Switching to an Eco Shower Head: Are Low Flow Shower Heads Worth It?

Are low flow shower heads worth it? How much water is saved with each use? Are they easy to install? Find out the pros and cons of installing an eco shower head in your house.

What Is It Like to Take a Low Flow Shower?

First, functionality. Low flow shower heads use significantly less water due to reduced water pressure. The greater the pressure, the more water that is pushed through the head per minute. A conventional model will use 5 to 8 gallons per minute while an

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 eco-friendly shower head will use between .5 and 2.5 gallons per minute. So, that means you may be cutting your shower usage in half at the very least, just because of a low flow shower head. Cut your shower time by one or two minutes and turn down the temperature on your water heater and you are making serious strides towards reducing your carbon footprint and utility bills.

What about the actual performance? A high-quality eco-friendly shower head will still deliver a respectable flow of water making this a wise green living move. They use aeration to work, which means that air is mixed with the water to create an even, substantial water pressure. Actual water temperatures may cool because of this. Also, a better quality low flow shower head will be self cleaning, which means it is less likely that mineral deposits will clog up the shower head.

A very inexpensive model may not deliver in energy and water savings, or a good shower. If mineral deposits form, then the head becomes clogged, resulting in poor flow and a longer shower. Non-aerating shower heads limit water use by blocking it. This can also lead to sediment build-up, and eventually a poor performance. It is possible to clean your shower head with vinegar to help prevent mineral deposits.

Installation and Cost of Eco Shower Heads

Installing an eco-friendly model is relatively simple. You should be able to unscrew an old head and then install your new, water-saving model. How much do low flow shower heads cost? They run from around $5 to $80 dollars. By using less water eco shower heads will eventually pay for themselves through savings in energy costs.

What are the pros of switching to a low flow shower head? Less water use and lower energy bills. What are the cons? Depending on which model you use the performance may be less than what you are expecting, leading to longer showers and high water use anyway. Choose a good model, read the manufacturers directions and install it correctly, and make your eco head worth it.