Water Savings Archives - Page 2 of 2 -

Did you know that the average shower cost just under $0.60 (assuming an 8-minute shower)? If you're not using a low-flow showerhead you could be spending hundreds of dollars on wasted water and energy. There is no doubt in saying that low flow showerheads are one of the best ways to save water. They don't only improve the look of your bathroom but they also reduce water wastage. That being said if you don't purchase the right kind of low-flow showerhead, the amount of water coming out, could give you some post-purchase dissonance. The biggest thing you need to understand about showerheads is they are measured by flow or the number of gallons per minute (GPM). The higher the pressure, the more water that will be coming out. Keep in mind that this amount can vary based on the system you're connected to, and can vary from house to house. Benefits of Low-flow Showerheads Preserve The Environment- One of the best reasons to save water is that it helps to preserve the environment. The more you save water, the less that goes to waste. Not to mention the less you pay for the water. A decent low-flow showerhead can reduce water consumption by up to 40%. It also cuts down on carbon dioxide emissions. Since the demand for hot water is lessened, the amount of energy used is lower and results in lower CO2 dispersed into the air. Saves Energy- Showers can take energy to heat. The more water you use, the more energy needed to heat the water. By switching to a low flow showerhead you'll not only save money in water, but you'll save money in energy. Prevents The Price Inflation- If you waste water continuously, then it will eventually lead to water scarcity, which will cause price inflation. Reducing unnecessary water usage leaves more for everybody. The simple law of supply and demand kicks in, so abrupt price increases can be averted, by conserving. What is Considered Low-Flow? As the government does their best to help with the issue of water consumption, as of January of 1994, showerheads have been restricted to 2.5 gpm. This isn't to say there aren't showerheads that exceed this, it's just if you go to your local store, you'll only find showerheads with that gpm. Additionally, if you're so inclined you can alter the showerhead to release more water, as indicated in a famous Seinfeld episode. You can go a step further by installing what is considered "ultra low-flow showerheads" which is a showerhead that releases less than 2.5 gpm. No matter if you're switching to low-flow or ultra low-flow, you're doing you're part to make a difference. If you're undecided on which showerhead to get, below is a list of recommendations, that are leading the industry. Best Low-Flow Showerheads Anza 1) ANZA High-Pressure Handheld Shower Head - This is one of the most popular shower heads on the market and it has over 76 nozzles. The best thing is that all the nozzles are anti-clogging and provides a powerful, wider shower. It features ABS construction and to provide extreme durability, and an oil-rubbed finish for aesthetics. It's specially designed to work perfectly with both low and high water flow and installation is a snap. Check Amazon Price Here Features and Benefits 6-Spray Settings - providing just the right amount of spray coverage The high-pressure head shower provides powerful pressure and adequate flow to get a pleasant shower even at low water pressure and flow circumstances. Ball Joint Bracket (Adjustable) to get your perfect showering angle for maximum comfort. A 1-year warranty Waterpik 2) Waterpik High-Pressure Flexible Neck - Enjoy the ultimate in adjustability with this unique, flexible shower head. Featuring the patented Waterpik Flex Neck arm, the design makes it easy to adjust your shower height or spray angle in seconds. Move it up to add height for your shower, drop it down lower for children - or even to target the massage spray on your back. Check Amazon Price Here Features and Benefits Opti flow technology - every part of the shower head, from the inside out, is engineered to maximize water flow and force. The result? Powerful showers. Flex-neck - it lets you move the showerhead whereever you need. Great for cleaning and great for kids. No plumber needed - installation can be done without hiring a plumber. 6 spray settings - different settings allows for a more useful showerhead and a cleaner experience. Niagara Conservation 3) Earth Showerhead Niagara Conservation - If affordability is your top criteria, then this is the best option for you. As compared to other showerheads, it saves 20% in water usage. It features a 9-jet massage, you can adjust it from gentle to force. Equipped with a patented internal pressure compensator, the showerhead provides a consistent output and flow of water regardless of available water pressure. Check Amazon Price Here Features and Benefits Output of 2.0 gpm, saving you money and energy. A 72-inch hose, making cleaning and showering easy and efficient. 