WaterSense is a US EPA Partnership Program that promotes water efficiency through home certification and product labeling.
New homes can now obtain a WaterSense label. According to their website, "WaterSense labeled new homes help families save an average of 10,000 gallons of water and at least $100 on utility costs each year by including WaterSense labeled plumbing fixtures, an efficient hot water delivery system, water-efficient landscape design, and other water- and energy-efficient features." These homes will include efficient hot water systems, WaterSense labeled features (which can save up to 5,000 gallons of water a year compared to a standard new bathroom), Energy Star appliances, and native landscaping.
Bathroom in the first WaterSense certified home in Chapel Hill, NC, built by Vanguard Homes.
Currently, builders can apply for a WaterSense certification, or homeowners can have their home inspected by a WaterSense Partner. Click here to find a WaterSense Partner in your area. A new home must be built by a WaterSense builder partner and meet all of the identified criteria to become a WaterSense labeled new home. Criteria include:
1. Indoor water use, including plumbing, plumbing fixtures and fittings, appliances, and other water-using equipment. This includes evaluating leaks, measuring static service pressure, maximums on the amount of hot water stored at a time, maximums on evaporative cooling systems, and guidelines for drinking water treatment systems.
2. Outdoor water use, including landscape design and guidelines for Irrigation systems, pools/spas, water features, slopes, and temporary landscapes.
3. Homeowner education. Homeowners must be provided with a comprehensive operating manual, including illustrative drawings and schedules of irrigation systems.
2. Outdoor water use, including landscape design and guidelines for Irrigation systems, pools/spas, water features, slopes, and temporary landscapes.
3. Homeowner education. Homeowners must be provided with a comprehensive operating manual, including illustrative drawings and schedules of irrigation systems.
In order for a product to obtain a WaterSense label, they must use 20% less water and perform as well or better than standard models. Click here to find WaterSense labeled products.
Look for the WaterSense label when choosing products.
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