How do you design and operate water-efficient plumbing fixtures and appliances in green buildings?

1 Choose low-flow fixtures

One of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce water use in green buildings is to choose low-flow fixtures for faucets, showers, toilets, and urinals. Low-flow fixtures are designed to deliver a sufficient amount of water for the intended function while using less water than conventional fixtures. For example, a low-flow faucet can use 0.5 gallons per minute (gpm) instead of 2.2 gpm, and a low-flow toilet can use 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf) instead of 3.5 gpf. Low-flow fixtures can save up to 60% of water use and reduce the energy and emissions associated with water heating and treatment.

2 Install aerators and flow restrictors

Another way to improve the water efficiency of plumbing fixtures is to install aerators and flow restrictors. Aerators are devices that mix air with water to create a softer and more uniform spray, while flow restrictors are devices that limit the amount of water that passes through a fixture. Both aerators and flow restrictors can reduce the water flow rate without compromising the performance or comfort of the fixture. For example, an aerator can reduce the water flow rate of a faucet from 2.2 gpm to 1.5 gpm, and a flow restrictor can reduce the water flow rate of a showerhead from 2.5 gpm to 1.75 gpm. Aerators and flow restrictors can save up to 30% of water use and lower the demand for water heating and pumping.

3 Select water-efficient appliances

Appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines, and ice makers can also consume a significant amount of water in green buildings, especially in residential and commercial settings. Therefore, it is important to select water-efficient appliances that use less water per cycle and have features that optimize the water use for different loads and settings. For example, a water-efficient dishwasher can use 3.5 gallons per cycle instead of 6 gallons, and a water-efficient washing machine can use 15 gallons per cycle instead of 40 gallons. Water-efficient appliances can save up to 50% of water use and reduce the energy and emissions related to water heating and disposal.

4 Implement smart controls and sensors

A smart way to enhance the water efficiency of plumbing fixtures and appliances is to implement smart controls and sensors that regulate the water flow and temperature according to the user's needs and preferences. Smart controls and sensors can include timers, thermostats, motion detectors, pressure sensors, and leak detectors that can automatically turn on and off the water, adjust the water temperature, detect and prevent water leaks, and alert the user of any issues or malfunctions. For example, a smart control can turn off the faucet after a preset time, a smart sensor can detect the presence of a user and activate the flush valve, and a smart leak detector can shut off the water supply in case of a pipe burst. Smart controls and sensors can save up to 20% of water use and avoid water waste and damage.

5 Practice water conservation behaviors

Finally, the most important factor in designing and operating water-efficient plumbing fixtures and appliances in green buildings is to practice water conservation behaviors that reduce the frequency and duration of water use. Water conservation behaviors can include turning off the faucet when not in use, taking shorter showers, using the dishwasher and washing machine only when full, checking for leaks and repairing them promptly, and reusing or recycling water whenever possible. Water conservation behaviors can save up to 10% of water use and foster a culture of environmental awareness and responsibility.