Based on a national study, the average shower uses approximately 17 gallons of water.
Showers represent a significant portion of household water consumption. In fact, they account for about 20 percent of the water used indoors and are typically ranked as the third-largest use of water in the average home.
Average Shower Water Usage
According to a national study conducted by the Water Research Foundation in 2016, the average shower utilizes roughly 17 gallons of water. This average is based on a typical shower duration of around eight minutes.
Understanding this average helps put your own water usage into perspective.
Key Figures from the Study
Here are the key findings regarding average shower water use:
- Average Water Used: Approximately 17 gallons
- Average Duration: Around eight minutes
- Source: 2016 national study by the Water Research Foundation
- Household Impact: Accounts for ~20% of indoor water use, typically third-largest use
This data provides a clear picture of the average impact a single shower has on a home's water consumption.
Factors Influencing Water Use
While the average is 17 gallons for an 8-minute shower, the actual amount of water used can vary greatly depending on several factors:
- Showerhead Flow Rate: Older, less efficient showerheads can use significantly more water per minute than newer, low-flow models.
- Shower Duration: A longer shower will naturally use more water, even with an efficient showerhead.
- Water Pressure: Higher water pressure can sometimes increase flow rate, although this is primarily determined by the showerhead.
By being mindful of shower duration and considering installing a water-efficient showerhead, you can significantly reduce the amount of water used per shower.
