A new shower head co-developed by the CSIRO uses as little as 50 per cent of water compared to a normal shower head by using air to simulate the sensation of full pressure.

 

The CSIRO’s Dr Jie Wu, a fluids specialist, says the new Oxijet nozzle, develpped by New Zealand company Felton in collaboration with the CSIRO, feels exactly the same as a normal shower.

 

"Traditional flow restrictors reduce flow and pressure, whereas Oxijet uses the flow energy to draw air into the water stream, making the water droplets hollow," Dr Wu said.

 

"This expands the volume of the shower stream, meaning you can save the same amount of water, while still enjoying your shower."

 

"The concept of using an aerated showerhead to save water is not new, but the technology behind our device using an aerator insert allows the device to work with existing showers already installed. Our engineers worked with Dr Wu's team to turn the concept into an inexpensive, quality product," he said.

 

Oxijet can be fitted to most existing shower heads and is accredited by the Australian Watermark and Water Efficiency and Labelling Standards. It is now available for purchase in Australia.