Aerating Shower Heads: What Are They & Which Are The Best?

We know you’d probably like to get straight to the point, so we’ve provided a quick summary of our top picks in the table below. Keep reading for an in-depth review of aerating shower heads, and the great options available on the market.

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Image	Product	Features	Price
	High Sierra’s Metal 1.5 GPM High Efficiency Low Flow Showerhead	Best for premium and style! Low 1.5 GPM flow rate Longer nut discreetly conceals unsightly threads WaterSense certification, proudly made in America	Check Price
	Niagara Conservation Earth SPA 1.5 GPM Wall Adjustable Aerating Shower Head	Best for comfort with excellent water efficiency! Proprietary pressure-compensation technology to maintain a consistent spray multiple spray options WaterSense certification and has received recognition from ANSI, NSF, ASME, CSA, and other reputable organizations	Check Price
	Nuie Rectangular Easy Clean Handset	Best for hand held and low pressure! High-quality ABS construction Can operate with a minimum pressure of just 0.1 bar 5-year manufacturer’s guarantee	Check Price
	Cobbe Hand Held Shower Head with High Pressure 6 Spray Mode	Best for sustainability and water quality! Eco-friendly materials Filtration system which removes pollutants (chlorine, and heavy metals etc.) Good pressure, even in low water pressure condition	Check Price

Would you like to make your regular shower more water efficient, without compromising the experience? If yes, then you are in the right place. In this article, we will discuss water saving aerating shower heads, examine how they function, what advantages they offer, and what are the best options available on the market. Get ready to enhance your showering experience with water saving shower heads, while also contributing to a more environmentally friendly and sustainable future.

Table of Contents

How Do Water Saving Aerating Shower Heads Work?

The unsung heroes of water-wise bathing, aerating shower heads, also called water saving shower heads, strike a perfect balance between water conservation and a pleasurable showering experience by introducing air into the water stream. This genius system design produces larger water droplets filled with air, creating the illusion of a powerful, high-pressure shower which is very therapeutic. 

The aerating nozzles are strategically placed in the shower head which expertly pump water with air. These nozzles transform the water into a voluminous, gentle waterfall that caresses your skin while significantly reducing water usage. The result? A gentle yet environmentally responsible shower that doesn’t compromise on elegance while saves a lot of water.

What Are The Benefits of Aerating Shower Heads?

There is no doubt that aerating shower heads work effectively and can reduce water consumption considerably. They vary in the degree to which they aerate the water, and therefore the water reduction potential, but you should easily be able to reduce your shower water consumption to 1.5 gallons per minute (GPM), 5.7 litres per minute. This is considerably less than a typical shower head which might deliver 2.5 to 3 GPM (9.5 to 11.3 litres per minute)

Aerating shower heads offer a range of benefits that can enhance your daily routine while also promoting water conservation:

• Water conservation: As mentioned, aerating shower heads offer real opportunity to save water. Take a look at the flow rates presented in the ‘top picks’ section at the end of the article and see how they compare to typical showers with our Household Water Usage Calculator.
• Save money: Reducing water consumption leads to lower water utility expenses, enabling you to save money without sacrificing comfort. You can calculate water cost saving through our Money Saver Calculator.
• Exceptional shower experience: If you select from the best aerating shower heads on the market, you will successfully reduce your consumption whilst still providing a relaxing and enjoyable shower experience.

Aerating vs Non-Aerating Shower Heads

Your bathroom is your sanctuary and it is crucial that it serves its purpose efficiently, whilst allowing you to enjoy the space. Therefore, it is best to compare the options, including both aerating and non-aerating shower heads, in order to select the best option for you:

• Aerating shower heads: These provide a soothing, luxurious shower experience while conserving water, making them ideal for homes with sufficient water pressure.
• Non-aerating shower heads: These are advisable for houses with low water pressure and can often deliver a comfortable shower with less water usage compared to higher pressure houses.

As you can see, the choice depends largely on your water pressure situation.

How to Choose the Right Aerating Shower Head

Now that you are aware of the advantages, follow these tips for selecting the ideal aerating shower head:

• Flow Rate: For maximum water savings, consider models with flow rates under 2 gallons per minute (GPM), 7.6 litres per minute.
• Spray Patterns: To customize your showering experience, look for shower heads with adjustable spray patterns. There are many options here which allow you to adjust the spray pattern during the shower, from a massage spray to a gentle distributed spray.
• Materials: We recommend choosing durable materials like chrome or brass for long-lasting performance.
• Water Efficiency Certifications: For added confidence, seek products with water efficiency certification (such as WaterSense in the US)
• Compliance: Whilst a simple shower head is unlikely to require particular regulatory requirements, it is always worth checking with your plumber, or local plumbing authority what the rules are in your area.

