I found that removing the restrictor was actually too powerful in one of our showers (it splashed everywhere), so we compromised by drilling out the small holes just slightly larger with a very small drill bit and it works FANTASTIC! Thanks so much for your tip of removing it, we went from lousy shower pressure to what we consider perfect.
I watch a lot of contractors channels on various topics and you're one of my favorite diy channels because you're not only skilled but a really good teacher. finding people who can teach these sorts of things is actually quite rare. I know a lot of handy people who know how to get stuff done but few of them are good teachers too.
I spent money on an expensive shower head only to be disappointed by low pressure. Immediately after this video I removed the flow constrictor. Flash flood warning baby!!! OMG, I love it!
Great tip! I installed a ball valve type restrictor ahead of my hand held shower head. That way I can adjust the flow - lower for normal showering but higher to rinse during shower cleaning. As always, thank you Leah!
It's largely to comply with California mandates. Low flow will also cause fluctuations in temperature as some anti scald features on shower valves won't function well under low flow conditions.
@@FM19MONTH I had the same problem of water temperature fluctuating. I have tankless hot water heater which is prone to do this on low flow. What I discovered by accident is to first turn the water on as hot as possible, no cold water. When the hot water is flowing through, I then adjust the temperature to where I want it and it doesn't fluctuate anymore during that shower.
Perfect timing! I am having the identical water flow problems and will try this. Thank you Leah! Keep doing what you do. Not only have I learned so much from your channel, my confidence has left the scales! I feel so confident tackling any job around my home now, thanks to you!
Also these flow restrictors can clog with hard water deposits or debris and cause major issues as well. They are more harm than good in my opinion. I had to deal with them in the newest house I bought in the faucets. If you want to limit water output, slightly shut off your valves to the faucet.
I remodel bathrooms for a major bathroom remodeling company in the south, no water shortages here. We take the restrictor out on every job. People are always happy to have better pressure.
I don't have cable but she really should have a TV show, if she doesn't already have one. She's very knowledgeable, teaches revelant and a good teacher
Sadly, this video was not online when I went looking for how to do this last year. As always, Leah presents the most useful home-modification data in the most succinct and to the point manner possible. This little hack improved my shower experience overall, and for the loony tunes who think this wastes water you should know that if you're in it to clean up and not just play around, removing this restrictor in an otherwise decent showerhead will reduce your actual in-shower time by around 10 minutes. What's the math on that? 2 gallons per minute for 20 minutes vs 3 gallons per minute for 10 minutes...
We live in a 60-year-old house and have never had good water pressure. I know the pipes probably have a lot of build up in them. I tried this hack and it made enough difference to be noticeable. Thanks! You and your channel are GREAT!
So happy to see you’re back! I’ve been in construction for over 25 years, and I’m still learning every day. Whether I know the content of any particular video already or not (and anyone who thinks they know it all is wrong!) you are a joy to watch and I love you’re great attitude and easy to grock explanations. Welcome back!
My wife and I love your channel for so many reasons. Your clear and positive presentation style make even the most timid home-maintenance newbie feel welcome. We've been homeowners for many years, and we _still_ watch because more often than not, we'll learn either _why_ we do a task the way you do it, or your _better_ way to do a task than the way we do. We can pop up a seejanedrill video from last week or last year, and the content is _still useful._ You are an amazing person, Leah. Thank you so much for what you do!
@@PamelaGreen354 It is restricted to usually 40 psi. But where your water line first enters your home there should be a pressure regulator which is just a brass colored fixture with a lock nut and bolt. If you're very careful you can adjust this by using a good water pressure gauge (inexpensive to buy) that you either screw onto an outdoor hose bib or onto your water heater drain; then open it up when gauge is secured and be sure there are no leaks . I've got mine set to 68 psi which is a good compromise to protect plumbing, water heaters, etc. but still have good pressure throughout the home. They also make fully adjustable pressure regulators which has a knob with the pressure settings marked onto it and it's pretty accurate. You'll either need an existing shut-off valve before the pressure regulator, or have to turn your water off at the meter before replacing this.
So many people are deprived of a "good" shower because of these things. Get rid of them. Thank you for bringing up the topic and fix for it. Your videos are fantastic.
I had to do this last month. Here in Puerto Rico our water pressure is not the best. Pulled the cartridge out and HUGE difference. This is a great tip vid!!
This deserves a comment thank you Leah when I moved and bought new showerheads I was so glad that I also had some older ones you can water your grass fill a swimming pool but yet you can’t wash a babies diaper in the toilet with the low water level you can’t wash your hands properly unless you Spend twice the time And they’re finding because low water level washing machines aren’t really cleaning the clothes the way they should that’s why they’re coming back with more water in the washing machines so I do appreciate your comments people just need to learn how to turn off the water if they brush their teeth maybe not take long showers the people are still taking baths Filling up the water even if it’s slow
I have a lot more to say they tell you to run your water throughout your house every day before you drink it so it runs through the contaminants is that not a waste of water also you have water treatment plants what is recyclable plastic isn’t forget you got these companies filling up bottles instead of just taking one glass and filling it up when you want to drink they took away the drinking fountains for people in the cities that saved plastic also not to mention all the fountains that they have out there that everybody has for bird’s ice rinks Then before you throw your recyclables out you’re supposed to rinse them out come on just use your common sense
Always a simple and useful tip from you. You are a most beautiful person. All the tips you share are so helpful and you make it so doable for anyone. Thank goodness we have a person like you.
Glad you're back Leah, and looking better than ever. The manufacturers really should disclose that they have these things in the instructions. And they don't save water, because you spend more time in the shower trying to get clean.
@@huddy7659 I know which of the people will be complaining the loudest when water shortages force restrictions and rationing. That time is coming soon.
A lot of us live in areas of the world with absolutely NO water shortages, ever, period. If some people choose to live in arid parts of the country, don’t make the rest of us be responsible for your choices. YOU can use all the water-saving devices you need. The rest of us say “no thanks.”
