Water meters are now compulsory for all new-build homes, making householders more careful about how long they turn the taps on for. In this handy article, Seamans Building offer expert information on six key types of features which you may be able to have fitted in your property, helping you to effectively reduce your consumption of one of the world’s most precious resources.

A Dual-Flush Toilet

Older single-flush toilets use around nine litres of water each time the handle is pulled.

Most modern lavatories have bypassed this outdated system by having a dual flush, using only between two to six litres of water per handle pull. If you have an old cistern then installing a displacement device in it is a simple solution, and one which reduces water volume.

Consider also placing a device called a delayed-action inlet valve into your cistern, preventing the toilet from refilling before the outlet valve closes. This thrifty inlet valve ultimately helps you save on water usage and cost.

Bidets and shower toilets not only offer a more hygienic experience but also help the environment by cutting the amount of water used in manufacturing toilet paper. Investing in at least one of these will also keep you on trend with the growing popularity of eco bathrooms.

Low-flow or Timed Showers

A popular misconception is that power showers use less water than baths. However, a ten minute power shower can use as much as 150 litres of water, while a bath uses up to 60 litres.

There is no need to sacrifice the luxury of a hot power shower should you wish to save on your water costs. Low-flow showers are an excellent green solution for those who love the feeling of a powerful spray. These combine water and air into the shower head and use only six to eight litres per minute. Shower timers are another useful tool, encouraging water saving habits, and are cheaper than purchasing a low-flow head.

A Smaller Bath

Another solution to conserving water is to fit a smaller bath. While you might not be able to stretch out properly inside one, especially if you are tall, you can console yourself by thinking how much money you are saving. Fancy design features will help too. Angled corner baths save space, and those which slightly slope downwards are quicker to fill, and thus use less water.

Low-Flow Taps

Low-flow devices are also available for taps. Called tap aerators, these devices mix air and water in a similar way to low-flow showers, saving water with every use. One drawback is these are mostly unsuitable for homes with low water pressure. A clever solution for this is to install taps which have both a regular and a low-flow function. Comparable to dual flush toilets, these give you a choice between the two different functions.

Water Butts

These useful gadgets are essential if you want to cut down on the amount of water used to maintain your garden. Water butts collect and store rainwater from drainpipes and gutters in a process called water harvesting. This water can then be used on thirsty plants.

A complementary option is to have a kit fitted to downpipes which divert water used in bathrooms and kitchens. This recycled resource is called ‘grey water’ and is an economic and safe way to irrigate your garden.

Smart Appliances

Most modern appliances like washing machines and dishwashers are sufficiently energy efficient. But if you want to take your water saving habits to a new level, then smart appliances are ideal for you.

Wi-fi enabled washing machines are increasingly popular. These high tech appliances automatically calculate each load to ensure appropriate water and detergent consumption. You don’t have to be home to do the laundry either, these washing machines are designed to let you operate them remotely.

Smart water leak detectors are ideal too if you want to safeguard your home from expensive water wastage and damage caused by flooding. These pinpoint the source of any leaks and can measure overall water consumption as well.

Seamans Building – a New Home Builder in East Anglia

Seamans Building, building contractors based near Bury St Edmunds, have many years of experience in home-building using traditional techniques. But that doesn’t stop us incorporating the latest energy and water-saving features into the homes we build. To find out more about our services, follow this link or call us on 01359 230430.