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The Best High-Pressure Shower Heads to Upgrade Your Bathroom, Tested

Conserve water, save money, and enjoy a fantastic shower with one of these outstanding high-pressure shower heads.

Best Overall

The Speakman Hotel Anystream High-Pressure Shower Head on white background.

Speakman Hotel Anystream High-Pressure Shower Head

Runner-Up

The Kohler Awaken G110 Multifunction Shower Head on a white background.

Kohler Awaken G110 Multifunction Shower Head

Best Bang for the Buck

The Waterpik PowerSpray+ Shower Massage Shower Head on a white background.

Waterpik PowerSpray+ Original Massage Shower Head

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High-pressure shower heads reliably deliver one of the main elements of a pleasant shower experience: a steady, invigorating spray. For bathrooms with low water pressure, these simple devices can pump up a shower experience immensely. 

But we wanted to know how much oomph these products could add to an otherwise low-pressure shower, so we researched dozens and tested a host of different models with various designs and spray options. Our favorite was the Speakman Hotel Anystream High-Pressure Shower Head for its sleek appearance and even water distribution on all of its spray settings.

To help assess what makes a great high-pressure shower head, we also spoke with a licensed plumber to get his take on what to look for. Read on to learn more about how to find the best high-pressure shower heads and to find out how each of these bathroom fixtures fared in our hands-on tests.

  1. BEST OVERALL: Speakman Hotel Anystream High-Pressure Shower Head 
    Jump to Review
  2. RUNNER-UP: Kohler Awaken G110 Multifunction Shower Head
    Jump to Review
  3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Waterpik PowerSpray+ Original Massage Shower Head 
    Jump to Review
  4. BEST HANDHELD SHOWER HEAD: Moen Engage Eco-Performance Handheld Shower Head
    Jump to Review
  5. BEST DUAL SHOWER HEAD: Delta H2Okinetic In2ition 5-Setting Dual Shower Head
    Jump to Review
  6. MOST EFFICIENT: High Sierra WaterSense Classic Fixed Shower Head
    Jump to Review
  7. MOST UNIQUE OPTION: AquaDance 3-Way Rainfall Combo Shower Head
    Jump to Review
  8. BEST POWER WASH: AquaCare High-Pressure Hand Shower & Tile Power Wash
    Jump to Review 
  9. BEST RAIN SHOWER HEAD: Moen 2-Function 8-Inch Rainshower Spray Head
    Jump to Review
  10. BEST SPRAY PATTERNS: Kohler Flipside 4-Function Shower Head
    Jump to Review 
  11. BEST FILTERED: Jolie Filtered High-Pressure Shower Head
    Jump to Review
TheHO2ME High-Pressure Handheld Shower Head in use during testing.
Photo: Shannon Lee for Bob Vila

Our Top Picks

We reviewed the top brands and the most popular products to find some of the best high-pressure shower heads available. After matching them up against one another and checking each one against our criteria, we narrowed the list to only the top choices for shower heads offering excellent water pressure. Those looking for a new shower head are likely to find it among our top picks.

Best Overall

Speakman Hotel Anystream High-Pressure Shower Head

 The Speakman Hotel Anystream High-Pressure Shower Head on white background.
Photo: Amazon

Product Specs

  • GPM: 2.5
  • Handheld included: No
  • Spray patterns: 3

What We Like

  • Multiple finishes to choose from; suitable for any bathroom’s decor 
  • Comes with 3 different spray settings; a choice for virtually every pressure preference 
  • Easy to clean and maintain; comes with integrated self-cleaning plungers 

What We Don’t Like

  • Spray coverage may be somewhat narrow compared to some other shower heads

This Speakman Hotel Anystream high-pressure shower head is a quality choice for new construction or as a replacement wall-mounted shower head. This premium high-flow shower head’s clean lines and sleek, simple design will enhance and complement any modern bathroom. Plus, it comes in four color options to match any bathroom’s current fixtures. 

Those who travel often might recognize this brand and perhaps even this particular model from hotels; it’s a delight for weary travelers to see a Speakman shower head, as it’s a sure sign of good water pressure.