Love it - I'm on my own well and always thought there was something wrong with the pump in the well. Followed your instructions and now my problem seems solved. Thank you!
I did that on all my showers. Best thing I ever did! I know some people are into water conservation but I just HAVE to have a strong shower!!! lol. Great tip!
I didn't find that I conserved water when using a shower head with the flow restrictor because I stayed in the shower longer trying to get my hair and body rinsed.
@@cityofoaks Same here! Mine doubled my shower time, so I lost time without saving much water. I was covered in soap suds, waiting for the water to rinse me fully.
EXCELLENT must-do shower improvement. Delta heads are a total pain though because the stamped-in restrictor spins in the head and does not come out easily, this is where I will use a 1/2" drill bit and be very carful not to let the bit go inside the head. Leah you're my favorite!
California dropped the rate to 2 GPM for shower heads, and manufacturers nationwide have followed suit so they don't get fined if one of their products gets offered in the state. So this is great advice for everyone else!
You need to rinse off and some you the water in pain management...if your water is restricted, you often just end up spending twice as much time under the water rinsing off.
I just replaced my sink spigot on the other side of the country and it had a 1.3 gallon restrictor saying the blame went to California on the package.But I quickly learned that if you measure up the restrictor in H x W x D and thread pitch , they are all metric these days. that one can go to Amazon and buy one of the desired flow rate ,well worth the cost.
Flow restrictors have existed since the 80s. Fully remove it, and you’re using more than 5gpm easily. So, let’s assume you’re actually paying attention and really shower in half the time, but still enjoy your shower. At 10 minutes unrestricted, you’re at a minimum of 50gallons down the drain. Flow restricted to 2gpm, at 20 minutes you’ve used 40gallons. The longer you take to shower, the more that waste grows. Do what you want, but be aware of your use. If only to save yourself some cash when your water bill comes.
Thanks Leah. This is timely for my interest. I'm also having excess lime issues that is restricting water flow. I usually soak the shower head in vinegar and the water flows better for a while. We have really hard water here.
Weird about Leah, not only "I can do this", but I can do this right now. I always watch, then jump up and grab the pliers or screw driver and get it done. Thanks Honey.
Great video, I just did this the other night, the new shower head said 40% more pressure 🤦🏼♂️, it was awful so I looked and removed a little o-ring that was blocking the holes and now the family says wow what a great shower head. Shower heads can be expensive $$$$ little items. Leah ALWAYS has wonderful ideas and the best way to get it across to the viewers.
Wow! This is great! Thanks Leah, I was about to buy another shower head. What happens in our area is that calcium and minerals accumulate in the flow restrictor and the shower becomes too weak in water flow leading to longer showers. Saved time and water today. Thank you.
I am so glad you made this video. I had no idea. I bought a new shower head and the flow was horrible. I was ready to go get a new one. I just removed mine. Thank you so much. 👍
I treat water usage in the same way I treat fuel consumption. It isn't how many miles you drive and the speed thats matters, so much as the time the engine is running. A quick shower with full pressure will use less water than a longer shower with less water that simply won't rinse well. I think the additional water consumption is minimal. Nice video- you just earned a new subscriber!
Hi Leah! I'd like to advise your viewers (with your permission), that flow restrictors usually collect debris developing the pressure drop issues. They can be removed, cleaned and reinstalled especially if the user has an instant on water heater (those units are very keen on water flow for delivering the temperature you set them at). Thanks again and I LOVE YOUR MESSAGE OF YOU CAN DO IT!
Oh my that's a tiny opening. I remember finding similar flow restrictors in hose fittings when I was cleaning cars. The difference was night and day. I'm glad I have an older shower head. Thanks Leah!
Thanks so much ! The plumber told me I had low pressure bc my pex is a bit smaller than standard. He was going off about having to re pipe the whole place. That’s not what I had him over for but it came up in conversation. I come across your video randomly and sure enough this solves the whole problem. I’ll come check out what you have to say before I get any “expert” advice. I can’t recall the first video I saw of yours but I certainly used the information obtained from it and am now going down the “see Jane drill rabbit hole”. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge 🙏
I’ve been removing those stupid things since they started being used. I’ve had a flow restrictor that wouldn’t come out. I’ve actually had to drill a hole in one.
I have drilled a lot of shower heads as well. It's worth the time to do it. It's all fine and dandy to try and save water but if you have to spend 3 times as long to get rinsed in the shower you aren't saving anything 😉
I just commented that I only turn the water on long enough to get wet, then I wash, then I turn the water back on to rinse. I'm on a well, too, but I was going to do this anyway since the water is only on for two brief periods. I live alone, though, so I'm the only one using the shower.
Doesn't this choice depend on your local water situation? We've got a good regulator before the water enters the house and we've also got a chlorine filter on the shower which restricts water flow. So there are other factors to consider.
Bravo, Leah! I'm a long-time DIY'er, grow up with a handyman dad, so I knew about these. But I haven't changed one out in a long while, so your video was a great reminder of what to do. One note: I just installed a newer Kohler (COSTCO) double-head, and the flow was awful. The restrictor is a little different. There's still the O-X plastic piece, but then there's a small rubber gasket underneath. The entire plastic is sealed in place and cannot be removed, but just taking out the plastic part with needle-nose pliers and then the gasket using a very pointy tweezer did the trick! Amazing water pressure now and the shower heads work like they are "supposed" to. You are a pleasure to watch, especially since I think we had the same kinds of influencers in our lives. :-)
I Appreciate your straight to the point videos. You could easy add in minutes of backstories and fluff, but u get straight to the point/hack/tip. Sometimes its nice not having to speed up or FF a video and ends up being something well known. Ha. I also like the different topics u come up with
I've been doing anything connected with home repair, Master Carpentry and commercial construction work for almost 35 years. It's been a passion and although I know most of what your show, there is absolutely no way I could ever explain, relay or advise anyone step by step as accurately and easy to understand as you do. I watch you simply because your that darn great. Amazing person and awesome skill set to show beginners as well as seasoned trades people. Keep it up. We so need people like you in this world. Good bless you !
