Environmentally-Friendly Shower Heads: The Best Types

If you are in the market for a new shower head, consider getting something you like and helping the environment at the same time. In fact, if you are particularly eco-conscious, you may consider swapping your existing showerhead for a more conservation-oriented option as soon as possible. Here is how to find a great, eco-friendly showerhead.

Why Make the Effort of switching to a new rain shower head

With the ice caps melting and crazy weather changes around the globe, most of us are trying to do our part in protecting the environment. Part of environmental conservation is preserving water. In the US, showers are the third-largest source of water consumption. And, while water shortage isn’t a constant on the news, the supply isn’t as stable as many of us would like to assume.

In addition to helping the environment, you’ll also be saving money on your water bill because you are consuming less water. Fortunately, there are ways you can do your part for the earth, and save some cash, without majorly sacrificing your showering experience.

How to Choose a Shower Type

Wall Mount: This is typically the standard shower head type and can come with a variety of features including different power sprays.

Full Body: The full body has nozzles positioned at different heights so that spa-like feeling in your very own shower. These do run a bit higher in terms of price and will need some serious installation, but are a great way to treat yourself and can still be efficient enough to meet EPA criteria.

Handheld: The handheld option comes with a hose that allows you to detach the shower head from the arm for a more efficient clean. This option makes cleaning your bathing space super easy and is great for young children and pets.

High-Pressure: These showerheads allow you to get a massage while in the shower. While some high-pressure options are not conservation-friendly, there are a few that can give you high efficiency and power, while also helping you conserve.

Rainfall: The rainfall showerhead makes you feel like you are standing in the rain. These can be mounted overhead or at an angle and often tend to be larger than the typical showerhead. Fortunately, the newer designs are built to help conserve water while still giving you that relaxing feel.

Combination: There are a few options that combine the above features. For instance, some rainfall showers have a detachable hose to help wash hard to reach places or to make bathing pets easier.

Specialty: Companies are always trying to innovate and entice consumers. There are now plenty of modifications and features that have been built into showerheads including LED lights and remote controls. Specialty showerheads are a little bit more pricey and, maybe, a little harder to install as well.

Why Looking for WaterSense when buying a shower head matters

One of the best ways to ensure that you are getting a shower head that is environmentally friendly is to look for a white, blue, and green WaterSense label on the product. Products bearing the labels are certified by the Environmental Protection Agency to be more efficient than their counterparts and to provide measurable results. The label is also backed by independent, third-party research to ensure that you are getting something that really can make a difference.

Many different showerhead types will carry the WaterSense label, so it’s best to choose the type and then make sure to find something that is certified. In fact, there are plenty of search tools that will allow you to shop online for WaterSense showerheads specifically, including EPA’s took that can give you a list of showerhead brands that carry the sticker. Fortunately, WaterSense labeled showerheads aren’t necessarily expensive and are sure to save you more money by cutting water usage.

How to be Green on a Budget by upgrading your shower head

If your budget is a little tight, you can still help save the environment by upgrading your showerhead. You can find a standard wall mount or even a handheld showerhead with a WaterSense label for under fifty dollars at some stores. Considering that a water-efficient showerhead can save you more than seventy dollars in water and energy costs per year, it’s a pretty good investment.

Whether you need to upgrade your showerhead or want to do more for the environment by making the switch there are plenty of options on the market.

Resources— Interesting Engineer, Environmental Protection Agency, Business Insider

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