Save Water and a Lot More This Spring
The environment needs homeowners’ help now more than ever. Sea levels are rising, and it seems like winter turns into summer almost immediately. Yet, homeowners can do their part to reduce their carbon footprint by conserving water.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average household spends $1,000 on water bills each year. Saving water and saving money go hand-in-hand. Here, readers can learn more.
Install Water-Saving Fixtures
Not every plumbing fixture in today’s market saves water. That’s why homeowners should look for items with the EnergyStar or WaterSense label when looking to get water-saving appliances. These products save water in compliance with the EPA’s standards. For instance, an Energy-Star faucet saves 20 percent more water than the average leading brand.
When looking to get an energy-efficient appliance, one should consider the following:
- Touchless kitchen faucets
- Low-flow toilets
- Tankless water heaters
- Low-flow showerheads
Each of these devices saves water without sacrificing efficiency. Furthermore, some are eligible for tax credits and rebates under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. This law allows low- and middle-income households to afford upgrades.
Get Energy-Saving Appliances
Aside from saving water, the following appliances also save energy:
- EnergyStar washing machines. EnergyStar reports that the average household will run 300 loads of laundry a year. Yet, EnergyStar washing machines use 20 percent less energy (and 30 percent less water) than other competing brands. This reduces how often homeowners run loads.
- Tankless water heaters. Otherwise known as “on-demand” water heaters, these appliances don’t rely on heating water in a storage tank. That means the appliance isn’t constantly consuming energy all day. They only turn on when someone turns on the hot water faucet.
- EnergyStar dishwashers. First, dishwashers save more energy and water than washing dishes by hand. Furthermore, to maximize homeowners’ savings, energy-efficient ones only cost about $35 a year to operate.
Homeowners could also benefit from greywater systems. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that these set-ups capture the heat from hot water as it goes down the drain, then uses that energy to heat the water again.
Modify the Plumbing System Itself!
A home’s plumbing system is more than what initially meets the eye––the washing machine and the dishwasher. It also comprises pipes hidden in the home’s walls. While pipes can last decades without wearing down, homeowners can make them more efficient. Some considerations include the following:
- Insulating pipes. This reduces heat transfer from hot water to the pipe’s metal. This means water can be hot for longer.
- Getting faucet aerators. Installing these devices reduces how much water travels through a faucet simultaneously. It also controls the stream.
- Altering a pipe’s diameter. A pipe’s diameter plays a huge role in how fast water flows through a pipe, along with its pressure.
Some piping materials are more energy-efficient than others. That’s why some plumbers prefer installing copper pipes. These items last a long time, and they retain water’s heat. Yet, others prefer PVC pipes, which have many uses.
About Captain Rooter Emergency Plumbers Chicago
Residents of the Windy City have trusted Captain Rooter Emergency Plumbers Chicago for more than 20 years. Since 1998, these professionals have built a reputation for offering comprehensive plumbing services to those in Cook County. One can call today for more information or to set up an appointment.
