Standard residential water pressure in the United States is between 45 and 55 pounds per square inch (psi). Lower water pressure can be increased by installing a high-pressure shower head.
Most low-flow showerheads have a rubber pressure-reducing valve (called a regulator) to maintain a lower pressure. You can increase the flow by simply taking it out. You could also consider enlarging the hole that allows water into your showerhead with a drill to increase the amount of water coming through.
But when it comes to upgrading your shower routine to make it feel a bit more special, think beyond just the products you're using — like changing out the hardware in the shower itself. Swapping out a run-of-the-mill shower head can make a huge difference when it comes to your time spent under the spray.
Sure, it's an annoying issue but it can also signal a larger plumbing problem. Low pressure in a shower can be caused by several issues such as a clogged showerhead, a worn-out mixing valve, closed valve, leaking pipe, or even a faulty water heater.
One of the simplest reasons for the lose of shower pressure is a blocked shower head. Shower heads accumulate mineral residue when the shower head is in use. Once the water has been shut off, over time these mineral deposits will bond together and create a limescale build up inside your pipes or shower head.
Low pressure in a shower can be caused by a number of issues such as a clogged up showerhead, a worn-out mixing valve, closed valve, leaking pipe, or even a faulty hot water heater.
Many people don't realize it, but shower heads should actually be replaced every 6 to 8 months. That's up to two times each year!
Pressure-Reducing Valve
Look on the main supply pipe near your water meter for a conical valve that has a bolt sticking out of the cone. To raise pressure, turn the bolt clockwise after loosening its locknut. Keep an eye on the gauge to make sure the pressure is within bounds, then retighten the locknut.
Your house has a main water valve, usually located near the meter; the valve controls the flow of water into your home's pipes. Find the valve and check to see if it's completely open. Opening a half-shut valve is one of the quickest ways for increasing home water pressure.
Generally, this is around 1-1.5 bar, although it can sometimes be more. The majority of taps and showers can be chosen with this kind of pressure.
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.
When shopping for shower heads, be sure to compare “apples to apples.” A 2.0 GPM shower head simply will not reproduce the flow rate of your old, 3.5 GPM shower head. Know the Laws. Depending on where you live, retailers may only sell shower heads with a maximum of 2.5 GPM, 2.0 GPM, or 1.8 GPM flow rate.
There are advantages to a new shower head. When you change fixtures, plan on changing the valve as well. Changing a valve is an advanced plumbing project. Having a professional install the valve will prevent water damage and repair costs.
Installing a new shower head is the quickest, cheapest and easiest way to make a meaningful change in your bathroom. In addition to improving your shower, you can save water and cut into your bills or make a style upgrade.
The Fire Hydrant Spa Shower Head Spa Plaza is a good replacement shower head that is designed to boost water pressure in low flow settings. It has a 4-inch face to provide wide coverage, and this enables the water to reach all parts of your body.
Hotel Anystream with Adjustable Showerhead
Featured in luxury resorts around the globe, the Speakman Hotel Showerhead is known for its legendary performance and unrivaled quality. Equipped with 50 full-coverage sprays and 8 center massage jets - this fixture is engineered to deliver a truly satisfying experience.
Differentiating Between Low Flow And High Flow Shower Heads
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. The step down from there in Flow Rate is 2.0 GPM.
A simple way to increase the water pressure in the showerhead is to purchase a new shower head – they're inexpensive items – and look for the washer inside. This is designed to restrict the water flow, but you can widen this with a drill until the water flows properly.
A quick and easy way to increase water pressure is to adjust the pressure-reducing valve, which can be found in your home, usually close to your water meter.
Showerheads clog over time because of a buildup of mineral deposits—specifically calcium. You may notice water spraying out of the nozzle in random directions, part of your showerhead is completely clogged, or poor water pressure.
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.