Today's showerheads use 2.5 gallons per minute of water (referred to and measured as gpm) or less. Low-flow showerheads can use as little as 0.5, but most use between 1.5 and 2 gpm. In general, however, experts say showerheads that use 1.5 gpm or more tend to perform better than products that use less water. The reason: Extremely low-flow showerheads (under 1 gpm) often struggle to provide an even spray of water. Furthermore, these showerheads typically mix copious amounts of air with the water, cooling down outputted liquid. Still, these products can be appealing to eco-conscious consumers, those who have a small water heater or live in an area that is prone to water shortages. For most people, however, experts say a showerhead that uses 1.5 to 2.5 gpm is enough to fit the bill.

If you're in the market for a high-end showerhead, see if you can check it out in action. Some home improvement stores actually offer real-life demonstrations to give consumers a better idea of a product's spray and pressure. Nearly all replacement showerheads are easy to install, but if you're not experienced in home repairs or you're buying a specialty showerhead, check the packaging or manufacturer's website for installation instructions before you begin. In general, all you'll need is a wrench or pair of pliers, a rag or washcloth, and a small amount of Teflon tape. Some showerheads include Teflon tape and a disposable wrench in the package -- a nice convenience if you would otherwise have to buy these items.

Here are some other things to keep in mind when shopping for a showerhead.

  • Standard, aerating showerheads are best if you have low water pressure. This type of showerhead adds air to the water, increasing the force of the spray. However, some owners complain that aeration can be noisy and this feature can lower the temperature of outputted water.
  • Multiple spray patterns are nice, but not a must-have. Most of the owner reviews we read indicated that users tend to settle on one particular spray pattern after a few weeks, and full spray is more often used than other patterns. Use your own judgment here; if members of your household like different types of showers, a multi-function showerhead may be a good idea. Otherwise, you can save money by choosing a single-function model.
  • Optional finishes are mostly for looks. Although stainless steel and brass finishes are more durable than standard chrome-over-plastic, they won't usually increase the lifespan of your showerhead. Most showerheads stop working properly due to mineral buildup and clogging inside the showerhead long before the finish degrades.
  • Consider an anti-scald shower valve if you share your home with small children or seniors. These devices reduce water flow to a trickle if it exceeds 115 degrees F and they can be a great way to prevent serious burns. Installing one is especially important if you keep your water heater at a temperature higher than 130 degrees F. Anti-scald valves cost about $30 to $40 and can be installed by a do-it-yourselfer in just a few minutes.

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