8 Energy Efficient Plumbing Fixtures

Plumbing Solutions by MillTown Plumbing

There are several benefits of having an energy-efficient home; not just for the environment and your health and safety, but for your wallet as well. When it comes to energy-efficient fixtures, most people don’t think about their plumbing. However, old and outdated plumbing fixtures not only waste water and energy, but they can also end up costing you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars over time.

The Pains of a Low-Efficiency Plumbing System

The challenges of a low-efficiency plumbing system can be numerous. While they may seem minor individually, together they can create a significant headache for homeowners.

Higher utility bills, a larger carbon footprint, and health and safety risks are some of the main issues linked to low-efficient plumbing systems. Older appliances like dishwashers and washing machines are not only less efficient but also made with outdated technology that can jeopardize your family’s health.

Older toilets use much more water than newer models for the same job, which wastes water and can increase your water bill by hundreds of dollars over the toilet’s lifetime. Similarly, new showerheads provide more pressure than older models while using much less water.

Eight Energy-Efficient Plumbing Features to Save You Money and Reduce Your Carbon Footprint:

• Fix and Upgrade Leaky Pipes and Fixtures: A leaky faucet can waste up to 20 gallons of water a day, leading to thousands of gallons and potentially hundreds of dollars wasted annually. Additionally, leaky pipes and faucets can be a breeding ground for mold spores, posing serious health risks. Untreated leaky fixtures can cause water damage that may cost tens of thousands of dollars to repair.
• Low-Flow Showerheads: Low-flow showerheads have significantly improved since their introduction decades ago. Thanks to advancements in technology, they now offer more pressure with less water. Older showerheads used 5 to 8 gallons of water per minute (GPM), whereas current standards are 2.5 GPM, with low-flow showerheads using as little as 2 GPM.
• Insulate Pipes: Heat can be lost while hot water travels through plumbing fixtures. Insulating pipes reduces this heat loss, allowing you to lower your water heater temperature to 120 degrees or lower. While paying someone to insulate your home’s pipes may not always be cost-effective, it’s a great option during new construction or major remodels.
• Low-Flow Faucets: Replacing existing faucets with low-flow faucets can conserve water without sacrificing water pressure. These new fixtures can reduce water usage from 2.5 GPM to 1.5 GPM, saving up to 13,000 gallons of water annually for a typical household, which translates to substantial savings. Some kitchen faucets also offer built-in filtered water features, helping you cut down on bottled water consumption.
• High-Efficiency Toilets (HET): Over 40% of U.S. households use older toilets that consume 3.5 or more gallons per flush. Newer models use as little as 1 gallon per flush and often offer dual flushing capabilities, making them one of the most energy-efficient options. Look for the Environmental Protection Agency’s “WaterSense” label, indicating the toilet has been tested for maximum flushing power and water efficiency.
• Tankless Water Heaters: Also known as on-demand water heaters, these units heat water only when needed. Although they may be expensive upfront, their energy-saving capabilities make them worthwhile. Traditional water heaters keep 40 to 50 gallons of water hot at all times, which is incredibly wasteful and inefficient.
• Update Washer and Dryer: Older washing machines feature top-loading designs where water fills up from the bottom. Newer front-loading machines use up to 50% less water. Modern dryers have more efficient heating units that dry clothes faster, saving energy. Additionally, washing only full loads of laundry can result in significant savings.
• Regular Maintenance: Proper maintenance of your plumbing fixtures is crucial if you’re concerned about wasting money or energy. Regular check-ups and maintenance can help detect small problems before they become major issues, potentially saving you money in the long run.

Looking to Upgrade? Call MillTown Plumbing

MillTown Plumbing is a family-owned and operated business established in 1979. Ever since our founding, we have been committed to serving the people of Northeastern Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire. Our licensed and bonded plumbers offer honest answers to all your plumbing questions and provide cost-effective, lasting solutions to keep your home healthy and safe. This commitment to your satisfaction has guided us for over 35 years, making us the trusted choice for quality plumbing repairs in Northeastern Mass and Southern NH.