Water efficient showerheads

During the next 20 years, water use associated with showers is expected to almost double. With high flow-rate 'power showers' growing in popularity, the water and energy use of showering can be greater than that of a bath.

Obviously there are big implications for us. So between April 2006 and May 2008 we produced a ground-breaking body of research on low flow showerheads. The studies we have undertaken demonstrate the high water and energy savings that these devices can achieve, and show how their savings can be realised in an economic manner.

Why did we do this?

Around 20% of energy use in the home is associated with the heating of water. Reducing shower flow rates can save water and also reduce energy consumption; therefore reducing consumers' bills and carbon emissions.Our work started in 2006 when we set out to investigate the potential of water efficient showerheads. Since then, we've been working with key partners to produce a comprehensive body of research that examines the performance of - and customer reaction to - these showerheads.

In 2006-07 we sponsored a detailed study by Liverpool John Moores University. Lab testing of over 20 different showerheads and flow restrictors was carried out to assess their effectiveness when judged against key customer satisfaction criteria. The devices were also tested in 18 customers' homes.

We learned that the aerated showerhead technology was the most suitable for further study. We went on to evaluate the real benefits of aerated showerheads - offering homes in Warrington the chance to have a free 'Visit and Fix' household audit. 212 homes took up the chance to have at least one showerhead installed. Detailed meter readings followed so we could evaluate the volume of water saved.

Next steps

Our studies show that you can save 38 litres of water per property per day, assuming an average of five minutes per shower. But it's not just water we can save - there's energy, carbon and money savings to factor in. We discovered that the energy used in the home to heat and pump water for personal use is around 30 times that used by water companies to supply water and dispose of wastewater.

The way forward

In 2008-09 we're partnering with the Environment Agency and a local housing provider to trial direct installation of showerheads in existing social housing. Overall we're committed to helping make these showers a reality, but realise that the way forward is for us to collaborate with partner organisations and other companies.