How to Take Out a Shower Head Flow Restrictor

Is your morning shower leaving you feeling frustrated? Do you find yourself running out of hot water before you've finished rinsing the shampoo from your hair? If so, the issue likely lies with your shower head's flow restrictor.

Flow restrictors are small plastic disks inside most modern shower heads that reduce water flow. While important for conservation, they can make for a less than invigorating shower experience.

Understanding Flow Restrictors

Flow restrictors, sometimes called water restrictors, are devices installed in most shower heads manufactured after 1994 to limit water usage per minute. This conservation effort complies with the 1992 U.S. Energy Policy Act, which prohibits shower heads from exceeding a flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM).

These small disks or screens with tiny holes work to reduce overall water flow from the shower head. They disrupt and limit water pressure through strategic placement within key mechanisms inside the shower head.

How Flow Restrictors Reduce Water Usage

Modern flow restrictor designs utilize advanced fluid dynamics to minimize water waste. Small hole patterns divert incoming supply into spray channels. Decreased outlet sizes slow release while maintaining steady pressure. Strategic disk placement targets key junction points to control flow volume.

High-efficiency models with multiple functions and settings have precision-engineered disks to independently regulate different sprays. This allows for water savings without compromising effectiveness of cleaning sprays.

The Evolution of Water-Conserving Shower Heads

The earliest shower heads offered unlimited flow not conducive for conservation. However, environmental concerns and water scarcity issues in the late 20th century highlighted the need for reduced residential water waste.

In 1992, Congressional regulation mandated that manufacturers curb shower head water usage to 2.5 GPM. This 75% reduction from the traditional 10 GPM flow rate paved the way for modern fixtures designed for efficiency.

Early regulated shower heads simply choked overall water flow to meet guidelines. Unfortunately, this resulted in disappointing spray strength and coverage. Through advanced engineering, subsequent generations overcame these limitations while upholding strict usage standards.

Problems Caused by Restricted Flow

• Lower water pressure and weaker spray strength
• Inability to fully rinse long hair
• Prolonged shower times to properly cleanse
• Cooler water temperatures from reduced flow
• Clogged holes and mineral buildup

When to Consider Removing the Flow Restrictor

Those experiencing the above frustrations may benefit from removing their existing flow restrictors. Reasons to eliminate them include:

• Insufficient existing water pressure
• Desire for a more intense shower spray
• Need for hotter water temperatures
• Clogged holes causing additional flow issues
• Damaged flow restrictor screen

Removing the Flow Restrictor

Before attempting to remove your shower head's flow restrictor, ensure doing so complies with your local plumbing codes. Most areas allow removal as long as maximum flow stays under mandated limits.

Next, gather the proper tools:

• Adjustable wrench
• Rag
• Needle-nose pliers
• Teflon tape

Locating the Flow Restrictor

Flow restrictors are typically found either embedded in the shower head itself or within the connecting arm that joins to the water supply line. Locating them takes a few simple steps:

1. Remove shower head from the shower arm or wall mount
2. Inspect inner threads and water outlet for a plastic disk or mesh screen
3. Check the connecting ball joint and arm for similar devices
4. Consult manufacturer instructions for exact placement if unsure

Accessing and Extracting the Restrictor

Modern shower heads feature water-tight threading and reinforced casings to comply with conservation guidelines. Carefully follow manufacturer specifications when disassembling any sections. Once located, removing the flow restrictor requires precision:

1. Unscrew connector nut holding the parts together using your wrench
2. Separate handle and connector, exposing flow restrictor
3. Grip disk or screen with needle-nose pliers and detach
4. Clean out any debris or mineral deposits
5. Replace any worn washers or rubber rings
6. Wrap threads adequately with Teflon tape to prevent future leaks
7. Rejoin handle and connector before tightening nut

Take extreme care not to strip any threads or damage washers during this process. Even minor errors in reassembly can quickly lead to leaks or a loose shower head.

Enjoying Your Flow Restrictor-Free Shower

Once correctly reassembled without the flow restrictor, enjoy the benefits of elevated water pressure. You should notice immediate improvements:

• Stronger spray intensity
• Improved coverage for rinsing
• Better temperature consistency
• Shorter required shower times

Monitoring Changes in Water Usage

While removing your existing restrictor offers certain advantages, it also eliminates previous conservation efforts. Closely monitor your water usage and bills for the first 1-2 months to gauge increased consumption.

Should changes drastically exceed expectations or budgets, reintroducing regulated shower heads provides an easy remedy. This allows you to enjoy the benefits of pressure-elevated flow only when truly needed.

Considerations Before Long-Term Removal

When debating permanent flow restrictor removal, consider how the following factors may change:

• Water usage and related utility charges
• Wear and tear on existing plumbing from pressure
• Risk of leaks from component failures
• Tempering needed for safe hot water levels

Consult local regulations regarding shower head flow limits and exemptions for medical necessity. Some areas prohibit permanent removal while others have waiver programs.

To ensure your unregulated shower head continues working properly:

• Inspect washers and connectors for wear
• Upgrade aging pipes and fittings
• Use scale removers to prevent mineral clogs
• Regularly clean nozzles
• Check spray settings and water tempering

While removing existing flow restrictors allows for easy home improvements, always exercise caution. Verify local codes, use proper tools, and prevent water damage through vigilant maintenance.