Looking for low-flow, but high performance from your toilet?  The stylish high-efficiency toilets on the market now are sure to make your bathroom remodel, or selection of fixtures for a new home, more sustainable.

It’s important to conserve water considering we flush about 30% of a household’s potable water down the toilet!  Replacing an old toilet with a new efficient model is definitely a green stride!  You can actually save thousands of gallons of water, and lower your water bills or impact on your septic system, by making the switch!

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) makes selecting a new water-efficient toilet easy by labeling such models with the WaterSense logo.  “Products are independently certified by a third party to confirm that they meet EPA’s criteria for efficiency and performance.”

You’ll find dual-flush toilets which use as little as .9 gallons per flush for “#1″ and 1.6 gpf for “#2″, as well as single flush models which use as little as 1.28 gpf!  Older toilets use between 3.5 – 5 gallons per flush!  The new high efficiency toilets are available in a variety of styles and price points by countless manufacturers, such as TOTO, American Standard (pictured above–Cadet 3 model), Glacier Bay, Kohler, Pfister, Sterling, Villeroy & Boch, and Zurn, just to name a few.

Quick tip:  Some local water utility companies even offer rebates for replacing old toilets!

Source:  EPA WaterSense

You may be thinking that there’s nothing wrong with rain, unless of course we’re getting too much, but that’s not what I’m talking about here….  Yes, it is a life-giving precious resource, but it is also a conduit for pollutants that make their way from our lawns, streets and parking lots into our fresh watersheds.

Pollutants such as pesticides, fertilizers, heavy metals, trash, motor oil, brake dust, chemicals and even heat from paved surfaces can wreak havoc on our water supply.  Rainwater travels downhill directly into waterways, or it is captured by storm drains where, most of the time, it goes straight into our rivers and lakes.

So, what can we do to help the situation?

• Create a rain garden to capture & filter rain water and break down pollutants found in harmful runoff.  Not only do the native plants in the rain garden slow down and reduce the amount of polluted water flowing into our streams, but they look beautiful and provide habitat for birds and butterflies.
• Garden naturally without the use of herbicides, pesticides and synthetic fertilizers.  Natural and organic alternatives can be used instead.  If you use a lawn-care service, choose one that uses natural methods to produce a lush lawn.
• Pick up litter (plastic bottle caps especially) and dispose of it properly.  These objects end up in our waterways and not only pollute it by leaching chemicals, but are eaten by birds and aquatic animals causing harm and death.
• Think twice before adding impervious surfaces to your property.  Impervious surfaces, such as conventional asphalt & wet laid concrete driveways, walkways and patios, turn rain water into runoff.  Keep these surfaces to a minimum and opt for greener alternatives, such as pervious concrete/asphalt, permeable pavers, salvaged clay bricks/stone/gravel, wood chips, nutshells and recycled tumbled glass.  Dry laid patios and walkways allow water to be absorbed into the ground and they don’t crack from freeze/thaw conditions like wet laid surfaces.  More on these sustainable options in a later post.
• When house hunting, realize that new suburban construction creates a ton of impervious surfaces, from new roads, drives and sidewalks to such compacted soil around the developed areas that they absorb little water and further contribute to runoff.
• Reduce your lawn by adding large beds of native plants and trees to aid in rain water infiltration.
• Add a rainbarrel under your downspouts to capture and store those precious raindrops which can then be used to water your lawn and garden.
• Consider a green roof for your city flat.  A green roof helps provide stormwater management, along with many other benefits.  Plus it looks great!

photo by Greg Hayter

Whether you’re creating a relaxing outdoor “room” in a large backyard or making the most of a small balcony, the soothing sound of a bubbling fountain adds tranquility to any space.  They’re great for drowning out street noise or serving as a water source for birds.

Fountains that include solar-powered pumps are easy-to-install and don’t require electricity to run.  Water use is even minimized because the flow of water is recirculated through the fountain for a continuous supply.

From classic to contemporary designs, today’s solar fountains are available as  table top models, free-standing and even compact floating fountains for pools and ponds.

