Why does my shower feel weak even though I replaced the showerhead?
A weak shower is often caused by low baseline water pressure, common in apartments, older homes, and multi‑unit buildings. While a showerhead can’t increase pressure, certain designs can significantly improve how strong the shower feels.
Can a showerhead really help with low water pressure?
Yes — within limits. A showerhead cannot fix plumbing issues or increase PSI, but well‑engineered designs can improve perceived pressure by optimizing spray velocity, nozzle geometry, and water distribution.
Are high‑pressure showerheads bad for plumbing?
No. Showerheads do not increase water pressure inside pipes, so they do not add stress to plumbing systems. As long as a showerhead meets water‑efficiency standards, it is safe for residential plumbing.
Do high‑pressure showerheads use more water?
Not necessarily. Many high‑pressure showerheads are designed to remain water‑efficient while improving spray performance. Flow rate (GPM) determines water usage, while design determines how that water feels.
Why do some water‑saving showerheads feel weak?
Some water‑efficient showerheads rely heavily on flow restriction. In homes with limited pressure, this can reduce spray force and coverage, making the shower feel weaker despite lower water use.
Is removing a flow restrictor the same as using a high‑pressure showerhead?
No. Removing a flow restrictor increases water flow but does not increase pressure and may violate local regulations. High‑pressure showerheads are designed to improve perceived pressure without removing restrictors or increasing water use.
Are high‑pressure showerheads legal?
Yes. High‑pressure showerheads sold today are designed to comply with water‑efficiency standards. They improve perceived pressure through design rather than exceeding regulated flow limits.
Do high‑pressure showerheads work in apartments?
They often work especially well in apartments. Since plumbing changes aren’t usually possible, showerheads that optimize spray performance within pressure limits can significantly improve the shower experience.
How do I know if my home has low water pressure?
Signs include weak spray, slow flow from multiple fixtures, or noticeable pressure drops during peak usage times. Pressure issues that affect the entire home may require plumbing inspection.
What makes Oxygenics showerheads different?
Oxygenics designs high‑pressure showerheads specifically for real‑world plumbing conditions. Instead of attempting to increase water pressure, Oxygenics focuses on spray velocity, nozzle design, and balanced water distribution to improve perceived pressure while remaining water‑efficient.