I stay in a hotel when I’m at work and I’ve noticed on some rooms someone has taken the flow restricters out and you can have a much quicker shower. I try to remember the room numbers and request them when I return. 😂
A lot of hotels have high flow rates that I've noticed. It prevents bad reviews on the internet. They just add the additional cost of the water onto your bill.
I sure wish I knew this back when I had my old apartment. I dreaded the shower because it barely flowed enough to rinse my hair well and it would take forever. Don’t think it was conserving water by the amount of time it took to bath and get rinsed. Your way would definitely be faster and better. Anyway- thank you so much! It’s nice to learn something every time I watch.
See I'm all for conservation and water, but if you want a effective shower than remove those restrictors. Leah, I didn't inow this, but awesome video, very helpful and now I learned something new :) Hope you're enjoying Florida
Brilliant. Thank you. I enjoy your voice. Thank you thank you for not yelling or talking about other stuff and just keeping to topic. Thank you thank you.
That's good to know. The video is a good one. Taking shorter showers with full water flow is a way to save water and reduce the stress of low water pressure showers 💕🌱
Flow restrictors are the dumbest things ever created for conserving anything. If you have a flow restrictor you end up having to shower for longer, wasting just as much if not more water than if you didn't have the restrictor.
The only way your statement is true is if you are turning the water on and off during your shower while washing. If you get in, leave the water on until you’re completely done you will use quite a bit more water even with taking a slightly shorter shower. You will also use a lot more hot water. I have personally remove the restrictors and after a few months and running out of hot water more frequently I reinstalled them.
@@Whodey-hd2dd Of course I leave the water running. I have a life and need to get in and out as quickly as possible while still getting clean. I would turn the water on and off if their were a limited supply of water because of an emergency, but as I have a job and there's plenty of water, I run the water without turning it off. What I wouldn't do for any logical reason is use a restrictor. That nonsense has been debunked repeatedly.
@@dovan4092 exactly who has debunked it? I know I’ve used it both ways and watch my water usage go up and see that I run out of hot water quicker without a restrictor. I have also made plenty of service calls where the complaint is running out of hot water quicker. Do time tests with restrictors and without restrictors. From my first hand experience I have a hard time believe your “debunked” claim.
@@dovan4092 if you are happy with the pros and cons of removing the restrictors then awesome. But spreading false information like you will use the same amount of water is just wrong in my opinion.
ANOTHER great tip! I've watched a bunch of your videos lately and they've helped me a lot! This latest video showed me something I didn't know, and after looking at a shower head I've been disappointed with, sure enough, there was the little plastic restrictor... NOW I'm getting much improved pressure/flow--thank you!
🤜💥🤛 I've incorporated a 'flow restrictor' hand valve up there on the downpipe. I too have the type of shower / tub wall valve that doesn't restrict flow, only mixes hot/cold, so an actual valve is needed if you want to cut the flow volume when appropriate. That said, I've also removed any internal restrictors from the pipes and tubing as I also need 100% full blast flow occasionally.. works perfectly in all my showers. 🥂
Leah, must say one of the one of the best videos ever. You nailed it. One for us little folks. Amazing how the enjoyment of a good shower can motivate you to achieve anything. You rock and God Bless. USMC/USAF Ret.
Very very informative. Such small "adjustments" for a home owner can make one feel better in the .bathroom, kitchen and bed room. Lets not forget the workshop too. Peace David. I/we await your new digs video and you setting up your workshop. DVD:)
I had seen this video a while back, and we just had to put in a new shower head that the water pressure was just awful. You never felt like you got all the soap off so I was staying in the shower far longer than usual trying to feel clean. All of a sudden, I remembered this video, and we immediately removed the flow restrictor. HALLELUJAH! I had the best shower I had in weeks!
It doesn’t really show it on video because it doesn’t increase the pressure. It will increase the flow but not really the pressure. This is why if your home has proper water pressure I never recommend removing them. If you aren’t happy with the pressure there are shower heads that will give better pressure. Removing restrictors will defiantly dump out more water. But you will 100% use more water in general as well as run out of hot water much quicker if you have a tank style water heater. Unless you turn the water on and off during your shower.
I'll try it. When I'm in the shower, I just turn the water on long enough to get wet, then wash from head to toe, then turn the water back on to rinse. I'm trying to conserve as it is, but this would be a nice improvement when the water is on, I must admit.
This is the first thing I do whenever I move to a new house. I'd wager that in the real world they don't actually save much water, as most people just end up needing to shower longer as a result of the decreased pressure.
Anyway corporations need to hold up their end of the deal and quit pinning it all on individual people's consumption. They pollute a ton of air, water, and soil to make all their crap that doesn't even last, purposely designed to break so you gotta keep buying. Including those shower heads made of that awful cracky plastic!!
When a water restricted was added to my shower I did start taking longer showers. I really should just take it out and have a decent satisfying shower instead of a long mediocre one.
@@drasco61084 I agree with most of what you've said however the reason so much plumbing nowadays is made of cheap plastic is due to government mandates against using brass, which contains trace amounts of lead. (I'm a manufacturing engineer and a higher-up in one of the companies we deal with (Delta Faucet) told me that was their main reason to switch to so many plastic parts and so much of their plumbing parts are now made of plastic instead of brass. (Plastic extrusion with its high degree of defectivity and scapage during production gives little or no savings in production-costs when compared to brass.)
I successfully removed one of these restrictors from a shower head. But it didn't pop out as easily as you demonstrated. After digging and cutting at it, it finally came out. Maybe different makes and models are designed differently. Am glad I got it out though. I added a shut off attachment behind the shower head to stop the water flow while I soap up and switch the water back on to rinse. Seems a water restrictor still wastes water since it doesn't completely stop the flow of it. Love your videos. 👍
I could happily watch Leah 24/7 there’s some things I might need some I would probably never need and others that leave me saying to myself I wish I had knew this before! The best part without a doubt is hearing Leah say “ you can do this”👍
Thank you so much... I always had excellent water pressure. I purchased a new shower head with a hose. Could not understand why the pressure decreased. Never would have known what the problem was. I came by your video by chance.
