Ironically, we converted our toilet to dual-flush before we switched to a low-flow showerhead. Changing showerheads is one of the easiest things people can do to save water and energy. According to the EPA, showers represent 17% of indoor water use. And it’s heated water, too.

I’d thought all this time that our showerhead was low-flow, until I realized that 2.5 gallons per minute was now the legal maximum flow for all showerheads. Truly low-flow is now 1.5 gpm. At least that was the lowest we could find at our local hardware stores.

I was worried that water pressure would be a problem, so I chose a showerhead that advertised itself as high pressure. Too much pressure, in fact. I felt like I was being assaulted every time I took a shower. I tried to get used to it for a week, and then got another. This time the pressure was more reasonable. I actually think it’s better than my old showerhead. And it was only $10.

It's a little utilitarian-looking, but it works for me.

As important as the flow rate is the off switch. With it I can warm up my water and then turn it off if I need to, without it changing temperature. I can even shut off the water while I lather up. Navy shower, anyone?

Unfortunately, now I have an extra showerhead. Does anyone like forceful showers and want to give it a try? I’ll be happy to mail it to you.