Trump signs order to restore high water pressure in showers

In the United States on April 9, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at lifting regulations that previously limited the water pressure of showerheads and other household appliances. This decision reinstates policies that had been in place during his first term, which were later reversed by former President Joe Biden. Trump's latest order directs the Department of Energy to no longer enforce the conservation standards established under the Obama administration. During a signing ceremony at the White House, Trump expressed his frustration with low water pressure, citing his need for a more effective shower that caters to his hair care routine. He stated that modern restrictions forced him to stand in the shower longer without receiving adequate water flow, leading him to believe that the earlier regulations were overly complicated and ineffective. His comments reflected a broader sentiment among some Americans who argue that excessive government regulation limits consumer choice and impedes everyday conveniences. This order not only applies to showerheads but also extends to appliances like dishwashers and washing machines, effectively allowing manufacturers to produce models that exceed the previous water efficiency standards. The pushback against such regulations is often framed by Republicans as a fight for consumer rights and preference over governmental control. On the other hand, environmental advocates argue that such rollbacks undermine efforts to conserve water and energy, which can contribute to higher utility bills and increased environmental impacts. The back-and-forth nature of these regulations traces back to the 1992 Energy Policy Act, which set the maximum limit for showerheads at 2.5 gallons per minute. The Obama administration attempted to clarify this definition for multi-nozzle showerheads, prompting the Trump administration to push back on those interpretations, allowing for higher water flow from individual fixtures. This recent order reopens debates around efficiency versus comfort in consumer products, illuminating the ongoing tension between regulatory measures aimed at conservation and the desires of consumers for more traditional products that offer stronger performance.