I love your videos and I really hope that there are young kids in your neighborhood that have learned so much from you that in return they bring your groceries into the house, mow your lawn and most importantly keep a safe eye on you and your house. God bless you.
Years ago I actually ADDED a flow restrictor to my showerhead. It was very different from the ones used by manufacturers. It was basically a concave washer; hardly had any effect on the water pressure. Just thought I would throw that in there... Leah, glad you were able to make the time for a video. I look forward to them. I hope you and Zak are settling into your new surroundings. Best wishes.
We plumbers have a professional responsibility to conserve water, and some water heater manufacturers recommend leaving this fitting in place to maintain temperature control. Water flow restrictions can also act as a backflow device to prevent contamination of the mains water supplies. It is also the first time I have been disappointed in one of your videos...Also low pressure at the shower is not indicative of low pressure throughout the house... Some people will misunderstand the message. One more point is that once the shower manufacturers cotton onto the tampering of shower valves the manufacturers will simply fit the restrictions into the shower valves as they have in Europe. This stops diy tampering....
@@regular-joe of course. It depends mainly as to how the shower is fitted,and applies more to those showers with flexible hoses, rather than fixed heads, and if the shower is mains fed. Clean mains water passes through the shower head, but once it has it can become contaminated from water in the bath or shower tray. Some bacteria can pass back along the stagnant water remaining in the shower hose into the fresh mains water supplies under certain conditions.
Thank you for taking the time to comment, it's aleays good to hear from brothers in the trades with a different position. Now in all fairness, a flow restrictor is not a backflow device.
With the water pressure so low now it was hard to control water temperature let alone rinse soap out of long hair. When I went to remove the restrictor the little cross part was metal and I had to cut it out. Now I can take a quick shower. Thanks for the great tip.
I found that removing the restrictor was actually too powerful in one of our showers (it splashed everywhere), so we compromised by drilling out the small holes just slightly larger with a very small drill bit and it works FANTASTIC!
Thanks so much for your tip of removing it, we went from lousy shower pressure to what we consider perfect.
I watch a lot of contractors channels on various topics and you're one of my favorite diy channels because you're not only skilled but a really good teacher. finding people who can teach these sorts of things is actually quite rare. I know a lot of handy people who know how to get stuff done but few of them are good teachers too.
I love it when she says at the end, "You can do this".
I spent money on an expensive shower head only to be disappointed by low pressure. Immediately after this video I removed the flow constrictor. Flash flood warning baby!!! OMG, I love it!
Great tip! I installed a ball valve type restrictor ahead of my hand held shower head. That way I can adjust the flow - lower for normal showering but higher to rinse during shower cleaning. As always, thank you Leah!
It's largely to comply with California mandates. Low flow will also cause fluctuations in temperature as some anti scald features on shower valves won't function well under low flow conditions.
I'll betcha this is the reason my temp fluctuates in shower!!! Thank you.
This is especially the case with tankless water heaters that have minimum flow requirements. Rannai, Navient, etc.
@@FM19MONTH I had the same problem of water temperature fluctuating. I have tankless hot water heater which is prone to do this on low flow. What I discovered by accident is to first turn the water on as hot as possible, no cold water. When the hot water is flowing through, I then adjust the temperature to where I want it and it doesn't fluctuate anymore during that shower.
Perfect timing! I am having the identical water flow problems and will try this. Thank you Leah! Keep doing what you do.
Not only have I learned so much from your channel, my confidence has left the scales! I feel so confident tackling any job around my home now, thanks to you!
I can listen to you all day Ms Leah. Don't ever go away.
Agreed
i hated everybody but listen Ms Leah is something else love you
RIGHT! Her voice is super soothing and informative... reassuring❤❤❤❤❤🥂🥂🥂🥂🥂🥂🥂
Her gentle yet thorough style of explanation is much appreciated by dummies like me. A very encouraging teacher she is.
Also these flow restrictors can clog with hard water deposits or debris and cause major issues as well. They are more harm than good in my opinion. I had to deal with them in the newest house I bought in the faucets. If you want to limit water output, slightly shut off your valves to the faucet.
If you want leaks by all means dont open them all the way......those valves are made to be wide open
I remodel bathrooms for a major bathroom remodeling company in the south, no water shortages here. We take the restrictor out on every job. People are always happy to have better pressure.
She's like the Bob Ross of plumbing.
I like that.
High praise indeed😁
I have absolutely no water pressure in my shower so I'm going to go check this I just found your channel and subscribed. 😁👍
Well said! Good analogy
Of anything DIY related
Your like Mr Rogers but for grownups and with tools. We love you.
I agree, I am glad that goes slow with explaining!
I've been taken them out for years. I like the higher pressure as it allows me to spend less time in the shower. Great video!
Thanks for the tip! Leah, like many others, just seeing a notification from See Jane Drill and YOU at the helm, truly brightens my day!
I don't have cable but she really should have a TV show, if she doesn't already have one. She's very knowledgeable, teaches revelant and a good teacher
Sadly, this video was not online when I went looking for how to do this last year. As always, Leah presents the most useful home-modification data in the most succinct and to the point manner possible. This little hack improved my shower experience overall, and for the loony tunes who think this wastes water you should know that if you're in it to clean up and not just play around, removing this restrictor in an otherwise decent showerhead will reduce your actual in-shower time by around 10 minutes. What's the math on that? 2 gallons per minute for 20 minutes vs 3 gallons per minute for 10 minutes...
Thanks Leah! Love your tips & tricks!! Cheers from FL😺
We live in a 60-year-old house and have never had good water pressure. I know the pipes probably have a lot of build up in them. I tried this hack and it made enough difference to be noticeable. Thanks! You and your channel are GREAT!