APPLIANCES:  When your old appliances are consuming significant amounts of energy (and money), it may be time for replacement.  The Consortium for Energy Efficiency (CEE) promotes the Super-Efficient Home Appliances Initiative (SEHA).  SEHA appliances are the most efficient ones of the Energy Star program and are available by most appliance manufacturers.

• Refrigerator:  The refrigerator typically consumes the largest amount of energy in most households.  If you currently have a model made before 2001, it’s not nearly as efficient as it could be.  Here’s a pdf of the CEE’s Refrigerator Qualifying Product List which includes brands, model numbers, sizes, and kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity used per year.  (Tier 3 in the table lists the most efficient refrigerators).  Remember not to locate the fridge next to a stove or dishwasher.
• Stove/Oven:  The most efficient models are those with induction elements which transfer electromagnetic energy directly to the pan, leaving the cooktop cool (an added safety bonus).  The next most efficient electric cooktops are ceramic glass units with halogen elements as the heat source.  Also, self-cleaning units are more insulated, but you’ll want to use a little ‘elbow grease’ instead of the self-cleaning feature since that does consume a good amount of energy to run.
• Dishwasher:  Check the Energy Guide label for an Energy Factor (EF) of less than .65, or an estimated energy use of less than 340 kWh/year.  Some models have an energy-saving no-heat drying feature that uses fans instead of a heating element.
• Microwave:  Look for a good warranty as well as a smaller model since this will use less energy.
• Instant Hot Water Heaters:  These devices will provide hot water immediately and will save water and energy.
• Light Fixtures:  Energy Star rated models save energy and are available in a wide variety of styles.  Solar Tubes are great options too and are less expensive than skylights.
• Bathroom Sink faucets:  Brands carrying the Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense label will use about 20% less water without sacrificing functionality.
• Showerheads (wall-mounted or hand-held):  Again, look for the WaterSense label or “low-flow” versions.  These showerheads still retain water pressure, but use much less water.
• Toilets:  If your toilet was installed prior to 1980, it uses 5-7 gallons of water per flush!  Between 1980 and 1993, it uses 3.5 gpf; and those made in 1994 and later, use 1.6 gpf (check the date which is typically stamped in the toilet tank).  High-efficiency WaterSense labeled toilets save 20% over current federal standards and have been independently certified for equal or superior performance.  Dual-flush models can save even more water.
• Exhaust Fan:  When properly-vented to the outdoors, these devices remove moisture, steam and humidity which prevents mold and mildew build-up.  Look for an Energy Star rated model which will use 70% less energy and has a low noise rating.  Some models integrate a light fixture.

photo courtesy of HGTV

Here are some tips to increase your older tank’s efficiency:

• Lower the tank’s temperature to 123 degrees F.  This will also prevent scalding.
• Install a water heater timer, especially if your water heater dates back to 1998 or earlier.  They’re easy to install and relatively inexpensive ($40-160).  Programmable models are even available so you can fully customize time-frames.
• Wrap it in a hot water tank blanket.
• Fix leaky faucets.
• Insulate the room the tank is located in.
• Opt for off-peak metering if it’s available in your area, and place such appliances as the hot water heater, dishwasher and washing machine on it.
• Turn it off when you’re out of town. “For electric heaters without a switch, you can turn it off at the breaker box. For gas heaters, follow the instructions printed on the heater. (Usually you can just turn the thermostat, NOT the gas knob, to OFF — unless you feel you’re competent to re-light the heater when you return.)”
• When it’s time for replacement, consider purchasing an electric or gas tankless model or solar thermal hot water system.

source:  Saving Electricity

photo courtesy of Michael Cote

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, “Molds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions), irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins).  Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.  Allergic responses include hayfever-type symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash (dermatitis).  Molds can also cause asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mold. In addition, mold exposure can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs of both mold-allergic and non-allergic people.”

