By Rami Moorosi
The bathroom accounts for nearly half of the water that is consumed in the home, so saving water in the bathroom not only helps to save money but the environment as well.
Toilets
Toilets consume about 27% of the total water used indoors, making them the highest water-consuming device. Replacing an old toilet with a new one, could save thousands of litres of water per year. By installing a dual-flush toilet you can reduce water consumption by almost 30%. The Water Rhapsody Multi-Flush is a simple device that replaces the flushing mechanism in your toilet. This allows you to flush manually, holding the flushing handle for as long as you require. A device such as this reduces water consumption by 20%. According to Rand Water, a simple toilet leak can waste 200 litres of water per day.
Taps
Becky Roussow of Life Style Bathrooms notes: “Bathroom sanitaryware design trends are reflecting the need for conservation.” A tap such as the Ponsi EcoSole from Italcotto, for example, works by giving some resistance when 12,5 degrees is reached by the lift action of the lever – this indicates that sufficient water flow is obtained for normal daily use. Thermostat taps such as the Grohtherm, from Grohe, regulate temperatures, thus saving energy and water consumption because you do not leave water running while waiting for it to reach the right temperature.
Showerheads
Showerhead models with aerators and flow restrictors can drastically reduce water usage. A showerhead such as the Crometta 85 from Hangrohe, for example, ensures water flow is limited to a minimal six litres per minute. A unit such as this uses a combination of cleverly devised flow regulation and central air intake, which reduces water consumption by up to 60%, regardless of the pressure. Adjustable or low-flow showerheads are another alternative to conserve water.
Recycling water
Another product by Water Rhapsody, called Second Movement, uses grey water to flush toilets. The Hansgrohe Pontos AquaCycle, from Akwadoc, also recycles and cleans grey water to be used again in a variety of applications from watering of plants, to laundry and flushing, providing up to 50% water saving.
We can save water by being mindful of wasteful habits and bathroom technology designed to help us.
