Did you know the average family uses nearly 40 gallons of water every day just for showering? You can lower this amount and save money in the process when you upgrade shower heads in every bathroom. Here’s how to choose the right replacement to reduce water consumption without affecting your routine.
Look for the WaterSense Label
While standard shower heads use 2.5 gallons per minute (gpm), all products bearing the WaterSense label consume 2.0 gpm or less. Just because the water flow drops doesn’t mean your shower experience suffers. In fact, qualifying shower heads must meet certain performance criteria established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure an equally or even more satisfying experience compared to standard shower heads.
Check the Pressure
Your home’s water pressure and what the shower head needs to function properly must match. Residential water pressure is usually between 40 and 60 pounds per square inch (psi). If you buy a shower head needing 55 psi but your home can only supply 45 psi, you’ll end up with lackluster pressure and an unsatisfying experience.
It’s easy to test your shower’s pressure with a screw-on tester available at your local hardware store. Once you have a number to work with, you can find the perfect shower head to match.
Consider the Hardware
It won’t make or break your shower experience, but for the best aesthetics, look for a replacement shower head that has the same finish as the shower arm. Chrome and brushed nickel are two common hardware materials. Take a good look at what’s in your shower before you shop for a replacement.
Installation Tips
Remember, when you upgrade shower heads, you’re only unscrewing the old head and mounting a new one to the existing shower arm. If you decide on a more extensive bathroom remodel involving replacing the connection, rely on a qualified plumber for the job. Improper installation could cause water leaks behind the wall and damage your home’s structural integrity.
For more information about how to upgrade shower heads for energy efficiency and high performance in your Calgary home, please contact the pros at Arpi’s Industries, Ltd.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Calgary, Alberta about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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