So happy to see you’re back! I’ve been in construction for over 25 years, and I’m still learning every day. Whether I know the content of any particular video already or not (and anyone who thinks they know it all is wrong!) you are a joy to watch and I love you’re great attitude and easy to grock explanations. Welcome back!
*grok
My wife and I love your channel for so many reasons. Your clear and positive presentation style make even the most timid home-maintenance newbie feel welcome. We've been homeowners for many years, and we _still_ watch because more often than not, we'll learn either _why_ we do a task the way you do it, or your _better_ way to do a task than the way we do. We can pop up a seejanedrill video from last week or last year, and the content is _still useful._ You are an amazing person, Leah. Thank you so much for what you do!
I know it's going to be a good day when I get these videos. Cheers folks.
Yes, I always look forward to Leah's videos as well. Always something helpful and just what you need at the time.
Her videos help with my anxiety.
It was such a tragedy when my flow restrictor magically fell out of my shower head prior to install. *Sniff sniff*
Mine got opened up when I tripped while carrying a power drill.
Heard they restrict your incoming water flow into your new build homes
@@PamelaGreen354 If that is the case, you need a water storage tank with an electric pump.
@@PamelaGreen354 It is restricted to usually 40 psi. But where your water line first enters your home there should be a pressure regulator which is just a brass colored fixture with a lock nut and bolt. If you're very careful you can adjust this by using a good water pressure gauge (inexpensive to buy) that you either screw onto an outdoor hose bib or onto your water heater drain; then open it up when gauge is secured and be sure there are no leaks . I've got mine set to 68 psi which is a good compromise to protect plumbing, water heaters, etc. but still have good pressure throughout the home. They also make fully adjustable pressure regulators which has a knob with the pressure settings marked onto it and it's pretty accurate. You'll either need an existing shut-off valve before the pressure regulator, or have to turn your water off at the meter before replacing this.
@@JRobert111111 Thank You very much for this information 👌🏻🌻
Yeah she's back. 😭❤️😍
And better than ever!!!
I've had the plastic break up inside the faucets and totally mess up the flow. It's good that you are making people aware of this.
Always great advice, Leah! Thank you for your wonderful videos and your contagious smile.
So many people are deprived of a "good" shower because of these things. Get rid of them. Thank you for bringing up the topic and fix for it. Your videos are fantastic.
I came to this channel to confirm I was doing something right. Now I’ve gone down a rabbit hole watching this wonderful woman.
She really is wonderful! She's like finding the friend you never knew you needed!
It's not a rabbit hole when you're learning useful things. I would never consider any of Leah's videos to be a waste of time.
I had to do this last month. Here in Puerto Rico our water pressure is not the best. Pulled the cartridge out and HUGE difference. This is a great tip vid!!
This deserves a comment thank you Leah when I moved and bought new showerheads I was so glad that I also had some older ones you can water your grass fill a swimming pool but yet you can’t wash a babies diaper in the toilet with the low water level you can’t wash your hands properly unless you Spend twice the time And they’re finding because low water level washing machines aren’t really cleaning the clothes the way they should that’s why they’re coming back with more water in the washing machines so I do appreciate your comments people just need to learn how to turn off the water if they brush their teeth maybe not take long showers the people are still taking baths Filling up the water even if it’s slow
I have a lot more to say they tell you to run your water throughout your house every day before you drink it so it runs through the contaminants is that not a waste of water also you have water treatment plants what is recyclable plastic isn’t forget you got these companies filling up bottles instead of just taking one glass and filling it up when you want to drink they took away the drinking fountains for people in the cities that saved plastic also not to mention all the fountains that they have out there that everybody has for bird’s ice rinks Then before you throw your recyclables out you’re supposed to rinse them out come on just use your common sense
Always a simple and useful tip from you. You are a most beautiful person. All the tips you share are so helpful and you make it so doable for anyone. Thank goodness we have a person like you.
Glad you're back Leah, and looking better than ever. The manufacturers really should disclose that they have these things in the instructions. And they don't save water, because you spend more time in the shower trying to get clean.
Actually, statistics show that they do save water, which is why they are mandatory. Check state regulations.
Plumbers are not supposed to touch the water restrictions on any faucet. I won't risk my license over that
@@huddy7659 I know which of the people will be complaining the loudest when water shortages force restrictions and rationing. That time is coming soon.
A lot of us live in areas of the world with absolutely NO water shortages, ever, period. If some people choose to live in arid parts of the country, don’t make the rest of us be responsible for your choices. YOU can use all the water-saving devices you need. The rest of us say “no thanks.”
Love it - I'm on my own well and always thought there was something wrong with the pump in the well. Followed your instructions and now my problem seems solved. Thank you!
I did that on all my showers. Best thing I ever did! I know some people are into water conservation but I just HAVE to have a strong shower!!! lol. Great tip!
I didn't find that I conserved water when using a shower head with the flow restrictor because I stayed in the shower longer trying to get my hair and body rinsed.
@@cityofoaks I can totally relate and agree with you!!!
@@cityofoaks Same here! Mine doubled my shower time, so I lost time without saving much water. I was covered in soap suds, waiting for the water to rinse me fully.
EXCELLENT must-do shower improvement. Delta heads are a total pain though because the stamped-in restrictor spins in the head and does not come out easily, this is where I will use a 1/2" drill bit and be very carful not to let the bit go inside the head. Leah you're my favorite!
California dropped the rate to 2 GPM for shower heads, and manufacturers nationwide have followed suit so they don't get fined if one of their products gets offered in the state. So this is great advice for everyone else!
Makes sense
I'm in California in the Central Valley and we dropped the rate to 1.8 gallons!!! Can you believe it?
You need to rinse off and some you the water in pain management...if your water is restricted, you often just end up spending twice as much time under the water rinsing off.
