One area that homeowners often overlook when making upgrades around their property is the plumbing system. With a few thoughtful upgrades, this can significantly boost your home’s eco-friendliness and efficiency. By opting for energy-efficient plumbing solutions, you not only save water and energy but also lower your utility bills while contributing to a more sustainable future.
Upgrade to Low Flow Fixtures
Water saving fixtures are some of the easiest, most cost effective upgrades you can make. Traditional showerheads can use up to 15 litres of water per minute, but modern low flow fixtures can use as little as 6 litres per minute without sacrificing water pressure. This simple change can save hundreds of litres of water each year for a family of four, helping conserve vital water resources and reducing your water bills.
Similarly, low flow taps can reduce water use from 15-18 litres per minute down to just 2. They still provide the same water pressure you’re accustomed to, but use far less water, making it a small but effective upgrade that adds up quickly.
Tankless Hot Water Systems
Traditional hot water systems work by constantly heating a tank of water, which can be an energy wasting process, especially when you don’t need hot water 24 hours everyday. These on-demand systems will heat water only when you need it, saving you up to 50% on energy costs compared to conventional systems. This means no more running out of hot water during a shower and no more wasting energy by keeping water hot around the clock.
A tankless system is a great investment for Toorak homeowners looking to future proof their homes, save energy, and ensure they always have hot water on demand. It’s the perfect option for large homes or households with high hot water usage.
Replace Old, Inefficient Pipes
Older homes can have outdated plumbing pipes made from materials like galvanised steel or even lead. These pipes can not only lower the water quality but also result in higher energy costs as they’re less efficient at delivering water. Replacing old pipes with more efficient, modern materials like PEX or copper can help reduce water wastage, enhance water pressure, and lower the amount of energy required to heat water.
Replacing pipes may seem like a big job, but it’s a valuable long term investment. Not only does it improve your home’s efficiency, but it also enhances the overall value of your property.
Energy-Efficient Appliances
Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances can have a significant impact on both your water and energy consumption. For example, choosing a 6-star rated dishwasher that uses just 9.5 litres per cycle instead of an older model can make a noticeable difference in your water usage over time. Similarly, modern washing machines use far less water than older models and are highly efficient systems.
When replacing appliances, look for the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) rating, which gives you a clear indication of water usage, helping you make more sustainable choices.
Professional Installation
Using licensed and experienced plumbers guarantees that your new fixtures and systems will be fully compliant with local regulations. It also ensures that the installation is done correctly, preventing potential issues down the line and maximising the efficiency of your upgrades.
Andrew J Robertson Plumbing brings years of experience serving the Toorak area, specialising in plumbing upgrades that enhance your home’s efficiency and sustainability. Whether you’re looking to install low flow fixtures, upgrade your hot water system, or replace outdated pipes, our team provides expert advice, professional installation with ongoing support to keep everything running smoothly.
With our professional installation and reliable service, you can rest assured that your upgrades will be done right the first time.
