Plumbing Consultants and green plumbing

What Is Green Plumbing and How Does It Work?

Green plumbing refers to methods to reduce water consumption and improve sustainability. Plumbing consultants must ensure the design has eco-friendly plumbing and maximises water recycling.  Moreover, the freshwater resources are limited, making it essential to use water efficiently.

Features of Green Plumbing:

1. Water conservation: The plumbing consultants incorporate water conservation by recommending low-flow fixtures, waterless urinals and water recycling.  
2. Energy Efficiency: Using energy-efficient pumps, solar-powered water heating, and variable speed drives improves energy efficiency.
3. Plumbing materials: The use of recycled materials for plumbing helps in sustainability. Additionally, the use of durable materials is a must.
4. Wastewater treatment: Treatment of wastewater ensures water recycling and reduced dependence on local government
5. Rainwater harvesting

Research says that water-efficient fittings reduce water utilisation by 20-30%. Green plumbing typically includes low-flow fittings, rainwater harvesting systems, energy-saving fixtures and water recycling.

Benefits of green plumbing

1. Lower costs
2. Reduced use of potable water
3. Reduced wastewater discharge
4. It reduces the strain on the aquatic ecosystem.
5. Helps in water preservation
6. Useful for green certifications

Green plumbing fixtures

Neither the National Building Code nor the other codes and regulations provide guidelines for the flow of fixtures. However, some fixtures that are part of green plumbing include:

1. Flush tanks with small flushes
2. Provision for water recycling. Typically, recycled water is used for landscaping and horticulture.
3. Infra-red operated urinals and taps
4. Low-volume or dual water closets

Leak monitoring devices ensure there is no leak in the water systems and there is control of the water consumed. 

Role of plumbing consultants in green plumbing

The role of plumbing consultants includes:

1. Documentation for green certification
2. Preparation of strategy to conserve water and energy and material selection
3. Communicating with the project stakeholders for clarity.
4. Increasing the efficiency of your company’s building and overall productivity 

By incorporating these green plumbing principles, industries improve energy efficiency and help in a sustainable future.