In the growing conversation about energy-saving tips, rarely does one answer the question of how to save energy with home improvements by suggesting plumbing changes.
While most people think of energy-saving appliances or insulation, few realize how much energy your home can save through the updating of a plumbing system. Find out why it is important and some simple changes you can make.
How Does Your Plumbing Affect Energy?
You may think that, because your water still runs when your power is out, your plumbing doesn’t have an effect on energy use. This isn’t true.
Energy is consumed simply getting water to your home, and it is also consumed at the water treatment plant to treat the water. Therefore, the less water you use, the less energy is consumed.
Older toilets use as much as three-and-a-half to seven gallons of water with each flush. Considering the average person flushes the toilet six times per day, that adds up quickly. Replacing your old toilet with a low-flush toilet means each flush will only use about 1.6 gallons of water.
Low-Pressure Faucets
Many are often surprised at the quality showers they receive after installing low-pressure faucets. A reduction in pressure means less water is being forced through. Although their showers use less water, most people still say they feel like their soap rinses clean just as well as it did with the regular pressure faucet.
Fixing Plumbing Problems
Running a faucet for five minutes uses the same amount of energy as letting a 60-watt light bulb burn for 14 hours. Leaky faucets or toilets which run constantly can use a significant amount of energy, so fixing them is worth the investment.
Get Pluming Help Through TalkLocal
To learn more about how to save energy with home improvements, it is best to consult a professional. TalkLocal can find a plumber in your area quickly and easily. Our service is absolutely free, and you’ll be speaking with a qualified plumber in minutes.