Controlling moisture and preventing mold growth in the home:

• Dry water-damaged areas and items, whether due to flooding, leaky plumbing or other sources, within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.  If mold is already present, wash it off hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry completely.  If absorbent items, such as carpeting or ceiling tiles, become moldy, they’ll likely require replacement — a great opportunity to purchase more sustainable items.  Better flooring options include natural wool carpeting or hard surface flooring (tile, natural linoleum, hardwood, cork or bamboo).
• Reduce indoor humidity to 30-60%.  Vent bathrooms, dryers and other moisture-generating sources to the outside (not the attic); use (Energy  efficient) air conditioners and de-humidifiers in hot, humid climates (be sure to clean or replace filters when necessary); increase ventilation and open windows to allow for fresh air; and use exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing and cleaning.
• Prevent condensation on cold surfaces (windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation (recycled cotton, cellulose, or soy-based spray foam).  Caulking around windows and using storm windows keeps the interior glass warmer and reduces condensation of moisture there.  It also makes your home more energy efficient.
• Increase air circulation around the house by:  using ceiling fans and other fans, moving furniture away from walls; and by opening closet doors and doors between rooms.
• Pay special attention to carpet on concrete floors. Carpet can absorb moisture and serve as a place for biological pollutants to grow. Stained concrete floors can serve as thermal mass to help keep temperatures comfortable year-round.  Use area rugs which can be taken up and washed often. In certain climates, if carpet is to be installed over a concrete floor, it may be necessary to use a vapor barrier (plastic sheeting) over the concrete and cover that with sub-flooring (insulation covered with plywood).

If you suspect hidden mold, it may be growing behind wallpaper, drywall or paneling; the top side of ceiling tiles; or the underside of carpets and pads.  Other possible locations include areas inside walls around pipes (with leaking or condensing pipes); the surface of walls behind furniture (where condensation forms); inside ductwork; and in roof materials above ceiling tiles (due to roof leaks or insufficient insulation).

1. Install aerators on your kitchen and bathroom sink faucets.  They are inexpensive and easy to replace existing ones.  The number of gallons consumed per minute (gpm) is imprinted on the side of these devices.  By installing low-flow aerators, you can save 1 1/2 gallons per minute, or more.  That really adds up!   WaterSense.gov has a product finder (aerators are posted near the end of the list).
2. Turn off the water when shaving (fill the basin with a little water for rinsing the razor), brushing teeth and soaping up.  It’s amazing how much water just goes down the drain during these activities.
3. Take a short shower instead of a bath, unless of course, you really need Calgon to take you away!
4. Collect water in a pitcher while letting it run to get hot or cold, then use it to water indoor and outdoor plants.
5. Install a water-conserving showerhead.  Whether you like a hand-held sprayer or wall-mounted showerhead, there’s a wide variety available in all price ranges.
6. Check and fix any leaks you may have in your toilets, faucets, showerheads, irrigation systems and hoses.  It is estimated that 10% of homes in the U.S. have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day.
7. If your car really needs washing, clean it with non-toxic waterless carwash products.  These products work really well, are easy to use, and have minimal impact on the environment, plus you don’t even have to turn on the hose!  Perfect for apartment and condo residents!
8. Instead of rinsing off dishes headed for the dishwasher, scrape off food residue.  Today’s dishwashers can handle it!  Also, a large portion of food waste can be composted rather than thrown in the trash or down the garbage disposal (plus your garden will thank you!).
9. Wash only full loads of laundry, or use the appropriate water level or load size selection on the washing machine.  Typical washing machines use up to 40 gallons of water per load!  (Front-loading machines use 40-75% less water).
10. Avoid cutting your grass too short as longer grass blades help shade each other, reduce evaporation, and inhibit weed growth. A rainbarrel is a great way to collect rainwater for landscaping uses.

photo by Lijo Jose

Another benefit of gas tankless water heaters is the longer lifespan (about 20 years) compared to tank-type water heaters.  Whether you’re building new or planning an upgrade in existing construction, gas tankless water heaters are an efficient way to heat your home’s water. 

When determining the size of the unit that’ll work best, consider the hot water demands for your household in terms of how many gallons per minute (GPM) you expect to use at any given time.  The more likely you are to have the shower, dishwasher and clothes washer going at once, the larger the GPM you will need.  You can minimize this by easily installing low-flow showerheads and water-conserving aerators on faucets.  You can save even more energy and water by replacing dishwashers and clothes washers with Energy Star models when it’s time.

Find Energy Star qualified gas and propane tankless models here.  Federal tax credits of $300 are available for Energy Star gas tankless water heaters.  You can also find rebates in your area by checking off the box marked Whole-Home Gas Tankless under the Residential Water Heaters heading here.

