Retrofitting Your Existing Shower Head to Reduce Flow Rate

If you want to reduce the flow rate of your existing shower head to conserve water and lower your utility bills, you have several effective options. Retrofitting your shower head with flow restrictors and aerators can help achieve this goal without sacrificing the quality of your shower experience.

Flow Restrictors

What Are Flow Restrictors? Flow restrictors, also known as flow regulators, are devices that can be installed in your existing shower head to limit the amount of water that flows through it. These small, often disk-shaped devices are designed to reduce water consumption while maintaining sufficient water pressure for a comfortable shower.

Installation Process:

1. Remove the Shower Head: Unscrew your shower head from the arm using a wrench if necessary. Be careful not to damage the finish.
2. Insert the Flow Restrictor: Place the flow restrictor into the inlet of the shower head. Some shower heads come with built-in restrictors, which can be adjusted or replaced.
3. Reattach the Shower Head: Screw the shower head back onto the shower arm, ensuring it is tightly secured to prevent leaks.
4. Test the Water Flow: Turn on the shower to check the water flow and ensure it meets your needs. Adjust if necessary.

Advantages:

• Cost-Effective: Flow restrictors are inexpensive and easy to install.
• Water Savings: Significantly reduces water usage, leading to lower water and energy bills.
• Eco-Friendly: Helps conserve water, benefiting the environment.

Sources:

• Home Depot
• EPA WaterSense

Aerators

What Are Aerators? Aerators are devices that mix air with water, which helps to reduce water flow while maintaining a strong, consistent spray. By increasing the perceived pressure, aerators ensure a satisfying shower experience without using as much water.

Installation Process:

1. Remove the Shower Head: Similar to installing a flow restrictor, start by unscrewing the shower head from the arm.
2. Install the Aerator: Depending on the design, you may need to place the aerator inside the shower head or attach it to the shower arm.
3. Reattach the Shower Head: Screw the shower head back in place, ensuring it is secure to avoid leaks.
4. Test the Shower: Turn on the water to ensure the aerator is functioning correctly and providing a satisfactory flow.

Advantages:

• Enhanced Shower Experience: Maintains strong water pressure by mixing air with water.
• Water Efficiency: Reduces water consumption without compromising on shower quality.
• Versatility: Can be used in both new and existing shower heads.

Sources:

• Plumbing Lab
• Energy.gov

Additional Tips

1. Regular Maintenance: Ensure your shower head and any installed devices are kept clean to prevent mineral buildup, which can affect performance.
2. Check Local Regulations: Some areas have specific requirements for water flow rates in plumbing fixtures. Make sure your retrofitting complies with local laws.
3. Consult a Professional: If you are unsure about installing these devices yourself, consider consulting a plumber for assistance.

Retrofitting your existing shower head with flow restrictors or aerators is a practical and efficient way to reduce water usage without sacrificing the quality of your shower experience. These devices are cost-effective, easy to install, and contribute significantly to water conservation efforts. By implementing these changes, you can enjoy a powerful and eco-friendly shower every day.

Studies and Data on Reducing Shower Head Flow Rates

1. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - WaterSense Program:

   • Findings: The WaterSense program estimates that replacing a standard shower head with a WaterSense-labeled model can save the average family 2,700 gallons of water annually.
   • Savings: These water savings can reduce energy costs associated with heating water by approximately 330 kilowatt-hours annually.
   • Impact: Nationally, if every home in the U.S. installed WaterSense-labeled shower heads, it could save more than $2.2 billion in water utility bills and more than 260 billion gallons of water annually.

2. California Energy Commission (CEC) Study:

   • Findings: The CEC reported that low-flow shower heads can reduce water usage by 25-60%.
   • Savings: The study found that retrofitting shower heads to low-flow models could save up to 3,000 gallons of water per person per year.
   • Impact: This can significantly reduce energy consumption for water heating, leading to lower energy bills and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

3. Journal of Cleaner Production:

   • Study: "The environmental and economic impacts of increasing water-use efficiency in residential showers" (2017)
   • Findings: The study concluded that implementing low-flow shower heads in residential buildings could reduce water use by up to 50%.
   • Economic Impact: The reduction in water use translates to substantial cost savings over time, with a payback period for retrofitting costs typically under one year.

4. American Water Works Association (AWWA) Research:

   • Findings: AWWA research indicates that residential water use can be reduced by 15-20% by installing low-flow fixtures, including shower heads.
   • Impact: This reduction in water use can significantly ease the burden on local water supply systems, especially in drought-prone areas.

5. Pacific Institute - "Waste Not, Want Not: The Potential for Urban Water Conservation in California":

   • Findings: The study suggests that retrofitting all homes in California with low-flow shower heads could save up to 260,000 acre-feet of water annually.
   • Economic Impact: The cost savings from reduced water and energy use are estimated to be in the billions of dollars statewide.

Shower Head