"Pressure-wise, didn't notice much difference, but water usage did drop a bit."
Had a similar experience when I installed a low-flow showerhead last year. Installation was simple enough—just needed some plumber's tape to avoid leaks. Initially, it felt like the water pressure was slightly weaker, but honestly, after a couple of showers, I didn't even notice anymore. The real difference showed up on the water bill; not massive savings, but noticeable enough to justify the switch if you're budget-conscious. Worth considering if you're already happy with the faucet aerators.
Good to hear it worked out for you. I've noticed a lot of people initially worry about pressure loss with low-flow fixtures, but as you pointed out, it's often minimal or unnoticeable after a short adjustment period. From my experience, the key is choosing a quality brand—some cheaper models can feel noticeably weaker. But overall, even small savings on the water bill add up over time, so it's usually worth the minor trade-off.
Glad someone else mentioned the quality factor—have you noticed a big difference in durability between brands too? I've found that some cheaper low-flow fixtures start off okay but degrade pretty quickly, making the pressure drop more noticeable after a few months. But yeah, overall, once you get used to it, the savings are definitely worth it. Did you notice much of a change in your water bill yet?
"I've found that some cheaper low-flow fixtures start off okay but degrade pretty quickly"
Haha yep, been there! Installed a budget-friendly showerhead at my place—it felt great at first, then three months in, it was like standing under a sad drizzle. 😅 Switched to a mid-range brand and it's holding up way better. Haven't seen huge savings on the bill yet, but every bit counts, right? Hang in there—sounds like you're on the right track!
Yeah, cheap fixtures can be a gamble. One thing I've noticed is that mineral buildup tends to hit the budget ones harder—probably lower-quality materials or something. If you do stick with a cheaper model, regular cleaning helps a ton. Just soak the showerhead in vinegar every month or two... keeps it from turning into that sad drizzle you mentioned, haha. Might not solve everything, but it definitely extends their lifespan.
