If you’re looking for effective ways to make your home more energy-efficient, the good news is that there are several affordable ways to do it. One of the best places to start is by replacing all the old, dated taps in your bathroom and kitchen with modern, energy-efficient tapware.
Whether you’re opting for Nero tapware or another brand from your local home improvement centre, choosing energy-efficient taps will make a significant difference in your home. What makes tapware energy-efficient? How will installing them benefit your home? Keep reading to find out more.
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What are Energy-Efficient Tapware?
Essentially, energy-efficient tapware refers to all types of tapware that have been designed to reduce water consumption. The technology used in these products also saves the energy used to heat the water.
The significant features in these energy-efficient tapware include the following:
- Low-flow technology: All energy-efficient taps use aerators to mix water and air. This reduces the flow rate without compromising the water pressure you’re used to. Here you’ll be using less water, but at the same pressure.
- Sensor-operated taps: An impressive feature of these taps is that they have been designed to turn on and off when hands or other objects are detected. Moving your hands away from the tap ensures that the tap isn’t left running. These taps are an excellent choice for homes where little ones haven’t learnt how to close taps.
- Timer-operated taps: With this feature, taps dispense water for a specified amount of time. This ensures that only the necessary amount of water is used.
Another standout feature of energy-efficiency tapware is rated according to the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards, more commonly known as WELS. You will see specific ratings on the labels, and the higher the rating percentage, the more efficient the tap.
Many Positives to Take Advantage of
There are many positives to installing energy-efficient tapware in your home. The most significant of these are highlighted below.
1. Look forward to Reduced Water consumption
The number one reason that aspect that makes energy-efficient taps so appealing is that they drastically reduce your home’s water consumption. This happens by using technology to restrict water waste.
For instance, operating the sensor-operated taps ensures that the tap switches off when a hand or object moves away from the tap. There’s no running tap left behind. Many models also have an automatic shut-off feature, which ensures there’s no dripping.
2. Saves Energy
Energy-efficient taps not only save water but also energy. Many people overlook the fact that heating up water uses a significant amount of energy, which goes straight onto your energy bill. Using an older, traditional tap means you paying for the water and the energy to heat it. Making the switch will see you saving on both.
Some energy-efficient tapware models, such as the Hansgrohe CoolStart, are designed to only dispense cold water when the handle is in the centre position. This reduces the water from heating every time the hot water tap is opened.
3. Has Many Environmental Benefits
In short, using less water and energy contributes to a reduced carbon footprint. These taps are ideal for use in water-scarce areas where even the main water line is under pressure. Using less water equals less opportunity for wasting.
4. Allows for a More Hygienic Approach
Using a traditional tap often means you’re unintentionally spreading around germs and bacteria. This happens when you’re opening and closing the tap. For instance, you’re using a hand with bacteria on it to open a tap. You then wash your hands and then touch the bacteria-filled tap to close it. All you’re doing is putting the bacteria back on your hands!
Modern, energy-efficient taps make use of sensors which allow for hands-free operation. You simply place your hands under the tap, and water sprays out. As soon as you remove your hands from the sensor, the water shuts off. There’s no need for you to touch the tap at all.
This not only keeps your taps clean but also reduces the potential spread of germs and bacteria. These types of sensor taps are ideal in high-traffic areas such as the kitchen and bathroom. Sensor taps are also the perfect addition to any workspace.
5. Offer a Modern Design
The overall design of tapware doesn’t have much to do with your goal to make your home more energy efficient. However, it’s essential to point out that upgrading your tapware also adds to the aesthetic appeal in the space where you’re using it. A wide range of designs and styles on offer means you will easily be able to find the perfect option to enhance your current or planned décor choice.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your tapware to more energy-efficient solutions offers you a host of benefits. The most prominent of these include water efficiency, enhanced functionality, and will even see you saving money on your water and energy bills.
Modern, energy-efficient solutions make it simpler than ever to get the ball rolling on making your home more sustainable or workspace more sustainable.
