Are you scratching your head, wondering why your shower head pressure is so low? It can be tempting to run off and buy a new shower head right away, but to really address water pressure issues, you need to first understand shower head flow rates.

In the United States, every shower head is designed to restrict the flow of water to a maximum flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute since 1992. And in some states and municipalities, local governments have set flow rate maximums even lower.

That may not sound like a lot, but it’s like going through 2.5 jugs of milk from the store in just a minute. And most showers are MUCH longer than a minute!

According to Home Water Works, in "an average home, showers are typically the third largest water use after toilets and clothes washers. The average American shower uses 17.2 gallons (65.1 liters) and lasts for 8.2 minutes at an average flow rate of 2.1 gallons per minute (GPM) (7.9 lpm)."

So, what does shower head flow rate mean for your water pressure? Read on for our full breakdown of how flow rates are determined and how they impact your shower experience.

What Is GPM?

GPM, or gallons per minute, measures how much water flows through your shower head every 60 seconds. It’s the easiest way to compare how “strong” or “efficient” a shower head really is.

A 2.5 GPM shower head uses 2.5 gallons of water every minute. Multiply that by your typical 10-minute shower, and you’ve just used 25 gallons of water!

GPM is not just about water usage, either. It also plays a huge role in your overall shower experience, impacting:

• Water Pressure: Higher GPM models generally deliver a more powerful, full-coverage spray. Low-flow shower heads conserve water but rely on design features - like optimized spray nozzles or pressure-boosting technology - to maintain a satisfying spray.
  
  

• Temperature Consistency: A lower flow rate can make it easier for your water heater to keep up with your shower, reducing sudden drops in temperature mid-rinse.
  
  

• Utility Bills: The less water you use, the less you’ll spend heating and pumping it. Choosing the right GPM can make a noticeable difference in both your water and energy costs over time.

Types of Shower Flow Rates

As we’ve already discussed, when it comes to shower performance, flow rate is everything. But as water conservation efforts and shower head technology have both evolved, finding the right flow rates for your shower is not as straightforward as you might think.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common flow rates and what they mean for your shower experience.

1. Standard Flow (2.5 GPM)

This is the federal maximum flow rate for shower heads and the most powerful option still available in the United States. A 2.5 GPM shower head delivers a full, strong spray (assuming you’re not facing another cause of low water pressure).

If you're looking for the most pressure and your state doesn’t have local restrictions on shower flow rate, go for a 2.5 GPM model. 

Our Recommendation: The HammerHead® High-Pressure 3-Spray Shower Head and 2.5 GPM Handheld Shower Head both offer maximum flow with pressure-optimized metal construction that lasts.

2. Low Flow (2.0 GPM)

Low-flow shower heads are designed to conserve water without sacrificing performance. They use up to 20% less water than standard models and may carry the EPA’s   WaterSense Certification, which verifies strong performance and water efficiency.

According to the EPA, "products bearing the WaterSense label have been independently certified to perform well; help save water, energy, and money; and encourage innovation in manufacturing." As it stands today, shower heads with the WaterSense label must have a Flow Rate of 2.0 GPM or less.

The good news? You can still enjoy a powerful rinse with a lower-flow shower. With modern nozzle technology, you can still enjoy a powerful rinse while saving on both water and heating costs. 

3. Eco-Performance (1.5 GPM or Less)

You may think that 2.0 GPM is the lowest shower head flow rate, but that's not so. 

There are shower heads called "Eco Performance" shower heads, typically marked with an "EP" in their model number. These shower heads have a maximum flow rate of 1.5 GPM. That's 40% less water output than the 2.5 GPM flow rate.  

P.S. You don't have to be mandated by a state to use a Shower Head with a 2.0 or 1.5 GPM Flow Rate. Other motivations, besides state regulations, could be:

• Lowering your water bill

• Conserving a low water supply, such as on a boat, RV, or if you're on well water.

• Sincere concern for the environment

4. Large Flow (3.0–5.0 GPM)

You won’t find these so-called “large flow shower heads” in standard retail stores anymore - and for good reason. Shower heads over 2.5 GPM are not legal in most states and can significantly increase both water and energy waste.

