
Check your local regulation and keep in mind that lower flow rates can still have high water pressure. Some locations such as New York and Colorado even require a GPM of 2.0 or lower, and California’s standard is 1.8 GPM or less. A showerhead with a lower flow rate will have more water efficiency, allowing you to save money on your next water bill. What to Know About Flow Rate & Water PressureĮach of these showerheads is rated with a flow rate-typically between 1.5 to 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM)-but you should know that flow rate isn’t quite synonymous with water pressure. Some high-tech options can even add music or aromatherapy to your daily routine. One of these great showerheads will likely work for your bathroom and showering preferences-from wide rainfall heads to two-in-one handheld designs. If not, you may run the risk of temperature shock with a low-flow shower head.Whether you’re completely renovating your bathroom or just need a quick, simple upgrade, don’t underestimate the power of a quality showerhead to turn everyday showers into a more luxurious experience. If you have an older valve in your home, it's also good to check to make sure it has automatic temperature compensation (ATC) that is compatible with the shower head (and not designed for a higher-flow rate).

If you’re using an existing shower valve, check with the manufacturer first to make sure it’s compatible with a low-flow shower head. Non-aerating shower heads force the water streams through smaller spray holes, allowing for more pressure and a stronger, pulsating effect. An aerated spray allows air to mix in the shower stream, providing consistent, softer water flow that cools a little faster.

Low-flow shower heads have two types: aerated and non-aerated flows. The EPA has a handy online search option that sorts through WaterSense-labeled shower heads by brand and flow rate. The easiest way to find a low-flow shower head is by looking for a WaterSense label, ensuring that the shower head uses no more than 2.0 GPM. What to Consider When Shopping for a Low-Flow Shower Head The WaterSense Label

If a low price is a top priority, consider the Delta Fundamentals Single-Setting Shower Head, or if you’re craving a little luxury, the Moen Aromatherapy Handshower will transform your bathroom. If you’re searching for a top-rated fixed shower head at a reasonable cost, it’s hard to beat the High Sierra Showerheads Classic PLUS. Here are the best low-flow shower heads, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious, guilt-free shower systems. Today, many states such as Colorado, California, and Vermont have already put into effect requirements that set the flow rate even lower - a trend that’s likely to continue. To meet demands, companies are producing a variety of truly “low-flow,” shower heads, giving more water-efficient choices to eco-conscious consumers. While many shower head manufacturers advertise “low-flow” products, they are, in fact, producing the standard maximum flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM) set by the Energy Policy Act in 1992. Installing a low-flow shower head can help reduce water consumption, and in turn, help save on energy and water bills. The EPA estimates that for the average family, showers account for nearly 17% of indoor water use, that’s nearly 40 gallons per day. However, as incredible as it feels, it’s also costly - both on the environment and on the wallet.

There’s nothing quite like a relaxing, hot shower after a long day’s work.