Speakman’s patented Anystream system and eight massage jets evenly distribute water as it smoothly transitions through intense, massage, and combination spray settings. Our testing found that the ring to adjust the various settings moved easily, but not so easily that the shower head could slip from one setting to another without the user adjusting the setting. 

A proprietary plunger system controls the spread of water as it leaves the nozzle, allowing pressure to build and intensify. The plungers are self-cleaning, resisting hard-water buildup and sediment and making the shower head easy to maintain. 

What our expert says: “I found the installation to be as easy as it gets: I simply removed the old shower head and screwed this one into place without the use of tools.”—Tony Carrick, Product Reviews tester & writer

Get the Speakman high-pressure shower head at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Walmart

Runner-Up

Kohler Awaken G110 Multifunction Shower Head

 The Kohler Awaken G110 Multifunction Shower Head on a white background.
Photo: Amazon

Product Specs

  • GPM: 1.75
  • Handheld included: No
  • Spray patterns: 3

What We Like

  • Sleek, modern design; suitable for most contemporary bathroom designs and decors
  • Wide spray coverage; multiple spray options for different showering tasks 
  • Simple to switch between sprays, plus there’s an easy toggle for adjusting 
  • Complies with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) specifications 

What We Don’t Like

  • May not fit some piping in older homes; may require more extensive updates to install 

This multifunctional shower head from Kohler offers plenty of options for a customized look and feel in a contemporary design. An advanced spray engine increases low water pressure for a more pleasant shower, and the fixture provides three spray choices controlled by a simple thumb tab. There is a low-pressure option, and the Kohler can comply with ADA specifications.

Though this shower head feels surprisingly light out of the box, it packs a mighty pressure punch. In testing, it installed quite easily, and its spray options indeed proved unique. The wide coverage spray is excellent for general use, while the intense drenching spray is forceful (ideal for rinsing out shampoo). The focused, targeted stream can massage sore muscles—a welcome relief that delivers what a high-pressure shower head is all about. 

Get the Kohler Awaken high-pressure shower head at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Wayfair.

Best Bang for the Buck

Waterpik PowerSpray+ Original Massage Shower Head

 The Waterpik PowerSpray+ Shower Massage Shower Head on a white background.
Photo: Amazon

Product Specs

  • GPM: 1.8
  • Handheld included: Yes
  • Spray patterns: 4

What We Like

  • Easy to customize settings; 4 spray modes offered for different showering tasks
  • Very wide spray area; provides full-body coverage for all-over cleaning
  • Pulsating and slow massage functions allow for a more relaxing shower experience
  • Best budget shower head on this list; a truly affordable luxury

What We Don’t Like

  • Frustrating packaging may be tough to handle during the unwrapping process 
  • Sits a little high on the base of the shower faucet 

Those shopping for an excellent yet affordable high-pressure shower head may wish to check out this Waterpik model. The handheld shower head is Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) WaterSense certified for demonstrated water savings and shower performance. It features a 5-foot-long hose to provide plenty of range for bathing kids and pets while also making cleaning the shower easier. Four spray modes include full-body coverage, strong pulsating massage, slow massage, and full-body-with-massage combo. There is no click when turning the dial to change the spray settings, so it’s possible to set them “in-between” for even more customizable options.

The packaging, unfortunately, was frustrating to open; do so carefully in case returning the product becomes necessary. We found the shower head to feel very light and were concerned at first when we heard a rattling sound upon taking it from the box. However, that sound is due to a small part inside the shower head that creates the pulsing sensation of one of the spray settings—it is not a defect. We also found that the tubing requires some time to loosen up, as it is very stiff out of the package.

Get the Waterpik high-pressure shower head at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Best Handheld Shower Head

Moen Engage Eco-Performance Handheld Shower Head

 The Moen Engage Eco-Performance Handheld Shower Head on a white background.
Photo: Amazon

Product Specs

  • GPM: 1.75
  • Handheld included: Yes
  • Spray patterns: 6

What We Like

  • Magnetic docking system; shower head can be removed and replaced with ultimate ease
  • Easy installation; should only take a single set of hands to install
  • Multiple jet options; 6 spray types offered to suit virtually any user’s preference 

What We Don’t Like

  • Water pressure can vary; may not be ideal for some plumbing setups 

Moen’s handheld shower head offers freedom and flexibility. The base features a magnetic docking system that allows the business end to be quickly detached for handheld use. When done using, simply put it back into the dock and let the magnet snap it into place. The magnet holds firmly, so a bit of force is needed to pull the shower head from the mooring, but once in hand, the weight feels balanced and comfortable—even when slippery with soap and water, it’s easy to hold on to.