I just replaced my sink spigot on the other side of the country and it had a 1.3 gallon restrictor saying the blame went to California on the package.But I quickly learned that if you measure up the restrictor in H x W x D and thread pitch , they are all metric these days. that one can go to Amazon and buy one of the desired flow rate ,well worth the cost.
Flow restrictors have existed since the 80s. Fully remove it, and you’re using more than 5gpm easily. So, let’s assume you’re actually paying attention and really shower in half the time, but still enjoy your shower.
At 10 minutes unrestricted, you’re at a minimum of 50gallons down the drain.
Flow restricted to 2gpm, at 20 minutes you’ve used 40gallons. The longer you take to shower, the more that waste grows.
Do what you want, but be aware of your use. If only to save yourself some cash when your water bill comes.
Thanks Leah. This is timely for my interest. I'm also having excess lime issues that is restricting water flow. I usually soak the shower head in vinegar and the water flows better for a while. We have really hard water here.
Weird about Leah, not only "I can do this", but I can do this right now. I always watch, then jump up and grab the pliers or screw driver and get it done. Thanks Honey.
Great video, I just did this the other night, the new shower head said 40% more pressure 🤦🏼♂️, it was awful so I looked and removed a little o-ring that was blocking the holes and now the family says wow what a great shower head. Shower heads can be expensive $$$$ little items.
Leah ALWAYS has wonderful ideas and the best way to get it across to the viewers.
Hope you're doing well, Leah. Always good to see a new video from you.
Wow! This is great! Thanks Leah, I was about to buy another shower head. What happens in our area is that calcium and minerals accumulate in the flow restrictor and the shower becomes too weak in water flow leading to longer showers. Saved time and water today. Thank you.
I use showers to decompress. I want all the water pressure I can get. I'm on a well, I don't run out of water. Thank you!!
TribalLady 12 :- And you shower only in cold water...🤪
@@blueeyeswhitedragon9839 On demand hot water.
Haha I sub to Nancy/Hollis long time ago good choice! I like the idea of decompress never thought of it like that thanks!
I am so glad you made this video. I had no idea. I bought a new shower head and the flow was horrible. I was ready to go get a new one. I just removed mine. Thank you so much. 👍
I treat water usage in the same way I treat fuel consumption. It isn't how many miles you drive and the speed thats matters, so much as the time the engine is running. A quick shower with full pressure will use less water than a longer shower with less water that simply won't rinse well. I think the additional water consumption is minimal.
Nice video- you just earned a new subscriber!
Hi Leah! I'd like to advise your viewers (with your permission), that flow restrictors usually collect debris developing the pressure drop issues. They can be removed, cleaned and reinstalled especially if the user has an instant on water heater (those units are very keen on water flow for delivering the temperature you set them at). Thanks again and I LOVE YOUR MESSAGE OF YOU CAN DO IT!
A soothing voice with some good info. Great channel
This is worth every dollar I spent watching the video ⛈️
I have a manual flow valve for my shower and this just made it amazing. Thank you.
Oh my that's a tiny opening. I remember finding similar flow restrictors in hose fittings when I was cleaning cars. The difference was night and day. I'm glad I have an older shower head. Thanks Leah!
Low pressure leaves one's scalp dirty if you have much hair at all. Thank you. This is useful.
Hi Leah, ironically I will be reinserting one because my border likes 20 minute showers. Thanks for the tip.
Very good point chrissscottt!
Now the border will take 40 minute showers?
Put two in as a prank, with crazy glue.
Maybe you should try to hook your border up with a girlfriend. It might cut down his "shower-time" considerably! LOL!!!!
@@TheRealDadfad Only if she puts out, daddy-o.
This is BRILLIANT! Thank you so much for sharing! A great shower not only is a mood booster, but will also help keep us healthier!
I am removing all and I mean ALL of these flow regulators. I need some rainforest action in my life. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks so much ! The plumber told me I had low pressure bc my pex is a bit smaller than standard. He was going off about having to re pipe the whole place. That’s not what I had him over for but it came up in conversation. I come across your video randomly and sure enough this solves the whole problem. I’ll come check out what you have to say before I get any “expert” advice. I can’t recall the first video I saw of yours but I certainly used the information obtained from it and am now going down the “see Jane drill rabbit hole”. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge 🙏
I’ve been removing those stupid things since they started being used. I’ve had a flow restrictor that wouldn’t come out. I’ve actually had to drill a hole in one.
I have drilled a lot of shower heads as well. It's worth the time to do it. It's all fine and dandy to try and save water but if you have to spend 3 times as long to get rinsed in the shower you aren't saving anything 😉
I can’t get mine out. Maybe I’ll try my drill.
@@jafallica Careful! Some are booby trapped.
Best DIY, home improvement, tool using, helpful tip providing teacher I’ve literally ever seen. Thanks again!!!
Thanks for the tip! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve changed the shower head trying to find one that puts out more water!
Leah has such a nice, kind manner. She would be a good friend.
Since I live where there is a well, water conservation is crucial. I’d rather have a less than fire hose quality shower than the well run dry.
I just commented that I only turn the water on long enough to get wet, then I wash, then I turn the water back on to rinse. I'm on a well, too, but I was going to do this anyway since the water is only on for two brief periods. I live alone, though, so I'm the only one using the shower.
It's just an option
Doesn't this choice depend on your local water situation? We've got a good regulator before the water enters the house and we've also got a chlorine filter on the shower which restricts water flow. So there are other factors to consider.
