How to Remove Flow Restrictor from Phylrich Handheld Shower Head

If you’re tired of low water pressure from your Phylrich handheld shower head, you might want to remove the flow restrictor. Flow restrictors are small devices installed in showerheads to reduce the amount of water that flows through them. They are intended to save water and reduce the water bill, but they also result in lower water pressure, which can be frustrating.

In this article, we will show you how to remove the flow restrictor from your Phylrich handheld showerhead to increase water pressure.

What is a Flow Restrictor and Why is it Installed?

A flow restrictor is a device installed in showerheads to reduce the amount of water that flows through them. It is a small plastic disk with several holes that slow down the water flow.

The purpose of flow restrictors is to conserve water and energy, which in turn reduces water and energy bills. Additionally, they help to protect the environment by reducing water consumption.

Tools You’ll Need

Before you start removing the flow restrictor, you need to make sure you have the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pliers
• Screwdriver
• Needle-nose pliers
• Teflon tape
• Rubber band

Steps to Remove the Flow Restrictor

Here are the steps to remove the flow restrictor from your Phylrich handheld shower head:

Step 1: Locate the Flow Restrictor

The flow restrictor is located behind the showerhead. You need to remove the showerhead from the shower arm to access the flow restrictor.

Step 2: Remove the Shower Head

Use pliers to grip the showerhead firmly and turn it counterclockwise to remove it from the shower arm. Be careful not to damage the shower arm or the threads on the showerhead.

Step 3: Remove the O-ring

Once you have removed the showerhead, you will see a rubber O-ring on the shower arm. Remove it and set it aside.

Step 4: Locate the Flow Restrictor

Behind the O-ring, you will see a small plastic disk with several holes. This is the flow restrictor.

Step 5: Remove the Flow Restrictor

Use a screwdriver or needle-nose pliers to carefully remove the flow restrictor from the showerhead. Be careful not to damage the threads on the showerhead.

Step 6: Reassemble the Shower Head

Once you have removed the flow restrictor, reassemble the showerhead. Place the rubber O-ring back onto the shower arm, and then screw the showerhead back onto the shower arm using pliers.

Step 7: Test the Water Pressure

Turn on the shower to test the water pressure. If you have successfully removed the flow restrictor, you should notice an increase in water pressure.

Precautions

• Make sure to turn off the water supply before removing the showerhead.
• Be careful not to damage the showerhead or the shower arm when removing the showerhead.
• Do not use excessive force when removing the flow restrictor to avoid damaging the showerhead.

Conclusion

Removing the flow restrictor from your Phylrich handheld showerhead is an easy task that can significantly increase water pressure. By following the steps above, you can easily remove the flow restrictor and enjoy a more satisfying shower experience.

FAQs

Is it legal to remove the flow restrictor from a showerhead?

Yes, it is legal to remove the flow restrictor from a showerhead in the US. However, it is illegal to remove it from faucets, as they are subject to federal regulations.

Removing the flow restrictor can damage the showerhead if you use excessive force or if you damage the threads on the showerhead. However, if you follow the steps carefully, you can remove the flow restrictor without damaging the showerhead.

How can I tell if my showerhead has a flow restrictor?

If your showerhead has low water pressure, it is likely that it has a flow restrictor. You can also check the manufacturer’s instructions or look for a small plastic disk with several holes behind the showerhead.

Can removing the flow restrictor save water?

Removing the flow restrictor can increase water pressure, which can result in higher water consumption. However, it can also make the shower more efficient and reduce the time spent in the shower, which can ultimately save water.

Will removing the flow restrictor void my warranty?

Removing the flow restrictor can void the warranty on your showerhead. Therefore, it is important to check the manufacturer’s instructions or contact customer support before removing the flow restrictor.