SeatBeeSateYSK You can drastically improve the pressure of your shower head
Removing the flow restrictor valve on your shower head takes less than 60 seconds of work and can drastically improve the water pressure from your shower head....
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IowaManWhat are the potential downsides to this? In other words, why isn't it like this stock?
The water restrictor is there because it's purpose is to save water. There are really no downsides to removing it if your pressure is low.
CalchargerThe downside is water bill consumption and an increase in your hot water bill, whether that's NG or electric
Don't forget too, depending on water tank size and people in the household you will run out of hot water faster. If this is normally 1.5 gpm or 2.5 gpm and you remove it it might make it 3-4 gpm or more. That will mean a 50 gallon tank would run out of hot water in about 12-15 minutes,(it will heat up some so you might get a few more gallons and minutes. So let's say 20 minutes. If it is just you, no problem. If you have a family/roommates it might be a problem if they are all getting ready around the same time.