Showers are an essential part of modern life, providing a quick and thorough way to stay clean even when you have a very busy schedule. However, low water pressure can spoil this as you try to wash with a trickle of water, making your showers slower and far less effective.
There was a time when low water pressure made it impossible to enjoy a powerful shower but that has changed with the introduction of high-pressure shower heads. These heads make the most of your available pressure, cleaning more effectively while using less water.
In this article, we have reviewed seven of the best high-pressure shower heads for low water pressure on the market today. We selected these shower heads based on their size, efficiency, spray options, and ease of installation.
- Removable water restrictor
- Self-cleaning nozzles
- Includes Teflon tape
- 3 spray modes
- Self-cleaning nozzles
- Swivel ball joint
- Guaranteed to work at low pressure
- 3 spray settings
- Silicone rubber nozzles
- H2O Kinetics technology
- Water volume control
- Polished chrome finish
- Easily disassembled to clean
- Chrome-plated ABS material
- Removable flow regulator
- WaterSense-certified
- Pressure compensation
- Includes wall mount bracket
- Softens water
- Easily disassembled
- 3 spray modes
Product Reviews
If you have weak water pressure, it can be a struggle to find a shower head that will provide a powerful spray. To narrow down your options, we have reviewed seven of the best high-pressure shower heads for low water pressure, chosen for their spray options, size, efficiency, and ease of installation.
1. SparkPod Shower Head
Best High Pressure Shower Head Overall
This fixed shower head from SparkPod brings the invigorating feeling of heavy rain into your shower enclosure. The 6-inch wide circular shower head has 90 jets that will propel a large volume of water.
The head is mounted on a metal swivel ball, allowing you to aim it for a more thorough clean. To ensure the head complements the rest of your bathroom, you can choose either a chrome or black and chrome finish.
What We Like
Removable Water Restrictor
This shower head includes a water restrictor that can be removed to increase the flow rate. The restrictor is a rubber ring with a filter, so it can easily be removed.
As the shower head already restricts the flow rate, a low water pressure system shouldn’t make a significant difference to the shower’s performance. Some users have reinstalled the restrictor after removing it, as it can boost the shower’s spray intensity.
Self Cleaning Nozzles
The most obvious and troublesome side effect of hard water is limescale. This shower has silicone nozzles that can be easily rubbed clean by hand, preventing the build-up of hard water minerals and the limescale they bring. The results of this are a low-maintenance unit and consistent water flow.
Easy-Fitting
This shower head is designed to connect to a standard shower head connector, so you shouldn’t need any tools to install it. A roll of Teflon tape is also included with this product to help you achieve a watertight seal.
What We Don't Like
Plastic Components
Despite its appearance, this shower head is not made entirely of metal. It is chrome plated, leading some customers to report that it feels plastic and might not be as durable as solid metal models.
Insufficient Tape
Teflon tape is included with this shower head to achieve a watertight seal. However, some customers report that the tape is not very effective and not enough is included with the product.
Product Specs
| Fixed or Handheld | Fixed with tilt |
| Size | 6.9 inches x 6.4 inches x 3.9 inches |
| Weight | 8.6 ounces |
| Warranty | 30-day money-back, 1-year replacement |
| Flow Rate | 2.5 GPM |
2. Water Management Original Fire Hydrant Spa Shower Head
Best Design High Pressure Shower Head
The Water Management Fire Hydrant’s name suggests that it provides a powerful stream of water, and it lives up to that assumption. It is a fixed model attached to its base via a metal swivel ball joint, allowing you to angle the spray how you want it. Its simple design and chrome finish should help it complement any bathroom decor.
The shower head measures just 3 inches across but this diminutive size doesn’t mean it lacks power. It has been designed specifically for homes with low water pressure, so it should give your showers a meaningful boost.
What We Like
Adjustable Flow
By rotating the end of the shower head, you can adjust the type of spray the shower provides. It offers a massage setting and a spray setting, or a combination of the two.
It is very easy to select your chosen setting while showering. There are grooves on the head’s circular adjuster that enhance your grip to make it easier to turn, even when wet.
