Want to cut water costs without sacrificing comfort? Learn how eco-friendly plumbing upgrades and habits can make your home a lot more efficient and sustainable.
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If you’re picturing a weak shower trickle or a faucet that barely flows, you’re thinking of the old school low-flow fixtures. Today’s models have come a long way from what they used to be. Low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads are designed to use less water without compromising pressure or comfort.
In fact, many newer fixtures use air infusion or pressure regulation to maintain flow while drastically cutting water use. For example, installing a WaterSense-labeled toilet can save up to 13,000 gallons per year in a typical household. It’s one of the easiest upgrades to make, especially if you’re planning a plumbing fixture replacement or a bathroom remodel.
It takes a lot of energy to heat water, so any improvement to your hot water system pays off twice: once in water savings, and again in energy costs. Consider swapping out older tank-style heaters for tankless models or hybrid systems that only heat water when it’s needed.
You can also insulate your hot water pipes to reduce heat loss. A few feet of insulation around pipes that run through unconditioned spaces (like basements or crawl spaces) helps retain temperature and reduce the time it takes for hot water to reach your taps. Less waiting, less water down the drain.
A single dripping faucet can waste hundreds of gallons a year. A silent toilet leak? Even more. Often, these slow leaks go unnoticed because they don’t interrupt daily routines, but you’ll definitely notice them when you get your next water bill.
At Dempsey Energy, we recommend checking your fixtures and water meter regularly. If your meter continues to move when no water is being used, it’s a sign you’ve got a hidden leak. Our plumbing team can pinpoint and repair issues quickly, whether it’s a faulty valve, worn washer, or a cracked pipe behind a wall.
When it comes to saving water, it’s not just what you install – it’s how you use it. Shaving a few minutes off your shower, turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth, or running full loads in the dishwasher can cut water use without changing your quality of life.
Some homeowners also opt for gray water systems, which redirect lightly used water (like from sinks or showers) for irrigation or toilet flushing. While it may not for every household, if you’re serious about conservation, it’s definitely an option that’s worth exploring during a remodel or plumbing upgrade.
Not all pipes and fixtures are created equal. Materials matter, both in terms of efficiency and long-term durability. Older galvanized steel or polybutylene pipes, for example, can corrode or degrade over time, leading to leaks or contamination.
When installing or replacing plumbing components, opt for materials like PEX or copper, which are less prone to breakdown and better at handling temperature swings. These materials also tend to support higher water pressure with less waste. Choosing quality now means fewer repairs – and fewer wasted resources – down the line.
Outdoor plumbing habits are often overlooked. Sprinklers running during a rainstorm? That’s a common one. Upgrade to a smart irrigation controller that adjusts your watering schedule based on real-time weather, soil conditions, and season.
Rain barrels can also help reduce demand on your main supply, especially for watering gardens or rinsing off outdoor tools. And if you’ve got an older hose bib that drips or sprays wildly, replacing it with a modern shutoff valve can make a big difference in both water use and control.
Eco-friendly plumbing isn’t just a trend; it’s a smart, lasting improvement for your home – and your wallet. From low-flow upgrades to hot water efficiency and smart irrigation, these small changes can lead to serious savings and better performance. And with so many options available today, going green doesn’t mean giving up convenience. At Dempsey Energy, we work with residents throughout Plymouth, Bristol, and Norfolk County, helping them find practical plumbing solutions that support sustainability without complicating routines. Whether you’re ready for a fixture upgrade or simply want to explore your options, we’ll be more than happy to guide you through it. Let’s take the first step toward a more efficient home – together.
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Switching to energy-efficient solutions can significantly reduce your monthly utility bills, keeping more money in your pocket year-round.
Take advantage of rebates and incentives when you upgrade to eco-friendly systems, making your investment in green energy even more affordable.
By going green, you’re helping to reduce carbon emissions and conserve natural resources, creating a cleaner, healthier planet for future generations.
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When it comes to your HVAC, plumbing, and energy needs, Dempsey Energy delivers reliable, professional, and personalized solutions in the North Attleboro area. Call today to schedule your appointment.
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