Instead, if you’re looking for a full-coverage shower experience without breaking regulations, consider a dual shower system - pairing a high-quality standard flow shower head with an 8- or 12-inch rain shower head for the widest spray. 

Understanding Federal and State Flow Rate Rules

The 2.5-gallon flow rate that has been standard in the U.S. since 1992 was first enacted under the Energy Policy Act. It was designed to promote water conservation around the country while still ensuring a comfortable shower experience.

Since then, several states have taken the restrictions even further - particularly in areas that experience ongoing drought and water scarcity concerns.

These stricter restrictions include:

• California: 1.8 GPM maximum

• Colorado: 1.8 GPM maximum

• New York: 1.8 GPM maximum

Some cities within other states have even adopted unique municipal-level flow rate limits to support local conservation efforts.

All of these regulations mean that shower heads sold or installed in those areas must meet the lower flow rate, and retailers (even online retailers like HammerHead® Showers) are not allowed to sell higher-GPM models there. 

So, if you’re shopping online and wondering why certain shower heads can’t ship to your state, that’s why.

How Your Shower Head Impacts Your Flow Rate

While shower head flow rate restrictions may seem limiting, they’re a key part of environmental efforts. And they’ve actually sparked major innovation in the shower industry. 

Manufacturers like HammerHead® Showers are continually developing new designs to deliver a high-pressure spray, even with lower flow rates.

At HammerHead®, we do this with:

• Pressure-boosting spray nozzles: Our proprietary silicone nozzles concentrate water through smaller openings to pressurize the water.
  
  

• Solid metal construction: This prevents pressure loss that can occur with cheap plastic designs.
  
  

• Multiple spray settings: Give users flexibility between wide, massage, and mist modes while staying compliant with flow rate regulations.

Our Expert Recommendations

Now that you're armed with more information on the different shower head flow rates, certifications, and labels, you'll be able to find the flow rate that best meets your needs - without any surprises.

One of the unique things about HammerHead® Showers (formerly The Shower Head Store) is that all of our shower heads are personally used by our staff. And we only recommend shower heads that meet our strict criteria of durability, performance, and design. 

For those of you struggling to find the best shower head for you, we've got you covered with our expert top picks.

Best Low-Flow Shower Head 

Our professional plumbers and design experts have chosen the top 2 low-flow shower heads. This pick is for everyone from California, Colorado, New York City, and anywhere else with strict flow rate restrictions.  

Both options below currently meet those guidelines, while still offering a high-performing spray and features.

2-Inch Fixed Shower Head

Plain and simple, a smaller shower head diameter means higher pressure. That's why our California-Compliant Solid Metal 2-Inch Low-Flow Shower Head is the perfect solution for households where water conservation is a concern.

 

Now available in 4 commercial-grade finishes, this economical powerhouse will transform your shower experience in style.

3-Spray Handheld Shower Head

Adhering to flow restrictions doesn't mean limited options. 

With three dynamic spray settings – wide, massage, and mist – the HammerHead® 3-Spray Handheld Shower Head Set can be tailored to your specific needs while staying California Compliant.

 

Best High-Pressure Shower Head 

For everyone else not restricted by flow rate laws, here are some shower heads that truly deliver an exceptional high-pressure flow every time:

1-Spray High-Pressure Handheld Shower Head

Whether you have low water pressure in your house or just want to kick things up a notch, this classic single-spray shower head uses silicone nozzles to deliver the ultimate high-pressure flow.

Find Your Perfect Flow

When it comes to shower performance, flow rate matters more than most people realize. 

At HammerHead® Showers, we believe you shouldn’t have to choose between a strong shower and responsible water use. Every shower head we sell has been tested by our team for performance, durability, and design, so you can feel confident you’re getting the best of both worlds.

Explore our full collection of high-pressure and low-flow solid metal shower heads to upgrade your daily routine - and experience the difference that great engineering (and the right GPM) can make.