Self-Cleaning Nozzles
The Fire Hydrant’s nozzles are designed to reduce hard water deposits and limescale buildup. This means they are far less likely to become clogged and shouldn’t require frequent cleaning.
Quick Install
This shower head has a standard half-inch fitting, so it should screw easily into your existing shower arm. Customer reviews mention that it only takes a few minutes to install, and an extra washer and Teflon tape are included to ensure your new shower head is watertight.
What We Don't Like
Two-Handed Adjustment
Although there are grooves on the shower head to make it easier to adjust the spray type, some users find that they still need to use two hands to turn it.
Product Specs
| Fixed or Handheld | Fixed |
| Size | 4 inches x 3 inches x 3 inches |
| Weight | 4.8 ounces |
| Warranty | None specified |
| Flow Rate | 2.5 GPM |
3. Yoo.Mee High-Pressure Shower Head
Best Handheld High Pressure Shower Head
This Yoo.Mee high-pressure shower head combines the brand’s patented style and user-friendliness. The shower head and adjustable wall-mounted bracket are made of engineering-grade plastic with a chrome or brushed nickel finish.
The 79-inch hose is made of stainless steel and has brass connections. These brass fittings are very durable and shouldn’t crack or split. Two extra hose gaskets and a water flow regulator are included to make sure this shower head works the way you want it to.
What We Like
Patented Design and Warranty
Yoo.Mee claims its patented shower design will provide a powerful spray, even with low water pressure. They are so confident that they guarantee this throughout the shower head’s 12-month warranty. Full details of the warranty can be found on the service guarantee card inside the box.
Different Spray Settings
The shower head offers three different spray settings: a powerful spray, massage mode, or a combination of both.
There is a small lever on the circular part of the shower head that can be turned to adjust the spray setting. This makes it easy to change your selection, even when you have wet hands.
Silicone Rubber Nozzles
The shower head’s nozzles are made from silicone, which will help prevent hard water deposits and make them far easier to remove if they do appear.
What We Don't Like
Pressure Can Be too Strong
Some users find this shower head’s water pressure to be too intense and potentially even uncomfortable. This could be addressed with a water control valve, but this can also make the power drop too significantly.
Product Specs
| Fixed or Handheld | Handheld |
| Size | 8.9 inches x 3.3 inches x 1.8 inches (79-inch hose) |
| Weight | 1.1 pounds |
| Warranty | 12 months |
| Flow Rate | Not specified |
4. Delta Faucet 2-Spray Shower Head
Best Water-Saving Model
To reduce water waste, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends choosing a shower head that is WaterSense-approved (1). This Delta product is exactly that: a fixed shower head that is kinder to the environment and to your wallet.
It is designed with a low-flow shower spray pattern that still provides the sensation of a high-pressure shower. It has two settings, allowing you to choose from 2.5 or 1.85 gallon-per-minute flow rates.
Self-cleaning nozzles shorten the time spent cleaning the shower head by significantly reducing mineral deposits and scale buildup.
What We Like
H2O Kinetics Technology
Delta’s patented H2O Kinetics technology aims to reduce water usage by about 20% while providing a unique spray pattern. The company states that it will produce a powerful wide spray or a gentler, more water-efficient one. In line with the EPA’s WaterSense specifications, this shower provides three times more coverage than average.
Volume Control
The water volume is controlled by a small, raised toggle on the side of the shower head, so it is easy to switch between settings. This makes the shower head ideal whether you want a powerful spray to rinse the shampoo out of your hair or a gentler flow to relax in.
Chrome Finish
The shower head has a highly-polished chrome finish, so it will look at home in most bathroom styles.
Lifetime Warranty
Delta has great confidence in its products. This is reflected in the limited lifetime warranty it provides on both the parts and finish of this shower head.
What We Don't Like
No Directional Adjustment
Although many fixed shower heads allow for slight adjustments, this one is truly fixed in place. There is no way to adjust the direction of the spray once it is installed. This could pose a problem for housemates of different sizes or when you want to avoid the water to allow your shampoo and conditioner to soak in.
