Plumbing fixtures and appliances in your home use various quantities of water. If you want to be more energy-efficient, then there are various options that can be used to obtain a greener home.
Installing energy-efficient plumbing fixtures is a straightforward yet impactful way for homeowners to reduce their environmental footprint while also saving on utility costs.
Despite widespread awareness of water overconsumption issues, many individuals are unaware of the tangible actions they can take to address this concern at a personal level.
The WaterSense program stands out as a practical solution, offering an array of benefits in a budget-friendly package.
What is the WaterSense Program?
The WaterSense program, initiated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is a groundbreaking strategy that identifies and labels products designed for higher efficiency in homes and gardens.
This program simplifies the process for consumers to choose products that conserve water and protect the environment, contributing to a sustainable lifestyle.
Updating Your Bathroom Fixtures
Bathroom and kitchen renovations can be manageable DIY projects for most homeowners, requiring minimal effort and labor costs. Such upgrades are particularly beneficial in urban areas, where water expenses can be a significant household concern.
Planning and Implementation
Successfully implementing the WaterSense program in your home requires thoughtful planning and foresight. Most WaterSense fixtures are designed for easy integration with existing plumbing systems, minimizing installation labor.
The process generally involves selecting the correctly sized fixture to connect with existing PVC or copper pipes. Ensuring proper sealing and checking for leaks after installation are crucial steps in this eco-friendly home transformation.
Keep reading for the 7 must-have energy efficient plumbing fixtures to contribute to a greener home.
1. Faucets
The faucets in the kitchen and bathroom of your home account for up to 15% or more of the total water use each year. This means that water is wasted when it is allowed to run down the drain while you wash your hands or brush your teeth in the morning.
One way to conserve water is to have all the faucets replaced with a WaterSense labeled sink faucet. A WaterSense faucet reduces the volume of water by up to 30 percent or more without any noticeable drop in water pressure.
The Importance of Effective Drain Management
Managing your home’s water use efficiently also involves ensuring your drains are free-flowing and unclogged. Clogged drains can lead to significant water wastage and potential damage.
Managing your home’s water use efficiently also involves ensuring your drains are free-flowing and unclogged. Clogged drains can lead to significant water wastage and potential damage. Knowing how to unclog a sink is essential for every homeowner.
One of the best tools to unclog a drain is a drain snake. This tool is highly effective at clearing blockages caused by hair, grease, and other debris, ensuring your plumbing system remains in optimal condition.
By keeping your drains clear, you not only save water but also prevent the need for harsh chemical drain cleaners, which can be harmful to the environment.
By incorporating these features and tools, you can significantly improve your home’s water efficiency and contribute to a greener planet.
2. Aerators
The reduction of water from a kitchen or bathroom faucet can be achieved by using faucet aerators that are designed to be energy-efficient.
Aerators allow the air and water from a faucet to mix. This result is a reduction in the amount of water without a decrease in water pressure.
Installing faucet aerators is the easiest way to use less water in a kitchen or bathroom. Typical aerators for kitchen faucets are rated for 2.2 gallons per minute. Aerators for bathroom faucets are rated up to 1 gallon per minute. These can be found at any home improvement store or plumbing supply store.
3. Toilets
The toilet found in all residential homes account of up to 30 percent of total water use each year. These fixtures also are the biggest source of wasted water in a home. Toilets that were made prior to 1992 are not designed to be water-efficient. They use between 3.5 and 5 gallons of water per flush. You are able to decrease water usage by replacing older toilets with a high-efficiency toilet or a dual-flush toilet.
4. Showerhead
For many Americans, daily showers are a non-negotiable routine. Switching to a low-flow showerhead is an excellent solution for families needing to manage their time and hot water usage efficiently.
Daily showers by homeowners account for up to 17% or their yearly water usage. You are able to lower the amount of water being used when showering by installing a low-flow showerhead.
If you use a low-flow showerhead, then a water savings of 25% to 60% can be achieved. These newer fixtures have a flow rate no more than 2.5 gallons per minute. Older showerheads can have a flow rate that is up to 5.5 gallons per minute.
5. Water Heater
Replacing a conventional water heater in your home with a tankless water heater can cut 30 percent off of your utility bill each month. This unit accounts for up to 25% a home’s energy usage.
Installing a new energy-efficient water heater will significantly lower the amount of energy and water being used. If you choose to install a tankless hot water heater, then extra water does not need to be stored and heated in a tank.
6. Washing Machine
A typical family will wash up to 300 loads of laundry per year. This is a lot of water when a home uses a regular washing machine. Switching to a high-efficiency washer will cut energy use by about 20% and use up to 35% less water.
7. Dishwasher
Newer energy-efficient dishwashers for the kitchen are more efficient that older models. A dishwasher that was installed prior to 1994 will use up to 10 gallons or more of water for each cycle. Models made today are designed to save you up to 1,300 gallons of water during the life of the appliance.
Conclusion: A Modern Home Improvement Initiative
Adopting energy-efficient plumbing practices is a wise choice for homeowners aiming to conserve water and showcase a modern, eco-conscious bathroom design.
The market offers a variety of beautifully crafted faucets and fixtures compatible with eco-friendly standards like aerators and dual flush toilets. Such fixtures not only conserve resources but also align with contemporary interior design trends, allowing homeowners to enjoy both aesthetic appeal and functional sustainability.
