Facts About Low Flow Shower Heads
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, water use during showering or bathing represents 17 percent of all indoor household water use. Water flow and water pressure measurements determine the flow rate of a shower head. Low flow shower heads restrict the flow of water and reduce the amount of water used during a shower. Low flow shower heads benefit the environment while lowering homeowner's utility bills. Does this Spark an idea?
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Features
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Shower flow is measured in pounds per square inch, or psi, and the number of gallons per minute, or gpm. A shower head is considered low flow if its flow rate is at or below 2.5 gpm and 80 psi. Low flow shower heads are equipped with a flow restricting device that is built into the head itself that regulates the flow rate. More expensive low flow shower heads have devices that are accessible and can be adjusted to personal preference.
Types
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There are two basic types of low flow shower heads. An aerating low flow shower head produces a mist rather than a stream of water. An aerating shower head mixes the water with air to create steam. Aerating shower heads maintain a consistent flow rate and water pressure but may not accurately maintain temperature due to the air in the water. Non-aerating shower heads do not incorporate air into the flow and therefore produce a stream of water rather than mist or steam. Non-aerating shower heads typically maintain water temperature more effectively than aerating heads.
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Benefits
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Installing a low flow shower head in your home shower is one of the most effective ways to reduce water use and utility bills. Low flow shower heads can decrease consumption of water by 50 percent, a decrease that is likewise reflected in the utility bill. Reducing water use is also beneficial to the environment. Low flow shower heads are inexpensive, especially when compared to other energy-reducing options for a home, such as installing solar panels or purchasing energy efficient appliances.
Misconceptions
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A low flow shower head does not necessarily indicate that a shower will be of lower quality. Low flow shower heads are tested for coverage of water on the body and for intensity of spray. Water pressure is influenced by several factors, regardless of shower head type, including gravity and elevation in relation to the water source or tower.
Considerations
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Though any shower head with a flow rate below 2.5 gpm and 80 psi can be labeled low flow, the Environmental Protection Agency provides additional oversight for environmentally friendly products. The WaterSense seal is given by the EPA to shower heads that has passed through additional EPA screenings that test for efficiency as well as quality.
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References
- Photo Credit shower image by Ekaterina Shvigert from Fotolia.com
