The concept of ‘going green’ is far from new. Green practices are those that reduce unnecessary use and byproducts of resources like water, electricity, or gas. Admittedly, green practices help the environment, but most people realize that they also help our wallets. Matt Mertz Plumbing in Pittsburgh PA may be the most effective place to start learning how to implement a green plumbing plan.
Many homeowners hesitate to look into the newer green plumbing technology assuming it will cost more than traditional. Fortunately, most product and construction standards are lining up to require more efficient installations. While water reducing appliances still cost a fraction more at the store, the savings in water, electric, and gas consumption quickly surpass any initial cost.
Waiting For Hot Water
The easiest tactic to reduce energy use is insulating pipes to keep heat in and cold out. The more tech-savvy choice, however, is to install a Faucet Activated Hot Water Circulation Pump. The largest source of wasted water in homes is the water that runs down the drain while the homeowner is waiting for heated water to travel from the water-heater to the faucet. A Faucet Activated Hot Water Circulation Pump is easy to install without requiring a complete system overhaul and will provide heated water instantly along with notable savings on the utility bills.
Waste Not
With a few more tweaks to existing hardware in the home, water waste will decrease even more. Flow reducers are available for homeowners to attach to existing faucets to reduce flow by nearly 40%. Homeowners can go further and replace existing shower heads and faucets with low-flow versions to reduce water usage by 50%. Homeowners can replace gallon guzzling toilets with low-flush versions which can save up to five times the amount of water that gets flushed away. Replacing the clothes washer and dishwasher with energy efficient upgrades will compound water and energy savings even more.
Whole House Filtration
Another plumbing product that significantly benefits a homeowner is a whole house water filtration system. Water filtration systems pump cleaner water into all appliances reducing build-up and extending their life. Filtration systems also provide quality drinking and cooking water to protect the whole family from unseen chemicals and microorganisms.
The professionals at Matt Mertz Plumbing are available to help you implement a green plumbing plan to save money and the environment.