Green Plumbing: Eco-Friendly Upgrades That Lower Bills and Water Waste

Saving money and helping the environment often go hand-in-hand, especially when it comes to your home’s plumbing. Small changes can make a big difference in how much water you use and how much you pay each month. Thinking about your home’s efficiency is a smart step, and it starts with the systems you use every day. Barron Plumbing & Heating is here to help you understand how simple upgrades to your plumbing in Brigantine City, NJ can lead to a more sustainable home.

Low-Flow Fixtures and Toilets

One of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce water use is by installing low-flow fixtures. Older faucets and showerheads can waste a lot of water every minute. By switching to a low-flow model, you can still have a great water pressure experience while using significantly less. A low-flow showerhead can cut your water use by half, and a low-flow faucet can save gallons of water a day. Toilets are another big water user. Older toilets can use up to 7 gallons per flush, while modern, low-flow models use just over 1.6 gallons. A simple plumbing repair upgrade like this can quickly add up to substantial savings over time.

Tankless Water Heaters

Traditional water heaters keep a large tank of water hot at all times, which uses a lot of energy. A tankless water heater, on the other hand, only heats water on demand. This means you aren’t paying to keep a tank of water warm when you aren’t using it. Tankless models are much more energy efficient and can save you money on your utility bills. They also take up less space than traditional units and can provide a continuous supply of hot water, so you never have to worry about running out. While the initial investment may be higher, the long-term savings on energy and water make it a wise choice for many homeowners. Professional plumbing services can assess your home’s needs to determine if a tankless water heater is right for you.

Greywater Recycling Systems

For those looking for a more advanced, eco-friendly solution, your plumber may recommend a greywater recycling system as an option. This system takes water from sources like your sinks, showers, and laundry machines and filters it so it can be reused for other purposes. This “greywater” is perfect for watering your garden or flushing your toilets. It is not drinkable, but it is clean enough for non-potable uses. Using this system drastically reduces the amount of fresh water you need from the city supply.

FAQs

Q: What are some signs of a leaky toilet?

A: A running toilet is a common sign of a leak. You might also hear a ghost flushing sound or notice that the toilet bowl takes a long time to refill after flushing. A simple test is to put a few drops of food coloring in the tank; if the color appears in the bowl without flushing, you have a leak.

Q: How long do tankless water heaters last?

A: A tankless water heater can last much longer than a traditional tank model, often 20 years or more with proper maintenance. This is double the lifespan of many standard water heaters, which typically last around 10 years.

Q: Are eco-friendly plumbing upgrades expensive?

A: The cost varies depending on the upgrade. While some larger systems like tankless heaters or greywater recycling may have a higher upfront cost, smaller changes like low-flow fixtures are very affordable. All of these upgrades can save you money on utility bills over time, offsetting the initial investment.

If you are ready to reduce water waste and lower your bills, Barron Plumbing and Heating can help. We are an owner-operated plumbing company that has been meeting the needs of homeowners for over 25 years. Our satisfaction guaranteed approach means you can trust us to deliver reliable, high-quality solutions that last. Call us today to schedule an appointment.