ENERGY SAVINGS

Use up to five times
less hot water with
a low-flow showerhead.

Hot water heating is the second largest energy user in a household, accounting for 15%-30% according to energy.gov.au. If you are using an inefficient showerhead, then you could be washing money straight down the drain. By switching to an eco-friendly, low-flow showerhead, you’ll use less water and ultimately lower your energy bills.

Here, we explore how low-flow showerheads work, what you can expect to save and what to consider when buying a low-flow showerhead.

How does a low-flow showerhead work?

A low-flow showerhead is designed to reduce the amount of water used, without compromising on that satisfying shower experience. The device works by incorporating special mechanisms that restrict the amount of water that can pass through the showerhead's nozzle. Since there is no reduction of pressure, your shower will still be as invigorating as usual.

When shopping around for a low-flow showerhead, pay attention to the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) label. The higher the stars, the more efficient it will be. Do bear in mind that for a low-flow showerhead to be considered efficient, it must use nine litres of water or less per minute.

How can I save by installing a low-flow showerhead?

The average Australian spends seven minutes in the shower. A conventional showerhead has a flow rate of around 25 litres per minute. If you shower daily, you could be using around 175 litres of hot water a day and 63,875 litres a year.

On the other hand, a low-flow showerhead with a 3-star WELS label uses around five litres of hot water per minute. That’s an incredible five times less water, equating to 35 litres a day and 12,775 litres a year. So, by switching, you can save tens of thousands of litres of hot water a year.

As for how you can save? Your overall water consumption is reduced meaning, less energy is required by your pumps to move it, and heating system to warm it, so you can expect your energy bills to drop. Don’t forget the environmental rewards–by using less water, you’ll be lowering your household’s carbon footprint.

What factors should I consider buying a low-flow showerhead?

Consider your budget when choosing a low-flow showerhead. Although they come with a higher upfront cost than regular showerheads, they will save you money in the long run.

Check your home’s water pressure to make sure that a low-flow showerhead will still be able to meet your needs. Be sure to choose a showerhead that is designed to work with low water pressure or one that has adjustable settings so you can find the right balance between water pressure and flow rate.

Ensure that the low-flow showerhead you choose is compatible with your existing plumbing and shower system. Some showerheads may require specific fittings or connectors, and it's important to make sure these are available and easy to install before making a new purchase.

Summary

• A low-flow showerhead works by restricting the amount of water that can pass through the showerhead's nozzle, without reducing the pressure and maintaining a satisfying shower experience.
• A low-flow showerhead with a 3-star WELS water rating label could save you five times the amount of hot water used by a traditional showerhead.
• The WELS label will indicate how efficient the showerhead is. It must use nine litres of water or less per minute. 
• Before you buy a low-flow showerhead, consider your budget, check your home’s water pressure and ensure the model you opt for is compatible with your existing plumbing.

ActewAGL's energy saving tips are designed to help you take control of your energy use, while reducing your bills and environmental impact. Save with great value energy plans backed by our sustainability promise, supported by 100% local, award-winning service - so you can LIVE A Good Life now and into the future.

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Sources

https://www.energy.gov.au/households/hot-water-systems
https://bright-r.com.au/australias-hour-of-shower-is-revealed-in-new-research/
https://www.climatechoices.act.gov.au/water-and-plants/water-efficiency/
https://www.redenergy.com.au/living-energy/smart-homes/the-low-down-on-water-saving-shower-heads/
https://www.watercorporation.com.au/Help-and-advice/Waterwise/Bathroom/Saving-water-during-shower-time/

Disclaimer: These Energy Savings tips and articles are for information purposes only. Please ensure you are aware of any safety precautions before operating appliances or products.