Limiting water waste is an easy way to support environmental sustainability and lower your monthly water bill. Fortunately, you can reduce your household’s water use without dramatically changing your daily habits. With the right plumbing upgrades and services, your home can run more efficiently. At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing®, we are happy to share eight eco-friendly plumbing solutions for sustainable living in Sherman, TX.

1. Low-Flow Toilets

On average, older standard toilets use about 3.5 gallons of water for every flush. Low-flow toilets significantly reduce this by using just 1.6 gallons or less. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), replacing older toilets with low-flow models throughout your home could save up to 13,000 gallons of water each year.

Not only do upgrades like these lower water bills and reduce waste, but they can also help decrease your household’s overall carbon footprint. Using less water means less energy is required for municipal water treatment and transportation, resulting in fewer associated emissions.

2. Low-Flow Showerheads

If you enjoy strong water pressure during your showers, switching to low-flow showerheads may sound like a compromise. However, the EPA reports that a single low-flow showerhead can reduce a household’s water use by as much as 2,700 gallons annually.

Thanks to modern design improvements, such as integrated aeration and water filtration, many low-flow showerheads now deliver excellent water pressure and a steady, comfortable spray. They can even help your hot water supply last longer.

3. Efficient Water Heaters

According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), water heating accounts for about 18% of an average home’s energy bill. One effective way to reduce energy use is by upgrading to an energy-efficient water heater. Models with higher uniform energy factor (UEF) ratings consume less energy, and even replacing an aging unit with a newer equivalent often results in improved efficiency.

Water Heaters With Electronic Ignition Switches

Older gas-fired water heaters typically rely on a continuously burning pilot light, which uses gas even when the appliance is idle. Many newer models use electronic ignition instead, consuming energy only when heating water.

Tankless Water Heaters

Traditional tank-style heaters store heated water and continually reheat it to maintain temperature, even when you’re not using hot water. Tankless models heat water only on demand, eliminating standby energy loss entirely.

According to the DOE, tankless water heaters can reduce energy consumption for water heating by up to 35% in homes that use 41 gallons of hot water or less per day. Homes with higher usage may benefit from two tankless units or from a high-efficiency tank-style model paired with upgraded insulation to reduce heat loss.

Solar Water Heaters

If you have solar panels already, or plan to install them, consider pairing them with a solar water heater. These water heaters can work alongside or independently of traditional electrical solar systems. With the many sunny days in Sherman, a solar water heater can provide much of your home's hot water at little to no ongoing cost.

4. Dual-Flush Toilets

Dual-flush toilets offer an excellent alternative to low-flow toilets for homeowners who prefer a more flexible flushing option. These models feature two buttons: one for full-flushes and one for partial-flushes. Half-flushes use just 0.8 gallons of water, making total household water usage comparable to that of low-flow toilets while giving users more control.

5. Greywater Systems and Rainwater Harvesting

Greywater systems capture water from bathroom sinks, tubs, showers, and washing machines for landscaping use. Greywater contains manageable levels of contaminants, making it suitable for safely nourishing lawns, gardens, and other outdoor vegetation.

If you use large amounts of water for irrigation, a greywater system can significantly lower your water consumption and help keep your landscape healthy even during drought conditions or watering restrictions.

Rainwater harvesting systems collect and store rainwater for various home uses. Basic systems direct water to outdoor hoses and irrigation, while more advanced filtration setups make it possible to use rainwater for flushing toilets, washing clothes, and — even with proper treatment — for drinking or bathing.

6. Leak Detection and Repair Services

One of the most effective ways to conserve water is by identifying and repairing leaks. Hidden leaks can waste considerable amounts of water over time. According to the EPA, even a single leaking faucet can waste up to 3,000 gallons annually.

You may have concealed leaks behind walls, under sinks, or in underground supply lines. Signs include unexplained increases in water bills, higher indoor humidity, or dripping sounds inside walls. Professional leak detection and repair can help prevent water damage and reduce unnecessary water use.

7. Whole-House Plumbing Inspections

Annual whole-house plumbing inspections are an excellent way to catch leaks, inefficiencies, or excessive water pressure early. During an inspection, plumbers verify that your fixtures, supply lines, and appliances are functioning correctly and safely.

If your home’s water pressure is too high, we can install a pressure-reducing valve to help prevent excess water waste. These valves can also extend the lifespan of your plumbing appliances by reducing wear and tear.

8. Insulate Your Pipes

With winter temperatures in Sherman occasionally dipping below freezing, pipe insulation is essential. Insulated pipes are less likely to freeze and burst, preventing costly repairs. Insulation also helps your water heater operate more efficiently by reducing heat loss as hot water travels through your pipes.

With help from the experts at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing®, you can create a more efficient, eco-friendly plumbing system for your Sherman, TX home. We offer professional fixture replacements, water heater upgrades, leak detection services, and more. Whether your goal is to save energy or reduce water waste, our team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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