Skip to main content

Low-Flow Fixtures

Low-flow fixtures are designed to reduce water consumption in residential and commercial settings, significantly lowering water bills and greenhouse gas emissions associated with water heating and treatment.

Low-Flow Fixtures

Save water with low-flow fixtures (Firewood for Life)

Company Iconjob openings

View open jobs in this Solution​

Example Companies​

  • Kohler - Produces a range of water-efficient fixtures for residential and commercial use.
  • Moen - Offers innovative low-flow faucets and showerheads.
  • Delta Faucet - Develops water-saving technologies for faucets and showerheads.
  • TOTO - Specializes in high-efficiency toilets and faucets.
  • Niagara Conservation - Provides ultra-high-efficiency toilets and showerheads.

Overview​

Hot water is responsible for a quarter of residential energy use worldwide. More efficient fixtures and appliances can reduce home water use, thereby reducing emissions.

Learn More

Progress Made​

Significant advancements have been made in developing low-flow fixtures:

  1. Low-Flow Showerheads, Toilets, and Faucets: These fixtures can reduce water use by up to 50%, leading to lower water bills and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
  2. Technological Innovations: Improved aerators, pressure-compensating valves, and flow regulators enhance water efficiency without compromising performance.

Key organizations driving progress include:

  • Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
  • WaterSense Program
  • Alliance for Water Efficiency

Solutions by Sector​

Residential​

  • Low-Flow Showerheads: Reduce water use while maintaining pressure.
  • High-Efficiency Toilets: Use less water per flush compared to standard toilets.
  • Water-Saving Faucets: Incorporate aerators to reduce flow without sacrificing performance.

Case Studies:

  1. Kohler's WaterSense Certified Products: Range of low-flow fixtures for homes (Kohler).
  2. Moen's Eco-Performance Showerheads: Designed to save water without compromising shower experience (Moen).
  3. Delta Faucet's H2Okinetic Technology: Provides the feeling of more water while using less (Delta Faucet).

Commercial​

  • Low-Flow Urinals: Use significantly less water per flush.
  • Touchless Faucets: Reduce water waste in public restrooms.
  • Water-Efficient Shower Systems: Designed for gyms, hotels, and other commercial facilities.

Case Studies:

  1. TOTO's High-Efficiency Toilets: Installed in commercial buildings to reduce water use (TOTO).
  2. Sloan Valve Company's Water-Efficient Fixtures: Provides a range of low-flow options for commercial restrooms (Sloan).
  3. Niagara Conservation's Ultra-High-Efficiency Products: Used in various commercial applications to save water (Niagara Conservation).

Industrial​

  • Process Water Efficiency: Implementing low-flow fixtures in industrial processes to reduce water consumption.
  • Cooling Towers: Using water-efficient technologies to minimize water use in cooling systems.
  • Irrigation Systems: Employing low-flow technology in industrial landscaping and agriculture.

Case Studies:

  1. GE's Water-Efficient Technologies: Applied in industrial settings to reduce water use (GE Water & Process Technologies).
  2. Xylem's Smart Water Solutions: Provides water-efficient technologies for industrial applications (Xylem).
  3. Hunter Industries' Low-Flow Irrigation: Used in industrial landscaping to conserve water (Hunter Industries).

Lessons Learned​

  1. Water Savings: Significant water savings can incentivize adoption by lowering water bills and reducing emissions.
  2. Design and Installation: Proper design and installation are crucial for optimal performance.
  3. Public Awareness: Educating consumers on the benefits of low-flow fixtures is essential for widespread adoption.
  4. Economic Viability: Financial incentives such as rebates and tax breaks can encourage adoption.

Challenges Ahead​

  1. Market Inefficiencies: Overcoming inefficiencies in the market to achieve optimal water savings.
  2. Awareness Gap: Raising public awareness about the ecological and climate benefits of low-flow fixtures.
  3. Incentives: Establishing financial motivations, like tax breaks or rebates, for individuals and businesses to adopt low-flow fixtures.

Leading organizations at the forefront of this cause include:

  • WaterSense (EPA)
  • Alliance for Water Efficiency
  • International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO)

Best Path Forward​

  1. Increasing Awareness: Educational campaigns showcasing water and cost savings.
  2. Providing Incentives: Offering financial benefits like tax breaks or rebates.
  3. Enhancing Availability: Collaborating with manufacturers to boost production or accessibility through retailers and stores.
  4. Policy Support: Implementing regulations that mandate the use of low-flow fixtures in new buildings and renovations.

Image credit: Firewood for Life

Last updated on