1. Install a low-flow showerhead in your bathroom.  Don’t let the name of it scare you because the latest in these devices work very well with no compromise in performance.  Plus, they only use a fraction of the water that conventional showerheads spew out.  I love the 5 spray settings that my hand-held “Eco-flow” model by Waterpik offers!  Wall-mounted varieties are on the market as well.
2. Opt for toilets that are high efficiency (HET) when looking to replace an older, inefficient toilet.  There are even dual flush toilets that allow you a choice of how much water goes down the drain with each flush.  If you’re looking for a way to conserve with your existing toilet, check out this cool retrofit option.
3. When purchasing new kitchen or bath faucets, look for the WaterSense label which will conserve water.  It’s available on many models by several manufacturers.   Motion-activated faucets are another high-tech option.
4. Dishwasher on the fritz?  Go for Energy Star!  These models will not only save water, but energy too!
5. Need a new washing machine?  Again, Energy Star models save on water and energy consumption with no sacrifice in performance.  The Consortium for Energy Efficiency (CEE) promotes the Super-Efficient Home Appliances Initiative (SEHA) which is defined as the upper end of the Energy Star program.  Most appliance manufacturers offer models that meet these high standards for both superior energy and water savings.  Click here for a list of these makes and models.
6. Install instant hot water systems under sinks in kitchens and baths to speed up the time it takes for the water to run hot.
7. Tankless hot water systems are super efficient and provide water on demand while conserving energy and water.
8. Place a rainbarrel underneath your downspouts to collect rain water which can be used for lawn and garden watering.
9. Setting up a greywater system will divert wash water from sink, bathtub and washing machine drains to be used for landscaping.
10. Reduce your lawn size and consider xeriscaping (dry-scaping) or drought-tolerant native plants to beautify your surroundings.

photo courtesy of Luis Argerich

According to the EPA, “Efficient water use can have major environmental, public health, and economic benefits by helping to improve water quality, maintain aquatic ecosystems, and protect drinking water resources.”

Even if your source of water is a well, you should still be conscious of water conservation.  Many times, wells go hand-in-hand with septic systems, and anyone who has a septic system knows that you want to minimize the amount of water that flows into it.

1. Install aerators on your kitchen and bathroom sink faucets.  They are inexpensive and easy to replace existing ones.  The number of gallons consumed per minute (gpm) is imprinted on the side of these devices.  By installing low-flow aerators, you can save 1 1/2 gallons per minute, or more.  That really adds up!   WaterSense.gov has a product finder (aerators are posted near the end of the list).
2. Turn off the water when shaving (fill the basin with a little water for rinsing the razor), brushing teeth and soaping up.  It’s amazing how much water just goes down the drain during these activities.
3. Take a short shower instead of a bath, unless of course, you really need Calgon to take you away!
4. Collect water in a pitcher while letting it run to get hot or cold, then use it to water indoor and outdoor plants.
5. Install a water-conserving showerhead.  Whether you like a hand-held sprayer or wall-mounted showerhead, there’s a wide variety available in all price ranges.
6. Check and fix any leaks you may have in your toilets, faucets, showerheads, irrigation systems and hoses.  It is estimated that 10% of homes in the U.S. have leaks that waste 90 gallons or more per day.
7. If your car really needs washing, clean it with non-toxic waterless carwash products.  These products work really well, are easy to use, and have minimal impact on the environment, plus you don’t even have to turn on the hose!
8. Instead of rinsing off dishes headed for the dishwasher, scrape off food residue.  Today’s dishwashers can handle it!  Also, a large portion of food waste can be composted rather than thrown in the trash or down the garbage disposal (plus your garden will thank you!).
9. Wash only full loads of laundry, or use the appropriate water level or load size selection on the washing machine.  Typical washing machines use up to 40 gallons of water per load!  (Front-loading machines use 40-75% less water).
10. Avoid cutting your grass too short as longer grass blades help shade each other, reduce evaporation, and inhibit weed growth. A rainbarrel is a great way to collect rainwater for landscaping uses.

photo courtesy of Cassandra Jowett