Walking in my home last evening, I was greeted with the usual excitement of children running around, the dog barking and my wife sharing the latest item in the home that needs my attention. The kitchen faucet decided it was time to throw an aerator, spraying water on any unsuspecting user. So, another trip to the hardware store for another “green” repair.
The best part about water conservation measures is the advances we have seen in the technology. In decades past, low-flow was synonymous with painful spray, poor water pressure, or additional flushes of the toilet. Today’s fixtures bare no resemblance to their predecessors. In fact, when placed side-by-side, a 2.2 gpm vs. a 1.5 gpm faucet only appears different when trying to fill the sink. A dual flush toilet outperforms most standard 1.6 gpf toilets. An Energy Star Rated dishwasher is typically a standard feature.
Water usage through these small measures will be reduced by at least 30% and as much as 50% without inconveniencing customers. Even better, the cost for all these improvements on a typical 3 bathroom home is less than $100. Payback on that investment for your consumer begins in the 3rd or 4th month of occupancy. And for those interested, retro-fitting your home, like I have done, runs about the same cost with a quick payback and great results.
Related Stories
Custom Builder
3 Questions Answered About Reliable Energy in Home Construction
Energy expert Bryan Cordill makes a case for why and how propane is an answer to growing concerns about reliability and resilience in home construction
Business
PERC Highlights Sustainability and Efficiency at IBS with 'Clean Build Conversations'
Hear from industry standouts Matt Blashaw and Anthony Carrino at this hour-long Show Village event
Construction
How to Air Seal the Garage
A poorly sealed wall or ceiling between the garage and the main house can let harmful fumes into the living space
New Home
Hosting Multiple Generations for Generations to Come
Despite juggling numerous program and site considerations, architect Joel Wenzel designed a long-lasting, multi-generational retreat that nestles seamlessly into its bucolic surroundings
Custom Builder
How the Zero Energy Ready Home Update Emphasizes Resilience and Decarbonization
ZERH Version 2, released in December of 2022, will boost the efficiency and performance of single-family homes, preparing them for the increasingly oppressive weather
Business
The Fundamental Integration of Sustainability and Architecture
California architect Ryan McDaniel provides real-world insights and examples into how he approaches sustainability for his projects.
Codes & Standards
An Introduction to the Zero Energy Ready Home Program
Late in 2022, the U.S. Department of Energy's Zero Energy Ready Home program announced the rollout of ZERH Single Family Version 2
Construction
Guest Column: Residential Construction Trends to Follow in 2023
PERC shares homeowner trends to keep on your radar in the New Year.
Business
Stretching the Budget to Meet the Massachusetts Stretch Code
We take a look at Massachusetts' Stretch Code and how it's affecting design and construction on The House That Blues Built
Green & Sustainable
Sustainability Pioneers: 5 Brands to Watch
These leading manufacturers are committed to creating a more sustainable future for the building industry. Here are the steps they're taking to accomplish that