A 5-foot interlocking spiral metal water supply hose provides ample reach. The 3.5-inch-diameter spray head features six unique spray functions to provide a customized shower experience and optimal force. Our testing found that the shower head offered everything from a gentle rain shower, perfect for bathing small children, to a high-pressure stream that leaves adults feeling squeaky clean and refreshed. The Moen complies with ADA specifications and boasts EPA WaterSense certification.

Get the Moen Engage high-pressure shower head at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart

Best Dual Shower Head

Delta H2Okinetic In2ition 5-Setting Dual Shower Head

 The Delta H2Okinetic In2ition 5-Setting Dual Shower Head on a white background.
Photo: Amazon

Product Specs

  • GPM: 1.75
  • Handheld included: Yes
  • Spray patterns: 5

What We Like

  • Huge diameter for wide, full-body coverage while showering; also makes cleaning the shower stall easier 
  • Durable materials; long-lasting and reliable construction for impressive longevity
  • EPA WaterSense-certified shower system, yet offers 5 different user-friendly spray settings 
  • Comes with a unique wave spray pattern for a spa-like experience 

What We Don’t Like

  • Water pressure can vary depending upon a home’s current plumbing setup

A handheld and overhead all in one, this Delta dual shower head can be used in two basic ways—plus five spray choices make for a luxurious customized shower. The dual shower head can be securely docked overhead or easily detached for handheld use with a separate stainless steel hose. A powerful magnet holds the shower head precisely for easy docking, even if the bather’s eyes are closed. The flexible high-quality hose bends easily, the lever for changing settings moves smoothly, and installation of the unit is a breeze.

Delta’s H2Okinetic In2ition dual shower head provides three times more coverage than a standard shower head with a unique wave spray pattern and larger water droplets. This EPA WaterSense-certified dual shower head system offers four different spray settings plus a pause setting, which saves water by temporarily reducing flow rates to a trickle while lathering or shaving. The spray settings glide rather than click for a more customizable shower experience.

Get the Delta high-pressure dual shower head at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Build With Ferguson.

Most Efficient

High Sierra WaterSense Classic Fixed Shower Head

 The Best High-Pressure Shower Head Option High Sierra WaterSense Classic Fixed Shower Head
Photo: Amazon

Product Specs

  • GPM: 1.5
  • Handheld included: No
  • Spray patterns: 1

What We Like

  • Very simple to install; no professional help required during installation process
  • Straightforward shower head is simple to operate; spray pattern can be angled up or down 
  • Angle can be adjusted to get water where it is needed

What We Don’t Like

  • Only 1 spray setting integrated; may not be as user-friendly as some other shower heads
  • Water pressure can have low flow rates; may not be ideal for some user preferences 

Those looking for the best shower experience from the least amount of water will want to check out the High Sierra low-flow shower head. Aside from coming in a host of finishes, there are no bells and whistles with this model. It is a simple shower head with a strong, high-pressure spray even while maintaining a low flow rate of 1.5 GPM.

With its solid metal construction and clog-free nozzle, it’s one of the most rugged, dependable low-flow shower heads available. The patented nozzle delivers a robust and full spray of large water drops for a powerful experience and minimal water usage. We found the installation to be a snap—no surprise, considering the simplicity. The only caveat: This shower head has a small range of movement, but the spray pattern can be angled up or down slightly to suit the height of the user.

