What Is Green Plumbing?

A plumbing system is essential to modern-day living, allowing us to access clean water and indulge in proper waste disposal.

However, your existing plumbing system may need to be more environmentally friendly, leading to water waste, energy consumption, and pollution. So, if you are willing to consume water sustainably and create a positive impact for future generations, you’re at the right place!

This informative read will explore the most effective ways to go green with your plumbing. But before that, let’s get back to basics.

What Is Green Plumbing?

Green plumbing or ecological plumbing refers to the set of practices and technologies to reduce the environmental impact of plumbing systems in buildings. These practices include reducing water consumption, using sustainable materials, and preventing leaks.

Some standard green plumbing techniques include installing low-flow showerheads, toilets, water storage tanks, etc., employing rainwater harvesting systems, using energy-saving water heaters, and opting for recycled pipes and fixtures. As such, green plumbing not only helps conserve natural resources and lead a more environmentally friendly life but also helps save money on water and electricity bills.

Green Plumbing Techniques You Should Invest In

1. Low-Flow Showerheads

Low-flow showerheads are highly effective in decreasing the amount of water used during a shower. They help restrict water flow while maintaining or even enhancing the shower experience. Switching to low-flow showerheads conserves water and reduces one’s carbon footprint.

Different low-flow showerhead designs incorporate various methods to enhance the showering experience. Some use traditional techniques like water flow restrictions, while others employ specialised techniques. Examples of the latter include laminar flow showers, aerated low-flow showers, low-flow showers with pause mode, and power massage showers.

Feel free to consult a green plumber from WP Plumbing to determine the best option!

2. Low-Flow Toilets

When we flush the toilet, we waste a significant amount of valuable tap water. Now that people have realised the importance of protecting and conserving our water sources, low-flow toilets have become all the rage.

Low-flow toilets use only half the amount of water used by traditional toilets. With all that water saved, you can save money on utility bills while promoting a greener lifestyle.

In addition, by switching to a low-flow toilet, you may be eligible for energy-efficient rebates from the government.

Since Australia follows the Water Efficiency Labelling Standards (WELS) scheme, it is essential to note the energy efficiency rating when purchasing plumbing fixtures. We suggest opting for at least a 3-star rated product. Also, inquire about the various rebate options to maximise your cost savings.

3. Tankless Water Heaters

Also known as instantaneous or demand-type water heaters, these units are highly efficient in reducing water and energy consumption. Unlike conventional water heaters that store water in a tank, tankless water heaters only heat water when someone turns on the hot water tap.

So, a tankless water heater provides hot water almost instantly, and there is no need to wait for the water to warm up. Depending on the household’s water consumption, a tankless water heater can reduce water and energy usage by 24-34%.

Tankless water heaters are convenient as they supply hot water constantly without causing water and energy waste. They also have a longer lifespan, lasting up to 20 years or more, compared to conventional water heaters, lasting 10 to 15 years.

4. Solar Hot Water Systems

The Australia Institute Climate of the Nation Report 2019 reveals that a significant percentage of young Australians are worried about climate change, including 83% of 18-34 year-olds. They are also more concerned about climate change leading to more droughts and flooding. As such, we can collectively reduce our carbon footprint by switching to solar energy.

Doing so can significantly reduce carbon emissions and help lead a more sustainable lifestyle. Solar hot water uses the sun’s energy to heat the water, which can be stored for later use. The water in the solar collectors is heated by the sun, causing it to rise and flow through an insulated pipe into a storage tank.

By using solar hot water, homeowners can enjoy hot water for their daily activities, such as showering and washing, while reducing their carbon footprint. Switching to solar hot water systems from gas or electric water heaters can save more than 50% of energy.

5. Greywater Systems

Greywater is wastewater from sinks, showers, and washing machines that can be used for non-potable purposes like flushing toilets, watering plants and washing clothes. A greywater system can significantly reduce water usage and the amount of wastewater that goes into sewage systems. This further decreases the load on water treatment facilities.

Greywater systems can be simple or complex, depending on the type of system installed. Simple systems include a collection tank and a gravity-fed distribution system, while more complex systems include pumps and filtration systems.

Other Ways To Reduce Your Environmental Impact

• Rainwater Harvesting: Collect rainwater in a rain barrel or cistern and use the water to wash cars, water plants, etc.

• Fix Leaks Promptly: Fix visibly leaking faucets, toilets, and pipes immediately and check for hidden leaks (for instance, behind walls).

• Use Sustainable Materials: When renovating or installing new plumbing fixtures, opt for recycled plastic or bamboo to reduce the environmental impact of plumbing.

Practising Green Plumbing

Two critical conservation factors in a green plumbing system are energy and water. Several progressive solutions are being developed to reduce the energy needed to store, use, and distribute water usage.

Contact WP Plumbing today to reap the benefits of cost-efficient and energy-saving plumbing solutions. Our experienced plumbers will offer the best green plumbing products and services at the most affordable rates. From fixing water-saving taps in your bathroom to installing a rainwater tank on your roof, we will help you do your bit for the environment!