Green building refers to energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, sustainable materials, and insulated windows and walls. Today, green plumbing is also becoming popular because water consumption is a huge factor in any building’s environmental footprint (incidentally, drought-prone Australia has led the green plumbing movement).

‘Greening’ your plumbing will reduce your home energy costs. But apart from improving your utility bills, green plumbing also provides cleaner water and conserves valuable water resources. Most importantly, going green is about passing a better world to the next generations. It helps the environment by saving energy and water and using eco-friendly materials.

Here are some of the plumbing upgrades and fixes that property owners today must consider to attain a greener home. To make sure that these fixtures run efficiently, you must hire a licensed plumber install them.

1. Low-Flow Showerheads

Normal-flow showerheads make use of about six to seven gallons every minute, and the water comes out at 80 psi. If you want to use less water with normal showerheads, the stream is flat and insubstantial, which offers an unsatisfactory shower experience.

Low-flow showerheads will solve this problem by forcing the water towards a narrower opening. In turn, this will reduce the amount of water that will come out while maintaining the pressure at 80 psi for a strong stream.

There are two design types allowing you to get a reduced water flow without the need to sacrifice water pressure. The laminar design uses individual parallel water streams that will reduce the stream while showering. The other type is the aerator design, which pulls air via the air ducts.

2. Eco-Friendly Toilets

The conventional toilet makes use of about 13.25-18.93 litres (3.5 to 5 gallons) of water every time you flush. The older versions use about 26.5 litres (7 gallons) of water. Toilets made after 1992 uses 6 litres (1.6 gallons) of water per flush. Today, new designs with eco-friendly features are more in-demand. They only make use of 4.85 litres (1.28 gallons) per flush. So get a new toilet now to conserve more water.

3. Up-to-date Taps

Old taps use plenty of water and their inefficiency increases as they age. Most modern styles of taps have luxury features like longer tap heads, low-flow designs, portable extensions, and convenient handless water shut off for better functionality. Surely, you will be amazed at the different options available in the market today.

Adding an aerator to these taps can also save water and money. Aerators will increase water pressure by adding air to water flow whilst reducing the amount of water used.

4. Tankless Water Heaters

Although conventional water heaters have improved when it comes to energy efficiency, they still waste a significant amount of money. They let the water sit in the tank whilst continually heating it until the household is ready to use it. And when you are ready to use it, you have to wait for it to get hot. No wonder today’s tankless water heaters are popular.

Tankless water heaters will warm water on demand, which saves an incredible amount of energy while making sure that you don’t run out of hot water. This kind of water heater is an excellent water-saving option that is also worth evaluating.

5. Piping and Insulation

Most plumbing systems in homes aren’t insulated properly; this will cause heat loss, making your water heater work harder. Plumbing experts recommend insulating your pipes as soon as possible.

Older pipes with galvanized steel easily corrode, thus blocking the system. Grey or blue poly, on the other hand, are prone to leaks. As such, you must let the experts in plumbing services replace your old pipes today.

6. Modern Appliances

The most visible feature of a plumbing system would be the appliances. Updating your appliances to their eco-friendly versions will add significant value to your home. Most modern appliances require a smaller amount of water while providing superior functionality. Consider switching out the refrigerator, dishwasher, and washing machine for new models. This upfront investment will pay off well in the long run.

Do not wait for your plumbing fixtures to break down or malfunction before making an upgrade. You must start conserving water and saving money on water bills. If you don’t upgrade your plumbing system, you could literally be flushing your hard-earned money down the drain.

AUTHOR BIO

Based in South Melbourne, Blue Diamond Plumbing was founded in 1985, working on new homes, repairs and commercial contracts. Over time they have grown to become some of the best plumbers Melbourne has to offer. Since 2001 the company has specialised in Emergency Plumbing and Property Maintenance, Repairs and Renovations for homes and businesses in Melbourne and inner city suburbs. Owner Rod Diamond has over 30 years experience with emergency plumbing in Melbourne’s inner suburbs.