Water Spray Settings
This shower head has two settings, but some reviews say there is little noticeable difference between them. These settings seem more beneficial for saving water than adding versatility.
Product Specs
| Fixed or Handheld | Fixed |
| Size | 4.63 inches x 4.06 inches |
| Weight | 12.3 ounces |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Flow Rate | 2.5 or 1.85 GPM |
5. WantBa Shower Head
Best For Adjustable Rainfall
If you enjoy the feeling of a refreshing rainstorm in the summer and want to experience a similar sensation in your bathroom, this fixed rainfall shower from WantBa is an excellent option.
It is mounted via a brass swivel ball joint so you can angle the spray how you want it. The 6-inch-wide head has 57 jets that provide a steady stream of high-pressure water.
What We Like
Easy to Install and Clean
There are no tools required to replace your old shower head with this one. It has a half-inch female connection that screws onto your existing fitting, provided it is a standard US fitting.
Simply unscrew your old shower head, apply some plumber’s tape to the connector, screw in the arm, and then attach the shower head. This shouldn’t take more than a few minutes.
To clean the shower head, remove the screws to reveal the jets. Simply wipe away any scale and buildup that might clog the jets and tighten the screws again.
Durable Construction
This shower head is constructed from chrome-plated ABS plastic material. It is designed to be hardwearing, heat-resistant, and impact-resistant (2). The nozzles are made of rubber and the unit can be easily dismantled to clean it.
Removable Flow Regulator
The flow rate of this shower head is 2.5 GPM and it is fitted with a flow regulator. If your water pressure is very low, this regulator can be removed to increase the volume of water that reaches the jets of the shower head.
What We Don't Like
Narrowing Water Stream
Although the stream leaves the unit at the full 6-inch width of the shower head, it apparently narrows as the water drops. This could mean it only hits a small part of your body at a time.
Drips
Water can collect in the shower head when you shower. It then drips out of the nozzles until the water is drained. This doesn’t seem to affect every owner, so it is possible that it is the result of a faulty batch.
Product Specs
| Fixed or Handheld | Fixed |
| Size | 6 x 6 x 3.2 inches |
| Weight | 8 ounces |
| Warranty | None specified |
| Flow Rate | 2.5 GPM |
6. Niagara Conservation Earth Massage Shower Head
Best Compact Handheld High Pressure Shower Head
Handheld shower heads provide versatility. They can be left in their wall mount or easily removed for targeted cleaning. This Niagara Conservation Earth model is a great example.
It has a long 72-inch stainless steel hose that is great for cleaning your bathtub or washing pets, in addition to fulfilling your showering needs.
It includes a wall mount bracket and is made from ABS thermoplastic for longevity and corrosion resistance. The chrome plating and streamline style give it an elegant look that will fit in with any bathroom design.
What We Like
Water-Saving
This shower head adheres to the EPA’s WaterSense certification standards. It also meets ANSI (American National Standards Institute) specifications, which protect the health and safety of the user (3). These certifications are clear signs of a high-quality shower head.
Pressure Compensation
Niagara Conservation uses patented technology in its shower heads to provide strong performance at almost any water pressure. This applies to all three of the head’s spray options. The spray mode is easily altered by twisting the end of the shower head to choose a needle spray, massage, or a combination of both.
What We Don't Like
Possible Leaks
There are reports that this shower head could eventually spring a leak. These usually result in water coming from the hose or shower head connections. If this happens and you have owned it for less than a decade, you should be protected by the 10-year warranty.
Product Specs
| Fixed or Handheld | Fixed |
| Size | 2.7 inches x 2.7 inches x 4.1 inches |
| Weight | 5.6 ounces |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Flow Rate | 1.25–2.0 GPM |
7. Kaiying High-Pressure Water Saving Ionic Shower Head
Best High Pressure Shower Head For Softening
If you live in a hard water area in addition to having low pressure, this shower head could address both problems. It includes a stainless steel shower hose and has filtering mineral stones encased in clear perspex.
The shower head is chrome-plated with tiny laser-cut holes that the water sprays from. The mineral beads, which soften the water, protect your skin and hair from the harmful effects of hard water minerals.