9 individual setting helps adjust the pressure to just the right amount. Moen 4) Moen 26009 Engage Magnetix - This is part of Moen's line of showerheads with a magnetic docking handheld showerhead. The chrome finish is aesthetically pleasing and fits well into any modern home. With a name like Moen, you know the showerhead is durable and of the highest quality. Check Amazon Price Here Features and Benefits 2.5 gpm making it a low-flow showerhead. 6 different settings to ensure the desired spray. 2 in 1 showerhead making the detachable shower piece easy to use and replace. Features a 5 foot hose to ensure ease of use, and ease of cleaning. High Sierra 5) High Sierra's Solid Metal Handheld Shower Head with Trickle Valve - Patented, water-saving nozzle collides water streams to make a drenching spray of large, high-energy droplets. Always clog-free and powerful, even with hard water or low water pressure. Check Amazon Price Here Features and Benefits The metal construction gives the look and feel of durability. No need to replace this showerhead anytime soon. The anti-clogging ensures cleaning will be simple and the desired spray comes out even. Available in 1.5 gpm, 1.8 gpm, and 2.0 gpm. A 72" durable hose for ease of use and ease of cleaning. What to Look for in Low-flow Showerheads Type of Showerhead There are different types of showerheads available in the market so before you make a purchase, you should figure out what type of showerhead will be perfect for you. Some of the most popular showerheads types are low-flow showerheads, rain showerheads, adjustable showerheads, handheld showerheads, and dual showerheads. First, you must identify your needs, then move forward. Spray Patterns Another key feature you should consider is the type of spray pattern you want. Though nowadays most showerheads offer different sprays in one, but still if you have a specific need, then you can check all different types and choose an exclusive one. These patterns include massage, rain, jet, full, and pause. Showerhead Finish You should check what finishing would be best for your bathroom. There are many finishing options, such as chrome, opaque, high-gloss, and more so choose one that will complement your bathroom. Installation Type For the most part, showerheads are wall-mounted, but there are some that could be ceiling mounted. Additionally, be sure you have the tool (s) to install the showerhead. Hiring a plumber is an option, but something as simple as these low-flow showerheads can be done in-house. Flow Rate Last but not least is the flow rate. As mentioned above any showerhead putting out 2.5 gpm is considered low-flow. Some of the above options go as low as 1.5 gpm. Ideally, the less water used, the better, but obviously that doesn't fit every home. Pick a gpm that works for you and your family. Opposition to Low-Flow Showerheads Of course, there will be oppostion to low-flow showerheads. And they have a point. So here's three reasons why people might be discouraged from these showerheads. Perceived Inadequate Water Pressure: One common reason people might be hesitant to believe in the benefits of low-flow showerheads is the perception that these devices can't provide the same satisfying water pressure as traditional high-flow showerheads. Some individuals equate strong water pressure with an effective and enjoyable showering experience, so they are skeptical that a low-flow option can replicate this sensation. Lack of Familiarity and Experience: People often resist change, especially when it comes to routines and daily habits like showering. Low-flow showerheads might be unfamiliar to many individuals, and they might be wary of trying something new if they're already accustomed to their existing shower setup. Without firsthand experience or recommendations from trusted sources, they might doubt the effectiveness of low-flow alternatives. Skepticism about Performance: Concerns about low-flow showerheads not effectively rinsing away soap, shampoo, and conditioner can also contribute to disbelief. Some people fear that reduced water flow might lead to inadequate cleansing and an overall less enjoyable showering experience. This skepticism can stem from misconceptions about the technology and improvements in design that address these issues in modern low-flow showerheads. Conclusion of Low Flow Showerheads Conserving water is very important as it preserves natural resources and reduces the impact on our environment. There are many things that cause water wastage and one of the most common is using inefficient showerheads. You can save a lot of water just by swapping your regular showerhead with a low flow showerhead. If you're looking to make a positive impact, reducing your water consumption is a great start.