Conserving water is an important step towards a more sustainable future. Luckily, there are many ways to be water-conscious within your own home. Upgrading your plumbing fixtures is a great place to start. Here are the top 5 plumbing upgrades you can make to maximize water efficiency:
1. Low-Flow Fixtures
This is a classic upgrade for a reason. Low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets can significantly reduce the amount of water you use without sacrificing performance. Look for fixtures labeled with EPA’s WaterSense certification to ensure they meet strict efficiency standards.
2. Water-Efficient Toilets
Toilets are often the biggest water guzzlers in a home. Upgrading to a high-efficiency toilet can save gallons of water per flush. They use innovative flushing mechanisms to achieve a powerful clean while using less water. One toilet in particular that is popular in homes today is the dual-flush toilet. These toilets offer two flush options, typically a full flush for solid waste and a partial flush for liquid waste. This allows you to use only the amount of water necessary for the task at hand.
3. Leak Detection Systems
Leaks can waste an incredible amount of water before you even notice them. Installing a leak detection system, however, can alert you to even small leaks, allowing you to fix them promptly and prevent wasted water. If a leak detection system isn’t something you want to look into at this time, then at the very least consider scheduling routine plumbing service. Having a professional come out every so often to look over all your fixtures and detect any leaks can save you a lot of money and water in the long run.
4. Instantaneous Hot Water Heater (Tankless Water Heater)
Traditional tank water heaters constantly heat a reservoir of water, typically ranging from 40 to 120 gallons, depending on the size and the needs of the household. This ensures hot water is always available, but it also means constantly using energy to maintain that temperature, even during times when you’re not using hot water. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, heat water only when you demand it. They use coils or heat exchangers to heat water rapidly as it flows through the unit. This can significantly reduce standby energy use and hot water waste.
5. Smart Irrigation System
For those with lawns and gardens, a smart irrigation system can be a game-changer. These systems use weather data and sensor readings to adjust watering schedules automatically. This ensures your plants get the water they need without wasting water on overwatering. Smart irrigation systems can also be controlled on-the-go through an app on your smartphone, allowing you to monitor water usage and make adjustments remotely, from wherever you are.
Contact Griffin Plumbing for All Your Water-Efficient Plumbing Upgrade Needs in Santa Maria, CA and the Surrounding Areas
Upgrading your plumbing fixtures with water-efficient models is a cost-effective and smart way to conserve water and save money on your water bill. Griffin Plumbing is the Santa Maria and Central Coast plumbing pros you can count on. So, don’t hesitate to contact us for any and all of your water-efficient plumbing upgrade needs!
