Self-cleaning shower heads often employ a simple mechanical method to prevent mineral buildup in their spray holes.
How the Anti-Clogging Mechanism Works
Based on certain designs, the core principle of some self-cleaning shower heads involves a mechanism that activates when water pressure drops. This is specifically designed to combat common issues like limescale accumulation which can clog the spray nozzles.
Here's a breakdown of how one type of anti-clogging technology functions:
- Problem: Over time, minerals (like calcium and magnesium found in hard water) build up around and inside the small spray holes, leading to clogs and uneven water flow.
- Solution: This type of self-cleaning shower head incorporates a flexible membrane within its design.
- Activation: Once the water stops flowing, the pressure change causes this membrane to react.
- Cleaning Action: The membrane is connected to or integrates tiny plastic needles. As the membrane adjusts when the water turns off, it pushes these tiny plastic needles into the shower spray holes.
- Result: This action effectively helps clean and stop them getting clogged up with limescale, physically dislodging or preventing the initial formation of mineral deposits within the nozzles.
This simple yet effective physical method ensures that the spray holes are cleared each time the shower is used and turned off, maintaining consistent performance and extending the life of the shower head.
