Switching to efficient faucets and fixtures is a viable way to reduce water consumption. This plumbing upgrade is straightforward, and everyone in your home can do their part in conserving local water resources and contributing to a more sustainable future. Using less water can also result in a smaller water bill. However, there are several unexpected benefits of efficient plumbing that go beyond the prospect of household water usage.
While it is easy to agree that water-saving faucets are better for the environment, installing these fixtures can have a direct impact on one’s daily quality of life. A look at the hidden advantages of transitioning to water-saving plumbing can help you make an informed decision for yourself and your family.
What Are the Basics of Water-Saving Fixtures?
Water-saving fixtures reduce the volume of water needed to use household items like sinks, showerheads, and toilets. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) measures water reduction in liquid gallons. For example, traditional sink faucets consume 2.2 gallons per minute (GPM), while water-saving faucets lower the necessary rate to 1.5 GPM without sacrificing performance.
Similarly, conventional showerheads use 2.5 GPM. This means that a 15-minute shower could result in almost 40 gallons of water consumption. Fortunately, water-saving showerheads can reduce use to fewer than 1.5-2.0 GPM. Outdated toilets can use as many as 7.0 gallons per flush (GPF).
However, federal mandates under the Energy Policy Act established a current maximum of 1.6 GPF, and the most advanced water-saving toilets can operate using as little as 1.28 GPF. According to the EPA’s WaterSense Program, switching to water-efficient fixtures can save over 700 gallons per year, lowering annual water bills by 20% or more.
What Types of Technology Do Water-Saving Fixtures Use?
Efficient fixtures use three common types of water-saving technology: aerators, flow restrictors, and dual-flush technology. Aerators are innovative devices that mix air with water. The addition of air helps maintain the same powerful stream while reducing the amount of fluid needed to perform tasks. Flow restrictors limit the amount of water that flows through pipes and fixtures.
Structures that use this mechanism or technology are called low-flow faucets or low-flow fixtures. Dual-flush devices have two separate control settings for flushing. One setting is for liquid waste, and the other option handles solid waste. These options help ensure that you do not use more water than is necessary. In addition to the three main water-saving mechanisms, you can also install smart water monitors and acoustic sensors to detect leaks and track usage.
What Are the Hidden Benefits of Water-Saving Fixtures?
There are a range of benefits to water-saving faucets and fixtures. The top advantages include reduced energy waste, improved plumbing lifespan, increased property value, and enhanced plumbing performance.
Reduced Energy Expenses
While water-saving fixtures are renowned for reducing water usage, these devices also lower your home energy expenses. By reducing water output, these fixtures decrease the heating required to operate hot-water faucets. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, water heating accounts for around 18% of the average home’s energy usage and is typically the second-largest energy expense for a house.
By heating less water, you can eliminate waste and reduce annual energy costs. For additional savings, you can also consult your plumber about installing an ENERGY STAR-certified water heater to complement your updated faucets and fixtures. Your plumber can help you decide whether to install a standard storage tank water heater or choose a tankless device instead. In either case, ENERGY STAR-labeled appliances adhere to strict efficiency standards while minimizing water and energy consumption.
Improved Plumbing System Lifespan
By using less water, efficient fixtures alleviate excess strain on plumbing pipes, water heaters, sump pumps, and sewage systems. The reduction in wear and tear translates to fewer leaks, clogs, and other forms of damage that necessitate costly repairs. In this way, water-saving fixtures help prolong the lifespan of plumbing infrastructure.
Water Pressure Optimization
Contrary to popular belief, water-saving fixtures do not result in uncomfortably low water pressure. In fact, the design of the most efficient fixtures helps achieve optimal water pressure through the implementation of modern technology. For example, the application of air via aerators adds enough oxygen or bubbles to create a more forceful and controlled water flow. This consistent flow enables excellent water pressure perception and helps ensure optimal comfort levels for tasks like showering or bathing.
Enhanced Health and Hygiene
Water-efficient fixtures reduce the risk of excess moisture levels in your home. This can help lower the chances of mold growth and improve indoor air quality. In addition, efficient filters are often compatible with modern filtration systems and self-cleaning devices that lower the odds of contamination or bacterial buildup. Some water-saving faucets or dual-flush toilets have touchless features that can help combat the spread of germs.
Increased Home or Property Value
If you plan to sell your home someday, upgrading your faucets and fixtures well in advance of putting your house on the market just makes sense. Houses equipped with water-saving features are more appealing to eco-conscious buyers. This can act as a key selling point when advertising your home. Many buyers prioritize options that emphasize sustainability and long-term savings on utility bills, so improving your home with the latest technology can help set your property apart from the crowd.
Potential Tax Incentives or Rebates
Many localities offer incentives or rebates for switching to water-saving fixtures. Check with your current water authority to confirm the available programs that can offset the installation cost while improving your home’s conservation efforts. You can also use the federal WaterSense Rebate Finder or state and municipal programs to reap the financial rewards of saving water.
Reduced Ecological Footprint
Using less water also reduces the energy needed to transport and treat it before it reaches your sinks or faucets. This reduced energy consumption minimizes greenhouse gas emissions and helps promote a healthier planet. In addition, installing fixtures like dual-flush toilets lowers the volume of wastewater that enters sewer systems. It alleviates strain on treatment facilities and reduces the risk of overflow or pollution from sewage leaks.
Quieter Plumbing Operation
Traditional or outdated plumbing systems can produce excessive noise due to high water pressure and volume. Overusing water can also rattle plumbing valves, joints, and seals. In contrast, water-saving fixtures help regulate flow. This lowers the likelihood of loud pipes and helps you go throughout your day without disruption.
Decreased Demand on Municipal Infrastructure
Efficient water usage also puts less strain on the municipal or city water supply. This decreased demand reduces the risk of shortages during warmer weather or droughts. Upgraded fixtures put less pressure on local infrastructure while helping you comply with any rules or laws designed to mitigate water scarcity.
Beck Electric, Generators & Plumbing provides plumbing services to homes in Canton, OH, and surrounding areas. Our plumbers can install dual-flush toilets, low-flow faucets, and luxurious showerheads. We can also upgrade your sinks, sump pumps, or garbage disposals. Let us fix your traditional water heater or help you upgrade to a tankless model. We conduct drain cleaning, fix leaks, remove clogs, and install gas piping. Contact Beck Electric, Generators & Plumbing today for all your plumbing needs.
