Did you know New York dictates the water pressure in our showers and there is a legal way to easily boost the flow?

Inside every showerhead is a restrictor that reduces the flow and pressure in showers. It's been that way since the Energy Policy and Conservation Act went into effect in 1994 as a way to save water and lower energy costs.

New York Flow Rates

In July of 2012, the city of New York established a maximum flow rate in showers of 2.5 gallons per minute.

These regulations are directed at the maximum flow rates that can be manufactured and sold and most are set at a water pressure of 80 psi.

All manufacturers are required to place a plastic device commonly called a restrictor in showerheads to reduce flow rates. The law only applies to companies making the showerheads, not what you do with them in your own home.

Tero Vesalainen/Think Stock
Tero Vesalainen/Think Stock
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Boost Pressure

Want to boost your pressure in the shower? You can take out that plastic restrictor and it's completely legal.

All you'll need is a pair of needle-nose pliers. First, you'll take out the washer. Then pull out the flow restrictor. Don't forget to replace the washer before reinstalling your showerhead.

Credit - Silver Cymbal via YouTube
Credit - Silver Cymbal via YouTube
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Credit - Silver Cymbal via YouTube
Credit - Silver Cymbal via YouTube
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Better Showers

You may use more water but you also may take shorter showers with better pressure. You definitely won't go back to flow-restricted showers.

Guess what just jumped into the top spot on most honey-do lists.

Young man is singing in the shower
bowie15/Think Stock
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