What We Like
Easily Disassembled
The showerhead and bead compartments can be easily disassembled. This is important when the beads need to be replaced or when the unit requires cleaning.
Ionic recommends changing the beads every six months. If your water has very high mineral content, you might need to replace them every 3 months.
Three Spray Modes
This shower head has three different spray modes: rainfall, massage, and jet. These options are easily selected thanks to the grooves etched into the rotating part of the head.
What We Don't Like
Flimsy Shower Button
There are doubts about the durability of the button that adjusts the three shower modes. Some users report that they can end up malfunctioning.
Product Specs
| Fixed or Handheld | Handheld |
| Size | 9.29 inches x 5.35 inches x 3.23 inches |
| Weight | 20.48 ounces |
| Warranty | Not specified |
| Flow Rate | Not specified |
| Product | Best | Fixed or Handheld | Size | Weight | Warranty | Flow Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SparkPod Shower Head | Overall Pick | Fixed with tilt | 6.9″ x 6.4″ x 3.9″ | 8.6 oz | 1-year | 2.5 GPM |
| Water Management Fire Hydrant Spa | Design | Fixed | 4″ x 3″ x 3″ | 4.8 oz | N/A | 2.5 GPM |
| Yoo.Mee High-Pressure Shower Head | Handheld | Handheld | 8.9″ x 3.3″ x 1.8″ | 1.1 lbs | 12 mos | N/A |
| Delta Faucet Shower Head | Water-Saving | Fixed | 4.63″ x 4.06″ | 12.3 oz | Lifetime | 2.5 or 1.85 GPM |
| WantBa Shower Head | Adjustable Rainfall | Fixed | 6 x 6 x 3.2″ | 8 oz | N/A | 2.5 GPM |
| Niagara Conservation Earth Massage | Compact Handheld | Fixed | 2.7″ x 2.7″ x 4.1″ | 5.6 oz | 10 years | 1.25–2.0 GPM |
| Ionic Shower Head Water Saving | Softening | Handheld | 9.29″ x 5.35″ x 3.23″ | 20.48 oz | N/A | N/A |
Types of Shower Heads for Low Water Pressure
There are two main types of low-flow shower heads you can use to increase the effective water pressure of your shower:
Fixed (or Standard) Shower Heads
These shower heads are stationary and fixed to a wall or ceiling in your bathroom. The flow of water is controlled by the shower head’s nozzles, which are smaller than usual.
As the holes are small, they concentrate the water that flows through them. This is essentially the same as when you place your thumb over the end of a garden hose; the smaller the gap you leave for water to escape, the greater the force of the water as it does so.
Handheld Shower Head
A handheld shower head has a flexible hose that allows you to maneuver it around the shower enclosure. They are usually slotted into a grip or pole and can be removed when you want to target a specific part of your body. Handheld shower heads often have multiple spray settings and are sometimes more efficient than fixed heads.
What is a Low Flow Shower Head?
A low-flow shower head regulates your water flow, making it feel as though your water pressure is higher than it truly is. There are two types available:
- Aerated flow
- Streamline/laminar flow
Both types have smaller nozzles in the shower head, so the water is propelled out at an increased velocity. Aerated models add air for a gentler stream containing bubbles, while a streamline unit provides a steady flow of water.
These shower heads are designed to restrict the flow rate, saving water and keeping the gallons per minute (GPM) down. The maximum water usage for most shower heads is 2.5 GPM (4).
Although these shower heads restrict the amount of water used, their small holes mean even low water pressure can provide a quick and thorough clean.
Features of the Best High-Pressure Shower Heads
If your home has low water pressure but you still want the benefits of a high-pressure shower head, you should consider the following features:
Adjustable Spray Settings
Many shower heads offer multiple spray options, with high-end heads often providing several modes. These options usually include strong massaging jets, water pulses, rainfall, or a combination. There is no overall best spray option; it is largely a matter of personal preference. The more options your shower head has, the more versatile it will be.
