Did you know that showering accounts for 20-25% of all household water usage? In fact, if you shower for more than five minutes, the equivalent of a full bath of water is used.
In terms of water conservation, using a water saving shower head has obvious benefits, but regardless of how environmentally aware you are, there are clear direct advantages to householders. Low-flow shower heads have been found to reduce domestic water usage by up to 40%, so the positive effect on your wallet will be felt with each water bill.
In addition, water requires energy to be heated, so it stands to reason that if you use less water, you use less energy – so those bills will be slashed as well! If you are an eco-warrior, it is also worth considering that the energy-saving consequence of using a water saving shower head ultimately results in less carbon-dioxide emissions being pumped out into the atmosphere.
There are other ways to conserve water. Showering for less time or reducing the power or pressure of your shower will all help; however, switching to a water saving shower head is an easy way to conserve water and save money.
They are relatively inexpensive and are usually straightforward to install.
Your standard shower head should unscrew easily and be replaced in just a few minutes.
Traditionally water saving shower heads worked by restricting water flow but a common complaint was that they also reduced the pressure and many people preferred to stay with their existing shower heads. The more recent water saving shower heads work on the principle of aerating the water. This is a process of infusing air into the water stream so that some of the water is replaced by air, hence reducing water consumption.
For the best of these, look no further than the Oxijet shower head. This effective system is designed to inject minuscule air bubbles into the water to make it feel like you are showering at full water pressure, while consuming up to 50% less water. Dr Jie Wu, a fluids specialist at Australia’s Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) explains: “Traditional flow restrictors reduce flow and pressure, whereas Oxijet uses the flow energy to draw air into the water stream, making the water droplets hollow. This expands the volume of the shower stream, meaning you can save the same amount of water, while still enjoying your shower.”
Unlike several other devices, the Oxijet system is compatible with most normal shower fittings. The Oxijet has undergone the most rigorous testing procedures as well, having been trialled at a well-known resort in Wollongong, an area where water restrictions are imposed.
So to recap – why use a water saving shower head? Not only is it good for your pocket, but, it is also good for the planet. By making the switch you will save water, and by conserving water you save energy. That means significant reductions in your water and energy bills, all the while minimising your carbon footprint.
Gary Mays, born and educated in Auckland, New Zealand, has called the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia, home since 1986. Currently, the Executive Director at Whywait Plumbing Pty Ltd and Aquatemp Environmental Solutions Pty Ltd. He’s a licensed plumber with an impressive international business background in New Zealand, Australia, and Singapore. Gary is known for his vigorous advocacy in plumbing, water conservation, sustainability, and small business growth. He is an influential and forward-thinking leader, a frequent voice in modern media for his industry insights and deep dedication to ecological, environmental, and professional causes.
