It’s a fair question – especially when you’re paying ever-increasing water and electricity bills in a cost-of-living crisis. Do water-efficient products like the water saving shower head actually make a difference?
For Brisbane households trying to reduce costs without sacrificing comfort, these small fixtures can indeed have a surprisingly large impact.
Let’s dive in:
What is a water saving shower head?
A water saving shower head, as you no doubt already know, is designed to reduce the amount of water that flows through your shower while maintaining strong, comfortable pressure.
- Traditional shower heads can use 15-25 litres per minute
- Modern efficient models cut that to as little as 6-9 litres.
So the idea is obvious: Same shower satisfaction, less waste.
In contrast, a non water saving shower head allows unrestricted flow – it feels powerful, sure, but can send thousands of extra of litres down the drain every week, costing you more in both water and heating.
How do water saving shower heads work?
You might be wondering, how do water saving shower heads work if they’re using less water? Surely it’s just marketing spin?
Actually, they DO work – and the answer lies in their clever engineering. They mix air with water or restrict flow without creating that weak drizzle effect older models were infamous for. So, in a way, the failures of the original water-saving power heads carried over a reputation for today’s versions … which really do work!
There are several water saving features that make today’s innovative designs effective:
- Flow restrictors to limit water volume.
- Pressure compensation valves that balance flow even when household pressure fluctuates.
- Aeration systems that inject air to create a full, misty spray with less water.
An aerated shower head, for example, combines water with AIR to create a fine spray that feels just as powerful as a high-flow shower while cutting usage by nearly half.
Yeah … But do they really work?
Yes! When properly installed and matched to your home’s unique water pressure profile, they not only work but also genuinely reduce shower water usage and energy costs. The average Australian family of four could save up to 50,000 litres of water per year, simply by switching. Because less water needs to be heated, energy savings follow automatically.
Did you know every new unit sold must now comply with shower head flow rate Australia wide standards, measured in litres per minute (L/min)?:
- An efficient shower head with a 3-star WELS rating typically has a shower flow rate of 7-9 L/min
- That’s a big improvement from the 15-20 L/min used by older fittings.
So what’s the verdict? Water saver shower heads absolutely work – but:
- Only if you choose a reputable brand
- Only if you have it installed by a professional plumber
- And only if you maintain it properly to avoid mineral buildup.
7 Other smart ways to save water & lower bills
Serious about reducing water bills during a cost-of-living crunch? There are plenty of small upgrades and habits that make a big difference:
1. Install dual-flush toilets
A single toilet flush can use up to 12 litres – dual-flush cisterns halve that instantly.
2. Check for leaks
A dripping tap or leaking pipe can waste thousands of litres per year. S&J’s leak detection service quickly finds hidden leaks before they drain your wallet.
3. Upgrade to mixer taps
Modern mixer taps reach your ideal temperature faster, wasting less water than separate hot and cold taps.
4. Choose modern shower heads
Today’s models include:
- Aerated
- Laminar-flow
- Self-cleaning heads that resist mineral build-up and maintain steady pressure even in older Brisbane homes.
5. Fit tap timers & flow regulators
Inexpensive regulators or timers can make a major difference to garden irrigation and outdoor use.
6. Switch to energy-efficient hot water systems
A hot water upgrade – like a heat pump or solar-boosted electric system – reduces energy use while pairing perfectly with low-flow fixtures.
7. Shorten shower times
Even with a water-saving head, every extra minute adds up. Cutting showers by just two minutes can save 20-30 litres each time.
Is it really worth the change?
A water-efficient shower head isn’t just a token gesture:
- It reduces energy
- Saves water
- Lowers utility bills
- Helps Brisbane homeowners meet sustainability goals.
And if you’re a landlord, upgrading older fittings can improve property efficiency ratings and tenant satisfaction at a minimal cost.
Here At S&J Plumbing and Gasfitting, we supply and install high-performance water-saving fixtures that meet Australian standards, ensuring comfort and compliance every time.
Make the switch today
Ready to save water, energy, and money? Talk to the local experts who know Brisbane plumbing inside and out. Call S&J Plumbing and Gasfitting or book online today – and we’ll help you choose, install, and maintain the right water-saving solutions for your home.