Take Control of Your Shower With Removable Flow Restrictors
Is your shower underwhelming? Do you find yourself waiting impatiently as trickles of water slowly rinse the shampoo from your hair? Many households deal with weak water pressure and restricted shower heads. But you don't have to settle for lackluster showers. By removing the flow restrictor inside your shower head, you can unlock far more robust and invigorating water flow.
You'll learn the step-by-step process for locating and removing your existing restrictor. We'll also cover the benefits of higher pressure showers and factors to consider beforehand. Follow along to learn how this simple modification grants you control over your ideal shower.
How Shower Head Flow Restrictors Work
Let's start by understanding what exactly a shower head flow restrictor does. Mandated by federal regulations, these devices limit the amount of water passing through your shower head per minute. Here's an overview of how they function:
Purpose of Flow Restrictors
Flow restrictors inside shower heads serve two key conservation purposes:
- They restrict water flow to 2.5 gallons per minute, as required by law. This cap on usage helps reduce residential water consumption.
- The limited flow means less water needs heating, cutting energy costs associated with showering.
So in short, flow restrictors aim to increase sustainability and efficiency in the average household shower.
Internal Shower Head Mechanism
Inside your shower head, you'll find a small round plastic piece with a narrow opening inserted into the nozzle. This device is the flow restrictor. As water attempts to pass through the constricted opening, the flow rate decreases significantly.
The restrictors are installed at the factory level, meaning all new shower head models contain them. However, you likely have the option to remove the restrictor from your existing shower head.
Removing the Flow Restrictor
Now that you understand how flow restrictors limit water flow, let's discuss the straightforward process for removing yours. With a few simple steps, you can detach the restrictor and enjoy far stronger shower pressure.
Locating the Flow Restrictor
The first step is accessing the actual restrictor. In most shower heads, the flow restrictor is located inside the nozzle opening itself. Peer closely into the nozzle and you should spot a white or blue plastic circular piece.
Steps to Remove Restrictor
With the restrictor visible, removing it takes just a few minutes:
- Use a pair of pliers to firmly grip the rim of the restrictor.
- Gently twist the pliers counterclockwise to unscrew the restrictor, like loosening a bottle cap.
- As you twist, the restrictor will detach completely. Pull it fully out of the opening.
And that's it - with the restrictor removed, your shower head is ready for full water flow!
Storing Removed Restrictor
Don't discard your removed restrictor. Keep it in a safe place, as you may want to reinsert it later to conserve water. The restrictor gives you easy flexibility to toggle between efficient and high-powered showers.
Benefits of Removing Flow Restrictor
With the restrictor detached, you'll immediately notice some benefits. Removing the impediment to water flow allows for:
Increased Water Pressure
The main advantage is intensified water pressure, as less restriction results in higher water volume. The pressure increase you experience depends on your home's plumbing system.
Customizable Shower Experience
Now you can cater your shower's flow rate to the preferences of different household members. Enjoy a gentle rain shower or switch to a pounding massage.
Invigorating Shower Feeling
A high-pressure drenching feels incredibly refreshing and spa-like. The blasting water envelops your entire body for a heavenly shower.
Faster Rinsing
The additional force of unrestricted water flow also helps rinse shampoo and soap from your hair and skin more quickly. You save time while still conserving water.
Considerations Before Removing Restrictor
While removing your shower head's flow restrictor offers many benefits, keep a few important factors in mind beforehand:
Check Local Building Codes
Some state regulations and local municipalities prohibit removing flow restrictors. Check your area's building codes to avoid violating any laws.
Water Efficiency vs. Pressure
Consider your household's priorities regarding water usage versus ideal pressure. Find the right balance between your desired flow rate and conservation.
Filter and Softener Effects
If you have other devices like water softeners and filters installed, these can impact your overall water pressure. Removing the restrictor may be unnecessary.
FAQ About Removing Flow Restrictors
If you're considering removing your shower head flow restrictor, you probably have some remaining questions. Here we answer some frequently asked questions:
Is it legal to remove the restrictor?
In most cases, yes - removing the restrictor from an existing shower head you own is perfectly legal.
How can I remove the restrictor without damaging the head?
Carefully grip the rim of the restrictor with pliers and gently twist counterclockwise. Take care not to bend or crush the actual shower head.
What will happen if I remove the restrictor?
Removing the restrictor enables unimpeded water flow, resulting in increased pressure. Exact pressure results depend on your plumbing.
Can I reinsert the restrictor later?
Absolutely. Just re-screw the restrictor back into place when desired. You can toggle between restricted and unrestricted easily.
We hope this guide gave you a comprehensive look at shower head flow restrictors. While mandated for efficiency, removing the simple plastic restrictor offers an easy route to customized shower pressure. With this knowledge, you can take control and optimize your household's shower experience.
Removing the restrictor allows you to enjoy intense, spa-like showers or relax under gentle water flow. And you can easily toggle between options. Give your shower a makeover by following the straightforward steps to detach the restrictor. Then lather, rinse and repeat for showering bliss.