Going green in the bathroom doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style or luxury. With so many sleek and elegant water-efficient fixtures on the market today, you can give your bathroom an eco-friendly makeover with products that are as beautiful as they are planet-friendly. Here are some tips for adding green glamour to your bathroom.
Low-Flow Toilets
One of the biggest water wasters in any home is an outdated toilet. Replacing an old 5-7 gallon per flush toilet with a new low-flow model can reduce water usage by up to 60%. Many of today’s low-flow toilets flush at 1.28 gallons or less yet offer the same flushing power as their water-hogging counterparts. Brands like Toto and Kohler offer high-efficiency toilets in stylish elongated, skirted, and one-piece designs. Opt for a two-piece model with a concealed trapway for easier cleaning.
Water-Efficient Faucets
Faucets account for about 15-18% of indoor household water usage. Swapping out old faucets for new water-efficient models can cut water use without detracting from the style of your space. Look for faucets with a flow rate of 1.5 gallons per minute (gpm) or less. Brands like Moen, Delta, and Kohler offer high-arching, swan-neck, or geometric faucets with low-flow aerators. Hands-free faucets are also an eco-friendly option.
Low-Flow Showerheads
Taking a relaxing shower is one of life’s simple pleasures. With a water-efficient showerhead, you can still enjoy a satisfying shower while cutting your water usage in half. EPA WaterSense-certified showerheads use no more than 2.0 gpm while providing equal water coverage and warmth as less efficient models. Opt for a rainfall-style showerhead for spa-like luxury.
Dual Flush Toilets
Get the best of both worlds in water conservation with a dual flush toilet. These allow you to choose between a full-flush (1.6 gpf) and a partial flush (0.8-1.1 gpf) depending on your needs. Dual flush toilets reduce water usage by 25-60%. Many models like Toto Drake II feature sleek, skirted trapways and high-gloss finishes for a modern look.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters only heat water on demand rather than maintaining a full tank at temperature 24/7. This cuts energy usage by up to 34%. Tankless models provide endless hot water for your bathroom and home. Choose a whole-house model or a point-of-use unit near sinks or showers. High-end brands like Takagi and Rheem offer sleek, compact designs.
Water-Saving Shower Controls
Cut your shower water usage with specialized shower controls. Thermostatic valves allow you to preset a maximum temperature. Rain sensors turn off the shower when you’re not actively rinsing. Timers help limit shower length. Look for an all-in-one system like Moen’s Eco-Performance shower that combines multiple water-saving technologies.
High-Efficiency Toilets (HETs)
For the ultimate in water conservation, upgrade to a high-efficiency toilet. HETs use a powerful flush system to clear waste using just 1.28 gpf or less. Models like Toto Ultramax II combine water savings with a sleek one-piece design. Many meet EPA WaterSense criteria and are eligible for rebates.
Recycled Glass Vessel Sinks
Make a green design statement with a eye-catching vessel sink made of recycled glass. Vessel sinks sit atop the vanity, displaying their color and shape. Companies like Fireclay and Vigo offer deep, iridescent glass bowls in organic shapes and vivid colors. Pair with a metal faucet for contrast.
Water-Saving Smart Showers
The latest innovation in eco-friendly showers is device-connected smart showers. These track your usage, suggest ways to cut water and energy, and let you preset shower settings. Top brands like Moen, Kohler, Grohe, and Hansgrohe offer app-connected shower systems for total water use awareness.
On-Demand Hot Water Recirculators
Minimize water waste while waiting for hot water with a hot water recirculating pump or on-demand hot water heater. These pumps circulate hot water through insulated pipes from the water heater to fixtures. This provides instant hot water when you turn on the faucet.
Rainwater Harvesting Systems
For the ultimate in water savings, install a rainwater harvesting system. These collect rain from the roof in a cistern. The water can then be filtered and pumped indoors for use in toilets, laundry, and other applications. This provides a free source of pure soft water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of installing water-wise bathroom fixtures?
The main benefits are reducing your environmental impact through water conservation and saving money on utility bills. You can cut indoor water usage by 25-60% with water-efficient fixtures without sacrificing performance or enjoyment.
How much can I save by installing water-efficient bathroom fixtures?
By installing EPA WaterSense certified models, you can save around 30,000 gallons per year for a family of four. This adds up to hundreds of dollars in savings annually.
Are water-efficient fixtures more expensive than regular models?
In general, water-efficient fixtures only cost slightly more than conventional models. The higher upfront cost is offset by the long-term savings on your water and energy bills. Many utilities offer rebates to make them more affordable.
Do low-flow fixtures have less pressure or perform poorly?
Modern water-efficient fixtures are engineered to provide equal water pressure, coverage, and performance as less efficient models. Flow restrictors concentrate the water stream while maintaining standard GPM ratings.
How difficult is it to install water-saving bathroom fixtures?
Most water-efficient fixtures can be installed just as easily as any conventional model. Many newer toilets use standard fittings and don’t require plumbing changes. Faucets, showerheads, and accessories can be easily swapped out.
How long do water-efficient bathroom fixtures last?
High-quality water-saving fixtures have lifespans equal to standard models. Most have warranties of 5-15 years or longer. Key brands like Kohler and American Standard are designed for durability and long-term use.
Conclusion
Upgrading to water-wise bathroom fixtures allows you to save water, money, and the planet while still enjoying a stylish spa-like bathroom. With so many choices in low-flow toilets, faucets, showers, and more, you can easily build a green bathroom with all the beauty and luxury of a conventional model. Investing in water efficiency also improves your home’s value. With smart planning, you can seamlessly blend environmental responsibility with sophisticated style.