Get the High Sierra high-pressure shower head at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Most Unique Option

AquaDance 3-Way Rainfall Combo Shower Head

 The AquaDance 3-Way Rainfall Combo Shower Head on a white background while emitting a powerful spray from both heads.
Photo: Amazon

Product Specs

  • GPM: 2.5
  • Handheld included: Yes
  • Spray patterns: 6

What We Like

  • 2 shower heads for enhanced full-body coverage during washing or shower cleaning 
  • Easy to install with no tools; should only require a single set of hands to install 
  • 6 spray settings on each for personalized experience; adds relaxation to any shower 

What We Don’t Like

  • Lower pressure may be experienced when using both shower heads
  • Sits high on the bracket; not suitable for low ceilings
  • Poor-quality Teflon tape included; may need to buy better-quality tape elsewhere for installation

The AquaDance high-pressure shower head is actually two shower heads; they can be used together for a fully immersive experience or separately for a more traditional shower. The larger shower head is 7 inches in diameter, providing a wide spray area, while the 4-inch shower head is a handheld wand with a 5-foot hose that allows for more ease in rinsing. Each shower head has six spray settings, so when using them together, it’s possible to combine settings for a truly personalized experience.

The click-lever dial is easy to move, even with slippery fingers. Our testing found that the water pressure dropped a bit when both shower heads were running, as might be expected when the same amount of water is being forced through more space. Those with low bathroom ceilings might have trouble with installation for this one, as the handheld wand sits higher than the larger shower head. Plus, though installation is simple and toolless, the shower heads come with cheap Teflon tape. To prevent leaks, we recommend buying quality tape separately for installation.

Get the AquaDance high-pressure shower head at Amazon or Target.

Best Power Wash

AquaCare High-Pressure Hand Shower & Tile Power Wash

 The AquaCare High-Pressure Hand Shower & Tile Power Wash on a white background while emitting a powerful spray from both heads.
Photo: Amazon

Product Specs 

  • GPM: 2.5 
  • Handheld included: Yes
  • Spray patterns: 6 plus 2 cleaning spray patterns

What We Like

  • Includes a high-pressure spray nozzle that’s effective for cleaning mold and mildew from shower walls
  • Nice variety of spray patterns for coverage, massage, and rinsing 
  • Has a durable feel and is capable of surviving accidental drops

What We Don’t Like

  • Rain settings don’t offer the same broad coverage as standard shower heads

This clever handheld shower head isn’t just great for a terrific bathing experience—it also speeds up and simplifies the chore of cleaning the shower. That’s because there’s a tile-cleaning mode among the spray options on the nozzle. For luxurious showering, there’s a wide rain spray pattern for maximum coverage, massage settings, mist settings, two combination settings, and a pause setting. The cleaning nozzle includes two spray patterns: a point jet setting for maximum cleaning pressure and a wide fan for broader rinsing. 

During testing, we loved the versatility and performance of this handheld. Like most handheld shower heads, the AquaCare attaches to the shower spigot via a bracket. We found it to be easy to remove and replace, and we liked the broad range of adjustments on the bracket that allowed us to direct the spray for shorter and taller occupants. 

The wide range of settings provides plenty of pressure and good coverage for a handheld shower head, though it didn’t compare to the coverage from some standard shower heads we tested. The soft mist is a gentle alternative to the more powerful rain and massage settings, and the two mixed spray patterns offer pleasant variations. We particularly liked how the massage settings supplied enough pressure to soothe sore muscles with a water flow of 2.5 GPM. 

While we enjoyed the handheld spray patterns and water pressure, the cleaning functions are what set this handheld apart from other models. Both cleaning spray patterns produce a very high-pressure output that worked very well for removing soap scum, mold, and mildew. 

What our expert says: “I liked the solid construction of this handheld, which survived several drops on the shower floor with nary a scratch.”

Get the AquaCare high-pressure shower head at Amazon or Walmart.

Best Rain Shower Head

Moen 2-Function 8-Inch Rainshower Spray Head

 The Moen 2-Function 8-Inch Rainshower Spray Head on a white background.
Photo: Amazon

Product Specs 

  • GPM: 2.5 
  • Handheld included: No
  • Spray patterns: 2

What We Like

  • Durable and beautiful all-metal construction with no plastic parts
  • Lever makes it easy to change between rain shower pattern and high-pressure pattern
  • Provides good coverage thanks to large 8-inch-diameter size 

What We Don’t Like

  • Water pressure is disappointingly weak when in the “calming” rain shower setting

Moen’s rain shower head not only offers great coverage; it’s one of the rare models to have all-metal construction. It measures a fairly wide 8 inches in diameter and offers a rain setting and a high-pressure rinse setting, with a lever on the side to switch between the two. The Moen rain shower spray head comes in a variety of finishes, including brushed nickel, brushed gold, chrome, matte black, and oil-rubbed bronze. 

