. The shower controls could also be responsible for flow issues.

What shower head gives the most water pressure?

Time is fleeting.
  • Speakman, Polished Chrome S-2005-HB Hotel Anystream High Pressure Shower Head-2.5 GPM Adjustable Replacement Bathroom Showerhead. ...
  • Speakman S-2252 Signature Icon Anystream Adjustable High Pressure Shower Head-1.75 GPM Solid Brass Replacement Bathroom Showerhead, Polished Chrome, 2.5.

What are the disadvantages of water saving shower heads?

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.

What is a good flow rate for a shower?

A flow rate between 10 and 15 litres per minute is considered acceptable but can be improved. A flow rate that is above 15 litres per minute will be regarded as good.

What is the smallest shower allowed by code?

Shower floor minimum size is usually mandated to be at least 30 inches square; that is, 30 inches by 30 inches. Shower door clearance: Because shower doors are usually glass and can break and because of other access issues, bathroom code states that shower doors need to have at least 24 inches of opening clearance.

Why can't shower heads be delivered to California?

Because California has flow-rate laws for sinks and showers, to save water, and this one didn't pass. Time for a road trip to Nevada or a friend in another state to get it and forward it to you.

How many GPM is a standard shower head?

Did you know that standard showerheads use 2.5 gallons of water per minute (gpm)? Water-saving showerheads that earn the WaterSense label must demonstrate that they use no more than 2.0 gpm.

Is it better to have higher PSI or GPM?

Higher GPM will help you get the job done faster. For most homeowners, identifying your ideal PSI (whether low or high) is a good start. Once you have the PSI you need, then look for higher GPM numbers to get better efficiency.

Previous article
What is the lifespan of quartz countertops?
Next article
How far past the window should the curtain rod extend?