Plumbing Upgrades for Energy-Efficient Homes

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When you think of boosting your home’s energy efficiency, plumbing may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, making strategic plumbing upgrades can significantly lower your utility bills while reducing your negative impact on the environment.

Not only do energy-efficient plumbing systems save you money, but they also add long-term value to your home. If you’re looking to transform your property into an eco-friendly haven, here are some plumbing upgrades that can enhance its energy efficiency.

Low-Flow Fixtures

If your plumbing fixtures haven’t been updated in a while, it’s time to make the switch to low-flow models. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, low-flow plumbing fixtures are actually designed to use less water without compromising performance. 

For reference, just switching to a rainfall showerhead can save you more than 2,000 gallons of water every year. On top of that, you can also save around 55% to 70% water usage should you decide to ditch your old toilet and upgrade to a low-flow model.

These savings aren’t exclusive to your water consumption; they also significantly lower your energy usage. By using less water, your water heater is also heating less, reducing the strain and workload on your unit. In the context of plumbing, less water usage means less energy, leaving you with lower utility bills and less spending on repairs and maintenance.

Going Tankless

Switching to a tankless water heater also goes beyond uninterrupted morning showers since, more importantly, they champion energy and water usage efficiency. Unlike conventional water heaters, which continually heat and store water, tankless units only heat water if needed. This ensures that you never run out of hot water while minimizing energy waste.

Homeowners can actually save between 24% to 34% in energy costs by upgrading to a tankless water heater. Not only are these units highly efficient, but they also have a longer lifespan of up to 20 years— a lifetime service more than enough to pay for itself. When considering this upgrade, make sure to consult with a local plumber to ensure proper sizing and installation.

Energy-Efficient Appliances

Energy-efficient appliances aren’t that cheap, so you might be tempted to just settle with your old appliances, thinking you can save more than buying a new one. Well, it’s actually the opposite. 

If your appliances are older, they’re probably using more energy (and water) than you think. Upgrading to Energy Star-rated appliances is a great way to save on both your water and energy bills.

Modern dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters use up to 50% less energy and water compared to older models. So, while they might have a higher upfront cost, these appliances will save you money in the long run. 

Pipe Insulation

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to reduce energy loss is through pipe insulation. Insulating your water pipes helps prevent heat from escaping, ensuring that hot water remains at the desired temperature as it travels from the water heater to your taps. According to the US Energy Department, pipe insulation can save you around 3% to 4% on your annual heating costs.

Not only does this reduce energy waste, but it can also prevent pipes from freezing during colder months, which can lead to a costly plumbing repair. If you live in a particularly cold climate, insulating your pipes is a smart investment. Book a plumber to evaluate which pipes would benefit most from insulation to achieve the utmost energy efficiency.

Water Softener System

Do you usually struggle to keep your surfaces spotless due to those white stains that keep coming back? Those are limescale from your mineral-rich tap water. Aside from breaking your back, they are also notorious for disrupting your plumbing efficiency and at times, breaking your appliances prematurely.

The solution? A water softener system that filters out unwanted minerals from your water supply. By having one installed in your home, you can prevent buildup and ensure that your appliances and plumbing work more efficiently and are guarded against malfunctions.

Soft water is key to helping your water heaters and dishwashers function more effectively, reducing energy consumption. According to the Water Quality Association, using soft water can reduce energy use by up to 29% in some households—a significant savings, especially nowadays when energy costs aren’t getting any cheaper.

Be Energy-Efficient with Ortega plumbing, Heating & Air’s Trusted Plumbing Solutions

There are plenty of plumbing upgrades that can help turn your home into an energy-efficient powerhouse. If you’re ready to make your home more eco-friendly while saving on those utility bills, it’s time to partner with a reliable plumber who knows how to get the job done right.

At Ortega plumbing, Heating & Air, we’re here to guide you through all your energy-saving plumbing options. From tankless water heaters to water-efficient fixtures, our professional plumbers will help you choose and install the right solutions that fit your needs. Count on us for expert recommendations and top-quality service that will make your home more energy-efficient than ever.

Call us today to schedule your consultation or request a free estimate—your energy-efficient home is just a call away!

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