Bravo, Leah! I'm a long-time DIY'er, grow up with a handyman dad, so I knew about these. But I haven't changed one out in a long while, so your video was a great reminder of what to do. One note: I just installed a newer Kohler (COSTCO) double-head, and the flow was awful. The restrictor is a little different. There's still the O-X plastic piece, but then there's a small rubber gasket underneath. The entire plastic is sealed in place and cannot be removed, but just taking out the plastic part with needle-nose pliers and then the gasket using a very pointy tweezer did the trick! Amazing water pressure now and the shower heads work like they are "supposed" to. You are a pleasure to watch, especially since I think we had the same kinds of influencers in our lives. :-)
I Appreciate your straight to the point videos. You could easy add in minutes of backstories and fluff, but u get straight to the point/hack/tip. Sometimes its nice not having to speed up or FF a video and ends up being something well known. Ha. I also like the different topics u come up with
I've been doing anything connected with home repair, Master Carpentry and commercial construction work for almost 35 years. It's been a passion and although I know most of what your show, there is absolutely no way I could ever explain, relay or advise anyone step by step as accurately and easy to understand as you do. I watch you simply because your that darn great. Amazing person and awesome skill set to show beginners as well as seasoned trades people. Keep it up. We so need people like you in this world. Good bless you !
Thank you for your generous words
That was a great video, I'm taking off the flow restriction part "TODAY!" Thanks Jane .
Leah is awesome. Imagine having someone like that as a mother or as a father. Just happy to share the depths of knowledge.
I stay in a hotel when I’m at work and I’ve noticed on some rooms someone has taken the flow restricters out and you can have a much quicker shower. I try to remember the room numbers and request them when I return. 😂
A lot of hotels have high flow rates that I've noticed. It prevents bad reviews on the internet. They just add the additional cost of the water onto your bill.
You radiate kindness, Leah. Have a great day.
Leah, your DIY tutorials are the BEST!!
I sure wish I knew this back when I had my old apartment. I dreaded the shower because it barely flowed enough to rinse my hair well and it would take forever. Don’t think it was conserving water by the amount of time it took to bath and get rinsed. Your way would definitely be faster and better. Anyway- thank you so much! It’s nice to learn something every time I watch.
See I'm all for conservation and water, but if you want a effective shower than remove those restrictors. Leah, I didn't inow this, but awesome video, very helpful and now I learned something new :) Hope you're enjoying Florida
I found you by accident on how to drill a brick wall and I can’t stop watching your other videos! I learn sooooo much!
Nice one Leah. You're looking hale and hearty, Good to see you.
Hale?
@@jafallica Means healthy, it's an old word.
Alan Hale, kinda.
Brilliant. Thank you. I enjoy your voice. Thank you thank you for not yelling or talking about other stuff and just keeping to topic.
Thank you thank you.
That's good to know. The video is a good one. Taking shorter showers with full water flow is a way to save water and reduce the stress of low water pressure showers 💕🌱
Yes, but then environmental do-gooders would be able to pat each other on the back about how they've helped "save the planet."
I’d be willing to bet that those who complain about low-flow have never timed their showers and done a water usage test before and after.
For someone who knows very little about how improvement, I found this extremely helpful and full of useful information.
Flow restrictors are the dumbest things ever created for conserving anything. If you have a flow restrictor you end up having to shower for longer, wasting just as much if not more water than if you didn't have the restrictor.
The only way your statement is true is if you are turning the water on and off during your shower while washing. If you get in, leave the water on until you’re completely done you will use quite a bit more water even with taking a slightly shorter shower. You will also use a lot more hot water. I have personally remove the restrictors and after a few months and running out of hot water more frequently I reinstalled them.
@@Whodey-hd2dd Of course I leave the water running. I have a life and need to get in and out as quickly as possible while still getting clean. I would turn the water on and off if their were a limited supply of water because of an emergency, but as I have a job and there's plenty of water, I run the water without turning it off. What I wouldn't do for any logical reason is use a restrictor. That nonsense has been debunked repeatedly.
@@dovan4092 exactly who has debunked it? I know I’ve used it both ways and watch my water usage go up and see that I run out of hot water quicker without a restrictor. I have also made plenty of service calls where the complaint is running out of hot water quicker. Do time tests with restrictors and without restrictors. From my first hand experience I have a hard time believe your “debunked” claim.
@@dovan4092 if you are happy with the pros and cons of removing the restrictors then awesome. But spreading false information like you will use the same amount of water is just wrong in my opinion.
@@Whodey-hd2dd You're the one who's either misinformed or lying. Either way you're wrong. In fact common sense should tell you're wrong.
ANOTHER great tip! I've watched a bunch of your videos lately and they've helped me a lot! This latest video showed me something I didn't know, and after looking at a shower head I've been disappointed with, sure enough, there was the little plastic restrictor... NOW I'm getting much improved pressure/flow--thank you!
Leah's on the most wanted list with the EPA!
😳😃
Probably on the wanted list for removing the mattress tag too.
🤜💥🤛 I've incorporated a 'flow restrictor' hand valve up there on the downpipe. I too have the type of shower / tub wall valve that doesn't restrict flow, only mixes hot/cold, so an actual valve is needed if you want to cut the flow volume when appropriate. That said, I've also removed any internal restrictors from the pipes and tubing as I also need 100% full blast flow occasionally.. works perfectly in all my showers. 🥂
I just did this modification for a friend of mine,,Verygood to kno
Leah, must say one of the one of the best videos ever. You nailed it. One for us little folks. Amazing how the enjoyment of a good shower can motivate you to achieve anything. You rock and God Bless. USMC/USAF Ret.
Very very informative. Such small "adjustments" for a home owner can make one feel better in the .bathroom, kitchen and bed room. Lets not forget the workshop too. Peace David. I/we await your new digs video and you setting up your workshop. DVD:)
I had seen this video a while back, and we just had to put in a new shower head that the water pressure was just awful. You never felt like you got all the soap off so I was staying in the shower far longer than usual trying to feel clean. All of a sudden, I remembered this video, and we immediately removed the flow restrictor. HALLELUJAH! I had the best shower I had in weeks!
I wished you would have showed the before and after water sprays so we could all see the difference it made.
Yeah, I know. I thought the whole vid was building up to the epic before/after. Bitterly disappointed. Why, why, why?
Although the difference is noticeable you would not have been able to tell on a video.
Get off the couch and follow the instructions you would see for your own eyes what this educator has given you.
Why? If Leah says it improves water flow, you don't need any further explanation or evidence.
