How Many GPM Is a Shower? What to Know Before You Upgrade Your Bathroom
When you're upgrading your bathroom, your shower head might seem like a small detail—but it has a big impact on your water usage, monthly utility bills, and overall shower experience. One key term you'll see when shopping for a new shower head is GPM, or gallons per minute. This number refers to the flow rate for shower heads—essentially, how much water is released every minute you're in the shower.
At HomePride Bath, we believe in helping Colorado homeowners find the perfect balance between comfort and conservation. Here's what you should know about GPM, water conservation, and choosing a shower head that meets your needs while helping you save water.
Why GPM Matters in Your Bathroom
Since 1992, federal regulations have capped the maximum flow rate for shower heads at 2.5 GPM. But newer models—especially those certified by the EPA's WaterSense program—use less water without compromising performance.
For example:
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A traditional 2.5 GPM shower head uses 25 gallons in a 10-minute shower.
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A low-flow 1.8 GPM model uses just 18 gallons.
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A high-efficiency 1.5 GPM model cuts that even further, using just 15 gallons.
Reducing the amount of water used per shower may not seem like much at first glance. But over time, especially in busy households, the savings add up quickly. According to the EPA, showers account for nearly 1.2 trillion gallons of water used in the U.S. each year.
Finding the Sweet Spot: Water Pressure and the Shower Experience
Many people worry that switching to a low-flow shower head will mean lower water pressure and a lackluster shower. But technology has come a long way.
Kohler Katalyst® air induction shower heads are a prime example. These innovative heads mix air into the water stream, creating larger, fuller water droplets. The result? A luxurious, drenching spray that delivers a spa-like feel—even at just 1.8 GPM.
By using less water while enhancing coverage, Katalyst® shower heads offer one of the best combinations of water savings and shower enjoyment available today.
Go Green with WaterSense Kohler Products
Kohler offers a wide range of WaterSense-certified shower heads and fixtures. Products with the WaterSense label are independently tested and verified to meet performance standards while reducing water usage by at least 20% compared to conventional models.
Whether you choose a 2.0 GPM model for a balanced flow or a 1.5 GPM option for maximum savings, WaterSense Kohler products help you:
In some areas, state and local governments even offer rebates or incentives for installing WaterSense fixtures.
Your Next Step: Upgrade with Confidence
At HomePride, we’re more than just a bathroom remodeling company—we’re your local guides to smarter, more sustainable choices. Whether you’re converting a tub to a shower or building a brand-new bath oasis, we’ll help you find the right flow rate for your shower head, customize your shower setup, and improve your home's water efficiency.
Give us a call at (303) 928-6696 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation. Let’s create a beautiful bathroom that conserves water and elevates your daily routine.
Coley O. McAvoy
With 30+ years of experience in content marketing, Coley helps Colorado homeowners simplify the remodeling process by breaking down design trends, pricing insights, and aging-in-place solutions. Coley has appeared on CBS and Fox News, and his work has been featured in industry outlets across multiple channels. When not simplifying remodel decisions, you'll find him camping throughout Colorado with his wife of 14 years and their two young daughters.