Installation and Maintenance of Aerating Shower Heads

Installing an aerating shower head is a very simple process, but getting it right is a very important part of your bathing hygiene, safety and performance of the shower. Here’s how to do it:

1. Turn off the faucet to cut the water supply off.
2. Alternatively, switch the shower head off and direct the water flow to the bathtub tap.
3. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the current showerhead.
4. Remove any old plumber’s tape from the shower spout’s threads to prepare them.
5. Apply 2-3 layers of plumbing tape to the shower spout’s threads in the direction counter to the thread direction.
6. Manually screw in your water-saving aerating shower head.
7. Using your wrench, tighten the showerhead until firm. Of course, it must end up pointing the correct direction.
8. See if there is any water leakage by slowly opening the water supply faucet.
9. Take a regular shower and enjoy your water-saving, environmentally responsible showering experience. You may be able to adjust the spray pattern to the way you like it!

To maintain your aerating shower head and ensure the best results and water savings, simply keep it clean.

Top Picks for Aerating Shower Heads

Convinced to switch to a more waterwise efficient shower experience that reduces your water usage and saves money? These aerating shower head selections offer a perfect blend of efficiency, style, and functionality.

High Sierra’s Metal 1.5 GPM High Efficiency Low Flow Showerhead (Amazon)

Our top pick for premium and style!

Sierra’s enhanced showerhead design can elevate your everyday showering experience. The longer nut discreetly conceals unsightly threads, ensuring a smooth transition along the shower arm. The award-winning innovative nozzle releases a refreshing full-spray of large droplets.

With a low 1.5 GPM flow rate and a beautiful, brushed nickel finish, this showerhead not only enhances your bathroom’s aesthetics but also conserves water and energy, reducing consumption by up to 40%. Crafted from solid lead-free brass, it carries the WaterSense certification, proudly made in America, and seamlessly combines elegance, efficiency, and environmental consciousness for a durable and environmentally responsible bathroom upgrade.

Nuie Rectangular Easy Clean Handset (Amazon)

Our top pick for hand held and low pressure!

This stylish and practical shower handset makes modern bathroom makeovers attainable for those seeking both style and functionality. This handset is not just an added luxury in your bathroom but also delivers a comfortable showering experience. With its chic chrome finish and high-quality ABS construction, it seamlessly complements the aesthetics of contemporary bathrooms.

It adapts to low-pressure systems, requiring only a minimum pressure of 0.1 bar. Moreover, it provides consumers peace of mind through a reassuring 5-year manufacturer’s guarantee. The dimensions are W-38mm, H-240mm, D-419mm. Enhance your showering experience right away with this essential addition.

Niagara Conservation Earth SPA 1.5 GPM Wall Adjustable Aerating Shower Head (Amazon)

Our top pick for comfort with excellent water efficiency!

The Niagara Conservation fixed showerhead promises a spa-like shower experience. This black and round shower head utilizes proprietary pressure-compensation technology to maintain a consistent spray, even when faced with fluctuating water pressure. Apart from substantial annual savings on water and energy expenses, this California-compliant water-saving showerhead offers multiple spray options which include a 9-jet spray, a regular shower, or a combination to suit your preferences.

Constructed from high-impact polycarbonate thermoplastic, this showerhead is designed for durability and corrosion resistance. It also adheres to EPA water efficiency standards through its WaterSense certification and has received recognition from ANSI, NSF, ASME, CSA, and other reputable organizations.

Cobbe Hand Held Shower Head with High Pressure 6 Spray Mode (Amazon)

Our top pick for sustainability and water quality!

The modern Cobbe ABS showerhead offers a soothing spray experience while being environmentally friendly. Crafted from eco-friendly materials and designed for longevity, it also boasts effective heat insulation properties. The most unique factor about this shower head is its quadruple 15-stage filtration system which effectively removes pollutants, chlorine, and heavy metals from the water supply. This saves you from many skin allergies and keeps your hair healthy. It ensures comprehensive, high-pressure showers, even in low water pressure conditions, thanks to its sizable 4.9-inch display and pressure-boosting technology.

This showerhead is a very sleek and practical addition to your bathroom as it offers six selectable settings, hassle-free DIY installation, and compatibility with standard hoses.

Pro Water-Saving Tips With Your Shower

Here are some more great ways to cut water usage in your bathroom, besides upgrading to an aerating shower head:

• Keep Your Shower Head Clean: As was previously noted, mineral buildup can obstruct water flow. To keep your showerhead performing at its best, clean it frequently.
• Utilize Shower Eco Settings: To conserve even more water, use the settings on your shower valve that allow for a lower flow.
• Time in the Shower: Limit the length of your shower using a timer to avoid wasting too much water.
• Fixing Drips To prevent water loss, take immediate action to fix any drips or leaks.

You can maximize your water savings and help create a more sustainable environment by implementing these habits into your everyday routine.

Final Thought

In conclusion, aerating shower heads are the perfect solution for eco-conscious individuals seeking a balance between water conservation and a great showering experience. By understanding how they work, their benefits, and considering the right model for your home, you’re taking a meaningful step towards reducing water consumption in you home.

Choose wisely, install with properly, and revel in guilt-free, luxurious showers while reducing your dependence on utility supplied water. Join the movement towards sustainable living, one shower at a time. Your wallet, the planet, and future generations will thank you for it.