Tag: earth

Homeowners Should Consider These Eco-Friendly Appliances 

People were skeptical when energy-efficient appliances first came out. They were concerned about cost, installation, and whether the devices saved water and energy. Now decades later, there’s no question that these appliances save hundreds of gallons and hundreds of dollars in the long run. 

This Earth Day, homeowners should consider outfitting their residences with “green” appliances, especially those produced by EnergyStar and WaterSense. Not only do these appliances outperform their competitors, but many states offer tax incentives, cutting down on the initial cost of purchase and installation. 

Three Water-Saving Appliances 

• Water-saving toilets: The average toilet uses about 1.6 gallons of water per flush, but WaterSense toilets use only 1.2 gallons of water. It doesn’t seem like much difference, but it adds up over time. 
• Eco-friendly showerheads: The EPA notes showerheads use about 17 percent of the home’s water usage. The average showerhead uses 2.5 gallons per minute, while WaterSense showerheads use no more than 2 gallons without sacrificing water temperature or pressure. 
• Bathroom faucets: WaterSense’s bathroom faucets use only 1.5 gallons of water per minute, while the average bathroom faucet uses 2.2 gallons. 

 

Three Energy-Efficient Appliances 

EnergyStar has a wealth of energy-efficient appliances that save gas, water, and electricity. They also reduce a home’s carbon footprint. Some of these products include: 

• Smart thermostats: EnergyStar notes that homeowners will spend at least $900 a year to heat and cool their homes. Smart thermostats seek to reduce that number by offering customizable heating and cooling schedules, streamlined controls, and other measures. 
• Energy-efficient water heaters: Most standard water heaters come with storage tanks that heat water. Tankless water heaters don’t do that. Instead, they heat water while on its way to the faucet or showerhead, reducing energy usage. 
• Washing machines: EnergyStar washing machines conserve both water and energy. They also come with a host of settings, allowing homeowners to customize each wash based on their clothes and the size of their load of laundry. 

 

Energy-Saving and Water-Efficient Pipes 

In addition to considering energy-efficient appliances, homeowners should also consider outfitting their homes with new pipes. Here are a few things to think about: 

• Insulating the pipes: This would keep water from freezing and pipes from bursting. It would also prevent the water’s heat from escaping the system. 
• Opting for metal pipes: Steel pipes are good insulators that would prevent hot water from cooling down. 
• Pipe thickness: The thicker a pipe is, the less likely it will leak or burst. 

 

About Scott Plumbing 

Scott Plumbing is a local, family-owned, and operated business that provides award-winning service to its community. Their trusted technicians are background checked and drug tested so homeowners can feel at ease. Plus, they are always on time and never leave a mess behind. Call the experts today for plumbing services in Huntsville, AL.

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