Low-Flow Plumbing Fixtures Save Water and Energy: Learn How

Saving water and energy is a smart and responsible move for your finances and the environment. Low-flow plumbing fixtures provide an effective solution to reduce water consumption without sacrificing performance. Discover the perks of low-flow fixtures, how they differ from older models and useful suggestions to conserve even more water in your day-to-day life.

How Much Water Do Low-Flow Fixtures Save?

These more efficient plumbing fixtures initially gained widespread traction around the 1990s. The movement was largely driven by increased awareness of water conservation concerns and our environmental impact. The Energy Policy Act of 1992 set maximum flow rates for faucets, showerheads and toilets across the United States, promoting the widespread adoption of low-flow fixtures. This initial legislation paved the way for more efficient fixture designs designed for reducing water consumption while preserving performance.

Consider how much water low-flow fixtures save compared to their older counterparts:

• Faucets: Older faucets flow at about 2.2 gallons per minute (gpm), whereas low-flow faucets cut this down to 1.5 gpm or less without compromising water pressure.
• Showerheads: The old standard for showerheads was 2.5 gpm. Low-flow showerheads lower water consumption to 2.0 gpm or lower.
• Toilets: Old toilets can use as many as 7 gallons per flush (gpf). In contrast, the current federal standard maximum is 1.6 gpf, with a number of dual-flush models with averages as low as 1.28 gpf.

The Technology of Low-Flow Plumbing Fixtures

Low-flow fixtures use several ways to retain performance while using less water. Here’s how they do it:

• Aerators: Lots of low-flow faucets and showerheads feature aerators, mixing air with water to retain pressure while still reducing the volume of water required.

• Flow restrictors: Faucets with these devices control the amount of water that flows through the fixture without a significant drop in pressure.

• Dual-flush technology: Many low-flow toilets feature two flush options—one for liquid waste using less water, and one that’s larger for solid waste. This optimizes water use based on need.

Key Benefits of Eco-Friendly Plumbing Fixtures

Switching to low-flow faucets, showerheads and toilets can benefit you in a number of ways:

1. Reduced water waste: The EPA’s Water Sense program has estimated that you can save 700 gallons of water per year by replacing the traditional faucets in your home with new, low-flow designs.
2. Smaller water bills: Low-flow fixtures help decrease your monthly utility bills by using less water. As a matter of fact, a WaterSense-labeled showerhead can save 4 gallons of water each time you shower, which adds up over time.
3. Lower water heating costs: Using less water to shower, cook and clean results in you using less hot water, which further increases your savings by lowering hot water costs.
4. A longer plumbing system life span: Decreased water flow also reduces wear and tear on your plumbing system, potentially extending its life and lowering the need for repairs.

Suggestions to Save Even More Water

While these water-saving fixtures are highly effective on their own, you can do more to conserve water every time you use the plumbing. Here are a handful of of the most common:

• Take quicker showers: Even with low-flow showerheads, you can still waste water if you take too long. Cutting your shower time by a minute or two preserves water and reduces energy use.
• Turn off the water when you brush your teeth: Only leave the tap on if you’re actively using it. As soon as you leave the bathroom or spend the time to actually brush your teeth, shut off the faucet so you don’t waste water.
• Use dual-flush toilets efficiently: The dual-flush capability only benefits you if everyone at home understands how to use it it. Stick to the half-flush button for liquid waste and only press the full flush for solid waste. Certain handle-flush toilets now have dual-flush designs. A quick flush uses less water, while pressing and holding the handle releases the standard amount of water to clear solid waste more thoroughly.
• Don’t flush trash: Toilets are only designed to process toilet paper and human waste. Flushing anything else needlessly wastes water and raises the risk of a clog forming. Do your water bills a favor by only disposing of facial tissues, paper towels, cotton balls and similar products in the trash.
• Fix leaks as soon as you can: Even low-flow fixtures can leak, wasting water and reducing efficiency. Make an effort to regularly check for leaks and repair any you find to sustain your water conservation efforts.

Request a Free Quote for Low-Flow Plumbing Installation Today

Ready to lower your water usage and increase savings? Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is here to help! We install efficient low-flow faucets, showerheads and toilets to support water and energy conservation. With our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can trust us to deliver the quality products and services you deserve. When you’re ready to upgrade your plumbing fixtures or want more water conservation tips, please contact us today.