It doesn’t really show it on video because it doesn’t increase the pressure. It will increase the flow but not really the pressure. This is why if your home has proper water pressure I never recommend removing them. If you aren’t happy with the pressure there are shower heads that will give better pressure. Removing restrictors will defiantly dump out more water. But you will 100% use more water in general as well as run out of hot water much quicker if you have a tank style water heater. Unless you turn the water on and off during your shower.
Great video, as a plumber I’m very impressed you used all the correct terminology. Your not just a pretty face...well done.
As a plumber, how many new shower heads have removable restrictors?
I'll try it. When I'm in the shower, I just turn the water on long enough to get wet, then wash from head to toe, then turn the water back on to rinse. I'm trying to conserve as it is, but this would be a nice improvement when the water is on, I must admit.
Two (possibly familiar) words for you. Navy. Shower.
@@robertbamford8266 Ha ha. You called it, but I wasn't in the Navy. I worked for the Navy and that's where I learned to take showers that way.
The Japanese do this I’m told...
Thank you, Leah. That is a Great Tip, I just removed my shower restriction and Holy Smoke. What a difference. Thanks again.
This is the first thing I do whenever I move to a new house. I'd wager that in the real world they don't actually save much water, as most people just end up needing to shower longer as a result of the decreased pressure.
Yes, like the newer "high-efficiency" toilets you have to flush two or three times to get the poop down!
Anyway corporations need to hold up their end of the deal and quit pinning it all on individual people's consumption. They pollute a ton of air, water, and soil to make all their crap that doesn't even last, purposely designed to break so you gotta keep buying. Including those shower heads made of that awful cracky plastic!!
When a water restricted was added to my shower I did start taking longer showers. I really should just take it out and have a decent satisfying shower instead of a long mediocre one.
@@TheRealDadfad Simply hold the toilet hand down longer. It will lift the flapper and empty the entire tank.
@@drasco61084 I agree with most of what you've said however the reason so much plumbing nowadays is made of cheap plastic is due to government mandates against using brass, which contains trace amounts of lead. (I'm a manufacturing engineer and a higher-up in one of the companies we deal with (Delta Faucet) told me that was their main reason to switch to so many plastic parts and so much of their plumbing parts are now made of plastic instead of brass. (Plastic extrusion with its high degree of defectivity and scapage during production gives little or no savings in production-costs when compared to brass.)
I successfully removed one of these restrictors from a shower head. But it didn't pop out as easily as you demonstrated. After digging and cutting at it, it finally came out. Maybe different makes and models are designed differently. Am glad I got it out though. I added a shut off attachment behind the shower head to stop the water flow while I soap up and switch the water back on to rinse. Seems a water restrictor still wastes water since it doesn't completely stop the flow of it. Love your videos. 👍
I could happily watch Leah 24/7 there’s some things I might need some I would probably never need and others that leave me saying to myself I wish I had knew this before! The best part without a doubt is hearing Leah say “ you can do this”👍
I learned a lot from this woman and I appreciate her channel over the years, but this might be the best hack I've seen on here and it helps everyone.
Californication did this. On my shower head, they put THREE small screens and removing them was heavenly. Thanks for posting.
We must maintain our image of the permanent fake drought! I hope you wear your mask when showering, Lou.
Thank you so much... I always had excellent water pressure. I purchased a new shower head with a hose.
Could not understand why the pressure decreased. Never would have known what the problem was. I came by your video by chance.
Good to know! I will be doing some surgery on my shower head!
Oh my! We moved into our home 2014 and I grit my teeth in frustration because of low pressure in shower. Now I know. Thank you!!
"Seinfeld" has an episode about flow-restricted shower heads. The guys had to go to the black market to find full-flow ones.
the Commando 450
They use it to wash circus elephants
King of the Hill had a show about low flush toliets. It was hilarious.
@@yellowdog762jb He should have just got a flapper with a float and turned his toilet into a de facto 2 volume toilet.
I love your videos and I really hope that there are young kids in your neighborhood that have learned so much from you that in return they bring your groceries into the house, mow your lawn and most importantly keep a safe eye on you and your house. God bless you.
I love that you have “EMBOLDEN” as part of your name.
Yes. Yea you do.
😊
Years ago I actually ADDED a flow restrictor to my showerhead. It was very different from the ones used by manufacturers. It was basically a concave washer; hardly had any effect on the water pressure. Just thought I would throw that in there...
Leah, glad you were able to make the time for a video. I look forward to them. I hope you and Zak are settling into your new surroundings. Best wishes.
We plumbers have a professional responsibility to conserve water, and some water heater manufacturers recommend leaving this fitting in place to maintain temperature control. Water flow restrictions can also act as a backflow device to prevent contamination of the mains water supplies. It is also the first time I have been disappointed in one of your videos...Also low pressure at the shower is not indicative of low pressure throughout the house... Some people will misunderstand the message. One more point is that once the shower manufacturers cotton onto the tampering of shower valves the manufacturers will simply fit the restrictions into the shower valves as they have in Europe. This stops diy tampering....
Would you have time to explain about the backflow and contamination? Thanks, if so!
@@regular-joe of course. It depends mainly as to how the shower is fitted,and applies more to those showers with flexible hoses, rather than fixed heads, and if the shower is mains fed. Clean mains water passes through the shower head, but once it has it can become contaminated from water in the bath or shower tray. Some bacteria can pass back along the stagnant water remaining in the shower hose into the fresh mains water supplies under certain conditions.
@@profpriv thanks! I'd absolutely never heard of that, much appreciated.
Thank you for taking the time to comment, it's aleays good to hear from brothers in the trades with a different position. Now in all fairness, a flow restrictor is not a backflow device.
@@seejanedrill thank you Jane.
With the water pressure so low now it was hard to control water temperature let alone rinse soap out of long hair. When I went to remove the restrictor the little cross part was metal and I had to cut it out. Now I can take a quick shower. Thanks for the great tip.
As always, you've made my day!