One of the most appealing aspects is the shower head’s all-metal construction, which gives it a higher-quality feel than models with plastic housing. Although this made it the most expensive shower head that we tested, we found the look and feel to be a cut above. 

Unfortunately, we were somewhat disappointed with its performance. We liked the coverage offered by the 8-inch diameter size, but the water pressure on the rain shower setting was disappointingly weak. Switching to the high-pressure rinse spray pattern increases the water pressure dramatically, but while we found this spray pattern useful for rinsing conditioner, its spray was too narrow for regular showering. Folks who like a gentle shower experience may be fine with the rain shower, but those who expect an invigorating spray may well be disappointed.

Get the Moen high-pressure rain shower head at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.

Best Spray Patterns

Kohler Flipside 4-Function Shower Head

 The Kohler Flipside 4-Function Shower Head on a white background.
Photo: Amazon

Product Specs 

  • GPM: 2.5 GPM
  • Handheld included: No
  • Spray patterns: 4

What We Like

  • Koverage spray pattern produces a wide, soothing rain shower feel
  • Komotion spray closely mimics the feel of a heavy rainfall
  • Flip design makes it easy to move through spray patterns with 1 hand

What We Don’t Like

  • Kotten spray pattern has limited coverage, while massaging Kurrent spray pattern doesn’t target muscles well

Kohler’s Flipside is a unique take on the multi-spray pattern high-pressure shower head. Rather than move a lever to cycle through the shower head spray patterns, bathers rotate the shower head end over end to switch between its four spray options. Spray settings include a wide, broad spray pattern for coverage, one that mimics the feel of heavy rainfall, and two massaging spray patterns designed to soothe sore muscles. 

During testing, there were things we loved and things we didn’t like about the Kohler Flipside. One of its positives is its Koverage spray pattern: It lives up to its name by providing broad coverage yet feels soft and soothing on the skin, which is impressive. We also liked Kohler’s Komotion spray, which is a drenching spray that mimics heavy rainfall. We weren’t as enthused with Kohler Kotton, which has a soft feel but is such a narrow pattern that it doesn’t offer much coverage, or Kohler Kurrent, which is a massage spray but has a wide yet thin pattern that makes it difficult to focus its pressure on specific muscle groups. 

The flippable shower head design works quite well. Levers can be finicky, often requiring the bather to hold the shower head with one hand while working the lever with the other. With the Kohler, it was a breeze to flip the shower head with one hand to cycle through its spray patterns. 

We loved the look of the Kolher shower head. Its rounded appearance makes it one of the more attractive models we tested. And while it’s also one of the pricier shower heads we tested, it has a durable feel that suggests it will last a long time. 

Get the Kohler Flipside high-pressure shower head at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.

Best Filtered

Jolie Filtered High-Pressure Shower Head

 Jolie Filtered High-Pressure Shower Head on a white backround
Photo: Amazon

Product Specs 

  • GPM: 1.8 
  • Handheld included: No 
  • Spray patterns:

What We Like

  • Comes with a built-in water filter; can be used to soften and clean well and hard water 
  • Provides a steady and high-pressure rainfall of water for complete coverage when in use 
  • Over 6 sleek finishes offered to fit in most bathrooms’ current fixtures 

What We Don’t Like

  • Only comes with 1 rain spray pattern; not as versatile as some comparable picks 
  • Water filters only last for 90 days; no indicator included for when filter replacement is necessary 

Compact, clean, and simple, the Jolie filtered shower head offers high-pressure water flow without the hassle of tricky installation. Made with a built-in water filter that is capable of cleaning all harmful materials and bacteria from the dirtiest well water, we loved that this wall-mounted rain shower head offers relief to dry skin, hair, and nails and it comes in six sleek finishes to match any bathroom’s current fixtures. 

