The water saving advantages of updating toilets, aerators and shower heads
There are definitely certain advantages to saving water in present-day society, especially with the implementation of advanced home appliances that make our lives easier but consume more water at the same time. Consequently, water preservation has become an essential practice in all regions of the United States, even in areas where water supply seems inexhaustible.
Minimizing soil saturation and therefore its further pollution due to hidden leaks is the essential component of preserving water as well as the environment. It can also extend the lifespan of your septic system. On the other hand, excess amounts of water overloading public sewer systems would result in flowing of untreated sewage to lakes and rivers. If less water is flowing through these systems, the chances for pollution are limited.
In light of all that has been said, it is evident that saving water is important but how can we do that? There are some ways that will be helpful. If you haven’t upgraded your water flowing fixtures such as toilets, aerators and shower heads in years, it is time to think about updating them now. Along with advantages of water saving, you will enjoy the new appearance and feel of your entire home. So why not install a low-flow toilet in your bathroom that will increase its functionality and preserve water?
Low-Flow Toilets
A lot of average American homes were built a long time before low-flow toilets were introduced in 1994. An old regular toilet flushes approximately 3.5 gallons (13 liters) of water per one time. Updating the old toilet to a new low-flow counterpart can save up to 3 gallons (11 liters) per flush. Such a new standard model would use about 1.3 gallons per flush (5 liters). If you switch to a more efficient model, it will use even less water. The difference is noticeable.
Shower Heads and Faucet Aerators
Another thing to consider is replacing shower heads and adding aerators to your faucets, which is an easy and affordable way to lower water bills. According to the US Department of Energy water bills may be reduced by 25-60% for an investment of approximately $20.
Typical shower heads spray about 4 gallons (15 liters) of water a minute if run at full capacity and pressure. In comparison with the old shower heads, new ones use only 1.5 gallons (6 liters) of water per minute which is three times less. Upgraded shower heads use a tight mist-like spray and keep adequate water pressure at the same time. They can also be of multiple designs from hand held, ceiling (wall)-mounted, minimalist to single, double, “rose” and multifunction showerheads.
Standard kitchen and bathroom faucets use 4-7 gallons (15-26 liters) of water per minute. If you add an aerator to the bathroom faucet, you will save 1-1.5 gallons (about 5 liters) per minute, and in the kitchen about 2.5 gallons (10 liters) per minute. Adding low-flow aerators to faucets can save 1,100-1,500 gallons (4000 – 6000 liters) of water a month.
Updating your plumbing systems such as toilets, aerators and shower heads is the decision that every homeowner will need to make on his own. If you need help evaluating advantages and disadvantages of the upgrade, contact the plumbing experts at Downey Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning and we will gladly present you with options available.
