Choosing an eco-friendly showerhead
 When talking about showerheads, does “eco-friendly” mean the same as “low-flow?” You bet. But since “low-flow” implies that we’re getting less, marketing folks like to say “eco-friendly.”
Technically speaking, low-flow showerheads are designed to use just 2.5 gpm (gallons per minute) or less –about half the volume of old-fashioned showerheads. The good news about these green products is that they’re affordable (many models cost $25 or less), easy to install, and they save more than water. Switching to a low-flow showerhead is going to reduce your water-heating expenses, while also reducing your water and sewer bills (if you’re using these municipal services).
The major concern that most folks have about installing a new showerhead is that the low-flow design will dilute the shower experience, doing away with the invigorating spray that we all look forward to when stepping into the shower. Fortunately, this doesn’t have to be the case. Major manufacturers like Delta, Speakman, American Standard, Kohler, Moen and Grohe have made great strides in using pulsing and aerating technology to create the “feel” of ample soaking action with lower water volume.
The first thing to decide when buying your new showerhead is whether you need a fixed or handheld model. Handheld models are useful if children and/or pets will be using the shower, and they tend to cost more than fixed models. You might also consider getting a showerhead that includes a “pause” or shutoff valve. This can score you additional water savings by shutting off the water while you soap up.
Beyond these considerations, selecting a new showerhead is a matter of sorting through models that have earned high marks for various features. One top-rated model is the FloWise showerhead from American Standard, which offers three different spray patterns and a flow rate of between 1.5 and 2 gpm. Waterpik’s Medallion NSL-033 model features 12 modes and is available in handheld or fixed style.
The Skincare Showerhead from Oxygenics (shown in the photo) has been a longtime favorite too.
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