During testing, this model provided consistent and strong water pressure and a rainfall effect. But, our favorite moment with this model was when it was used for washing notoriously frizzy hair. It stood up to the test well, given that we felt the softness of the water immediately and there was a noticeable decrease in frizziness after we dried our hair.

We also loved that the Jolie came with everything required for installation, including a small wrench, plumber’s tape, and the first water filter. However, more filters will need to be purchased after 90 days. Users should also note that there is no filter indicator included. 

Read our full review: Jolie Filtered High-Pressure Shower Head

Get the Jolie high-pressure shower head at Amazon.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best High-Pressure Shower Heads

Before getting our hands on our list of products, we reached out to Roy Barnes, a seasoned plumber and co-owner of Service Force Plumbing in Rockville Maryland, who gave us some expert insights. His main advice is to find a happy medium between coverage and pressure because, as he says, “the fairly universal application of flow restrictors in shower heads for environmental and economic reasons means that there’s a limit to how much water comes out of a modern shower head.” 

Adding to this, he says “the only way to make the flow more powerful is to put a mechanical ‘thumb’ over the shower output.” The tradeoff is that a more focused, pressurized stream will cover less surface area. With this in mind, we researched dozens high-pressure shower heads, chose a select variety, and put them to the test.

We tested them with hands-on trials, guided by a rubric that helped us keep the process fair and as objective as possible. We looked at the gallons per minute (GPM), the ease of installation and use, how suitable they were for the high-pressure needs in a typical shower, and how well they held up over time. 

We also checked out the little things that matter, such as the length of hose in a handheld shower and the ease of removing the product from its packaging. We took note of how the water streams felt on the skin: Does the shower head truly live up to its invigorating high-pressure promise? The results were calculated on our rubric and compiled to present the lineup seen here.

What to Consider When Choosing a High-Pressure Shower Head

There are several functional elements and design features to consider when shopping for a high-pressure shower head. Flow rate is the most important technical concern. In addition to aesthetic choices like appearance and finish, look for features such as spray patterns, energy-saving benefits, and other options. The following are the criteria we considered in making the picks in the above lineup.

Design

There are four basic high-pressure shower head designs: wall-mounted, handheld, rain shower head, and three-way. The model that works best for each person will depend on bathroom size and layout, along with personal preference.

  • A wall-mounted shower head, also known as a fixed shower head, stays in place on a wall and may feature an adjustable spray pattern. It’s available in a standard size as well as larger models. 
  • A rain shower head is a large fixed overhead shower head with a much broader coverage area and a sensory experience comparable to being out in a rain shower. The best high-pressure rain shower head gives a powerful, immersive shower experience.
  • A handheld shower head connects to the water supply with a flexible hose and sometimes comes with spray pattern options. This simplifies tasks such as bathing young children, washing the dog, and cleaning the surrounding shower area. Doctors often recommend them for patients after surgeries that impair movement. A handheld shower head paired with a wall-mounted option is often called a dual shower head.
  • A three-way shower head includes both handheld and fixed shower heads, with a three-way diverter that allows the user to choose one or the other, or both at the same time.

Finish

The finish on a shower head is a purely aesthetic choice, and options are surprisingly diverse, from shiny chrome to warm brass to trendy black matte. Finishes offer many opportunities to customize the look of the shower along with the rest of the bathroom. For cohesion, the shower head should complement (if not exactly match) other bathroom hardware: the sink faucet, toilet flush lever, drawer pulls, towel racks, etc.

The materials and application methods used in chrome, polished brass, brushed nickel, and stainless finishes make them top choices for durability. Chrome is the most popular shower head finish by far, while polished brass is its golden-hued counterpart. These shiny finishes give a clean and classic look, but they also highlight every soap spot. Matte finishes like brushed nickel and stainless offer the same durability as chrome but resist spotting.

Spray Patterns

A high-pressure shower head provides plenty of force, but the spray pattern determines the comfort. Most shower heads have adjustable spray patterns, with some offering eight or more options. Choose from a pulsating massage, a powerful stream, a gentle mist, a soaking rain, or a combination spray pattern. To satisfy the whole family, consider buying a shower head with high pressure and plenty of spray pattern options.