Water-Saving
Some shower heads have eco-friendly water-saving features built in. These could help you reduce your energy bills. One of these devices is a restrictor valve, which can be removed if necessary. Think carefully before choosing a water-saving head, especially if you already have low water pressure.
Size
Check whether or not a shower head will fit your shower before buying it. While some models are pretty small, others can be quite large. Most modern shower heads will fit onto the majority of valves but it is still important to be sure before making a purchase.
Easy to Install
Modern showers are usually standardized when it comes to their connections. This means most shower heads should simply screw into your existing shower valve. Double-check to make sure installation will be straightforward and find out whether you need to buy any additional connectors.
Flow Control
Look for flow control or on-off switches on the shower head itself. This will enable you to adjust the shower’s pressure or temporarily pause it without having to use the main shower valve.
How to Fix Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure affects countless people around the world, and it can have numerous causes. If you have already checked that your main water supply is functional and the valves are fully open, try the following:
Are Your Faucets and Shower Head Clean?
Hard water can narrow your pipes and clog your shower nozzles. It contains calcium and magnesium, which form scale. These mineral deposits can accumulate and significantly reduce the flow rate of your shower head (5).
Your faucets and shower head can be cleaned by soaking them in a mixture of white vinegar and water. If your shower head unscrews easily, detach it and place it in a bowl of vinegar and water to soak. If it doesn’t, you can put the liquid in a plastic bag and place it over your shower head, tying it at the top to hold it in place. This should loosen any sediment that is clogging the holes.
Check for Leaks
A seemingly small leak from a pipe can make your water pressure drop significantly. Leaks can be difficult to detect. Try shutting off all your faucets and plumbing appliances and keep a close eye on your water meter. If it increases even with the water shut off, you probably have a leak.
Quick Tip
Use a Pressure Gauge
You can monitor the water pressure around your home by using a pressure gauge. This will give you a clearer picture of whether your whole home has an issue with low pressure or only specific fixtures. A normal reading should be somewhere between 45 and 80 psi (6).
Once you have a clear sense of your water pressure, you will have a better idea of which type of shower head will be suitable for your bathroom.
FAQs
What Is Considered Low Water Pressure?
Low water pressure is regarded as pressure under 40 psi. When low water pressure is experienced at only one fixture, the issue can be resolved by concentrating solely on repairing either the problematic fixture or the pipes that supply it.
On the other hand, water pressure concerns that are extensive and affect the entire home point to a different problem. If the water pressure in your house seems to be low, you should first try to determine the origin of the problem.
What Flow Rate Do I Need for a Good Shower?
A shower that has more than 15 liters per minute is considered one with a good flow rate. In the US, water pressure is restricted by regulations to 2.5 GPM max; in some states, it goes as low as 1.8.
What Is the Highest Flow Rate for a Shower Head?
Since 1992, the federal government has enforced laws limiting showerhead manufacturers to a maximum flow rate of 2.5 GPM. California has passed legislation restricting the flow rate, which now stands at 2.0 GPM, dropping to 1.8 in July 2018.
Regulations on water flow help conserve billions of gallons of water each year, and new technology is helping to maintain or even improve the quality of your showering experience.
Does a Flow Restrictor Increase Pressure?
A flow restrictor does not increase pressure and will instead lower it. A device known as a flow restrictor is a piece of equipment intended to restrict the flow of water or air from a faucet or dispenser.
These appliances are frequently kind to the environment and can be of assistance in reducing monthly water expenses. For instance, users can reduce the water required for dishwashing and showering when installing flow restrictors.
Why Does My Shower Lose Pressure After a Few Minutes?
If your shower loses pressure after a few minutes, you’re likely dealing with a clogged pipe. You should try turning on each faucet in your home to listen for any strange gurgling sounds that might be coming from the pipes.
If you hear gurgling, you already know that they are partially clogged because of the sound.
Should the pipes be clogged entirely, no water will pass through, and you won’t hear any sounds. When the water hits the obstruction, the resistance it encounters will cause a dramatic drop in the pressure of the water.
However, the water will, for the most part, continue to flow through the pipe. In addition, the flow of water will bring the pressure back up.
