Low-flow showerhead: half the water and hot water

A standard showerhead uses 12 liters per minute. An eco showerhead with flow limiter cuts that to 6 liters, and you notice no difference in pressure because the design is cleverer. Five-minute daily showers instead of ten: save 30 € yearly per family.

Step by step

Water flow = volume per time. Normal showerheads have large holes (lots of water, fast out). Eco showerheads use pressure chamber + small precise jets: water hits deflector plate, becomes turbulent, creates pressure illusion. Feels like 12 L/min but only 6 L/min. Bonus: less water = less to heat (if using warm water). An average tankless heater saves 30-50% hot-water energy this way.

Step by step

1. 1. Buy eco showerhead (10-20 € at DIY store)Simple model without electronics: e.g. Hansgrohe Croma Select S, Grohe Valia, all work with pressure optics. Pricier versions have massage modes etc., simple one saves just as much.
2. 2. Unscrew old showerhead (counter-clockwise)Most showerheads are simply screwed on. At wall top sits a threaded socket (surface thread, often M24). Old head turn until loose, unscrew.
3. 3. Check threads + wrap tapeThreads on new head should be clean. If lime/rust: clean with vinegar water or damp cloth. Then wrap thread-seal tape (PTFE, ~2 €) 3-4x around threads (direction: clockwise toward use). Prevents water leaks.
4. 4. Screw new eco showerhead on (clockwise)New head into threads, hand-turn until snug. With pipe wrench (gently!) final 1-2 turns, but not brutal (breaks otherwise).
5. 5. Water test: feel pressureTurn on water, pressure should feel pleasant (not like toothbrush). If too weak: fine-hole plate is clogged (lime), brush + vinegar + 10 min soak.

Worked example

How much hot-water cost do YOU save with eco showerhead?