Flow Rate

Flow rate is known as one of the most important considerations when selecting a shower head. Since the flow rate controls the overall water pressure coming out of the shower head, it is the key component users will want to consider if they have preferences about their shower experience. For example, for those who like massagelike water pressure, a shower head with a high flow rate should do the trick! 

Getting down to technical terms, the flow rate, shown in GPM, measures how much water flows through a shower head. Most standard shower heads are rated around 2.0 GPM, with the maximum flow rate being 2.5 GPM. These high-flow rate shower heads deliver 2.5 gallons of water each minute, or 25 gallons of water during a 10-minute shower.

Energy-Saving Certification

Governments regulate showerhead flow rates to help conserve water and energy. Water-saving shower heads that earn the EPA WaterSense label use no more than 2 GPM while providing a shower that is equal to or better than standard shower heads on the market. The EPA estimates that replacing a conventional shower head with a low-flow WaterSense shower head can save nearly 3,000 gallons of water each year. (An incredible savings, considering that showering accounts for approximately 17 percent of home water use.)

When shopping for an efficient shower head, don’t just take the manufacturer’s word for it; look for the WaterSense label. EPA-certified WaterSense shower heads have been tested and approved for their ability to save water and energy.

Optional Features

Many modern shower heads come with unique features that enhance safety, comfort, and convenience—think lights, sound, and smart technology.

LED lights can simply brighten a dimly lit shower, but a model with colorful—or even color-changing—LED lights turns the shower into a fun oasis. Some shower heads include a Bluetooth speaker to listen to music or to keep up with a favorite podcast. Other shower heads available are smart models that turn on automatically, control water temperature, track water usage, play tunes, and answer incoming phone calls.

The Advantages of Owning a High-Pressure Shower Head

High-pressure shower heads offer an improved showering experience over conventional models. These powerful shower heads decrease the water flow rate while increasing water pressure by employing variable spray patterns or compression-chamber engineering. The increased pressure feels invigorating and cleans efficiently, while the decreased flow rate saves water. This is especially helpful in places where household water pressure is lacking.

High-pressure shower heads use about one-fifth less water-flow rates compared to their conventional counterparts. Because they use less water, there is not as much water to heat, so they save on energy consumption, too. Water and power savings translate to money saved every month after switching to a high-pressure shower head. In brief, high-pressure shower heads:

  • Reduce water and energy bills.
  • Conserve water.
  • Upgrade the showering experience in homes with low water pressure.

FAQs

There’s a lot to consider when shopping for the best high-pressure shower head, so it’s understandable if you have some lingering or specific questions. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about high-pressure shower heads.

Q. What is a good water pressure for a shower?

Standard residential water pressure in the United States is between 45 and 55 pounds per square inch. Lower water pressure can be increased by installing a high-pressure shower head.

Q. Are there shower heads that increase water pressure?

Yes. High-pressure shower heads increase water pressure either by decreasing the flow rate or using a compression chamber. One of the best options for increasing water pressure is the AquaCare high-pressure shower head. Not only does this option come with a jet spray setting, but it also has a high-pressure spray nozzle that increases the overall pressure of the shower head. 

Q. How do high-pressure shower heads work?

High-pressure shower heads restrict the volume of water flowing through the pipe, like when a gardener sticks a thumb partly over the end of a trickling garden hose to make it spray farther. Inside the shower head, there are components to regulate the high-pressure water flow and provide an even shower.

Why Trust Bob Vila

Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.

Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.

Meet the Tester

Tony Carrick is a freelance writer specializing in home improvement, landscaping, technology, home security, and design. His articles have been featured on such sites as Angi, Popular Science, Futurism, 360 Reviews by U.S. News & World Report, Domino, and more. Carrick has conducted rigorous product testing on everything from power tools to home security systems to backyard grills. With each review, his goal is to help readers determine whether a product meets their needs and if it is or isn’t worth its price tag. 

Additional research provided by Mark Wolfe, Shannon Lee, and Stephanie Cronk.

 
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Tony Carrick

Contributing Writer

Tony Carrick is a freelance writer who has contributed to BobVila.com since 2020. He writes how-to articles and product reviews in the areas of lawn and garden, home maintenance, home improvement, auto maintenance, housewares, and technology.

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