In recent years, Americans have changed how they view and use limited resources like fossil fuels. While many focus on electrical fixtures when shifting to green energy, plumbing usage also plays a significant role in conservation efforts. Use the guide below for eco-friendly plumbing alternatives to help you contribute to a greener planet. 

3 Environmentally Friendly Plumbing Solutions

1. Install Energy-Efficient Pipes

While new structures are built with pre-insulated pipes, older homes are typically outfitted with standard systems prone to heat loss, so they require more energy to continually warm your water. 

If you don't want to replace your existing pipes with energy-efficient alternatives, insulate the pipes with foam or tape to help maintain consistent water temperatures. 

2. Switch to a Solar Water Heater

While traditional water heaters rely on natural gas, solar-powered varieties use clean, renewable energy derived from the sun through panels installed on your roof. Solar water heaters can be used in any climate, though they’re most effective in areas with milder year-round temperatures.

While the cost of installation can be off-putting, solar energy systems pay for themselves over time by offsetting your monthly utility bills. 

3. Convert to a Dual-Flush Toilet

Traditional toilets use 1.6 gallons of water per flush for both solid and liquid waste. Dual-flush toilets, on the other hand, provide low-flow options that use less water for liquid waste and more for solid. Because the toilet uses the most water in a typical American household, this small shift results in significant water and cost savings.

Studies show that switching to a high-efficiency toilet can reduce toilet water use by over 50% and indoor water use by an average of 16%, saving 15,000 to 20,000 gallons of water each year for a family of four.

If you want to invest in eco-friendly plumbing, contact the professionals at A-1 Budget Plumbing in Kailua, HI. Since 1987, their knowledgable team has provided reliable and affordable plumbing services, including solar water heater installation and maintenance, energy-efficient pipe replacements, and sewer reroutes. Contact them today at (808) 526-3747 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about their services.