High-Efficiency Plumbing Products Are Now the American Standard, Providing Superior Performance While Helping to Sustain Nation’s Water Resources PISCATAWAY, N.J. (March 20, 2014) – Americans have saved more than 18 trillion gallons of water — roughly the volume of Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay — by embracing low-flow toilet technology over the past two decades since Read more
Sustainability
High-Efficiency Plumbing Products Are Now the American Standard, Providing Superior Performance While Helping to Sustain Nation’s Water Resources
PISCATAWAY, N.J. (March 20, 2014) – Americans have saved more than 18 trillion gallons of water — roughly the volume of Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay — by embracing low-flow toilet technology over the past two decades since the U.S. enacted the 1992 Energy Policy Act (EPAct) that mandated less water per flush, according to the Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE). That’s hard to imagine, but it is enough water to fill 27 million Olympic size swimming pools.
Since 1994, when the 1992 EPAct legislation took effect, innovative toilet technology has transitioned the nation from a water-guzzling 3.5 gallons per flush (gpf) to a low-flow 1.6 gpf toilet diet and, more recently, toward high efficiency 1.28 gpf models. In the process, the amount of water consumed has been reduced by more than half, with usage rates down by 54 percent and 63 percent, respectively. These savings have been impactful, as toilets represent the single largest source of water consumption in a home, accounting for nearly one-third of residential water use, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
In addition, today’s commercial fixtures are squeezing even more performance out of each drop, offering 1.1 gpf toilets that yield a 31 percent savings over standard 1.6 gpf toilets, and urinals that operate with a meager 0.25 gpf, and cut water use by as much as 87 percent over standard urinals.
“As we mark the EPAct’s 20th anniversary, it’s important to appreciate the significant water usage efficiencies that smart plumbing technology has brought our nation,” said Jay Gould, president and CEO of American Standard Brands. “As much of the nation faces the worst drought in half a century, it is heartening to look back upon twenty years of this successful water conservation policy and realize the enormous volume of water saved by highly efficient plumbing products.”
The estimated 18.2 trillion gallons in cumulative water savings that has resulted from the use of low-flow toilets highlights how water conservation policies, such as the 1992 EPAct, impact and help sustain the nation’s water supplies, noted Mary Ann Dickinson, president and CEO of Chicago-based AWE, the national nonprofit organization dedicated to the efficient and sustainable use of water.
“These toilets help save an estimated 4.6 billion gallons of water each and every day in the U.S.,” said Dickinson. “When you add in the further water reductions achieved by high efficiency 1.28 gpf toilets, the savings are even more outstanding. Water is the critical resource issue of our time, and smart water conservation policies work to ensure that we have sustainable supplies for the future.”
The Road to High-Performing Toilet Technology
During the early 1990s, when water use restrictions first took effect, plumbing product manufacturers struggled to produce low-flow toilets that could effectively remove all waste with only 1.6 gallons of water, prompting frustration among users who resorted to counterproductive double-flushing. However, by 1998, toilet manufacturers had successfully modified flushing systems to remove waste using less water.
As the first decade of low-flow technology drew to a close, a flushing evaluation system would be introduced that changed the industry. Maximum Performance (MaP) testing was implemented in 2003 to measure the amount of solid waste removed per flush. This independent testing program inspired toilet producers to strive for the highest rating of successfully flushing 1,000 grams (2.2 lbs.) of solid waste.
In 2006, to drive even greater water savings, the EPA created WaterSense, a partnership program modeled after the EnergySTAR labeling program to help assure consumers that products will conserve and perform as promised. WaterSense-certified toilets use 20 percent less water than low-flow models, while providing strong flushing power. Commode makers were motivated to create high efficiency toilets (HETs) that used only 1.28 gpf while delivering strong flushing performance.
The American Standard Champion PRO series toilets are a perfect example. Offering a powerful flush that can easily remove 1,000 grams of solid waste, the Champion PRO models use only 1.28 gpf, meeting the rigorous WaterSense-certification standards.
Water Savings throughout the Bathroom
Toilets aren’t the only bathroom products constantly evolving and being held to more stringent water usage requirements. All American Standard bathroom sink faucets use only 1.5 gallons per minute (gpm) and are WaterSense-certified for using 32 percent less water than standard 2.2 gpm styles, without sacrificing performance. Further supporting the use of water saving faucets, the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) reported that almost half of the designers responding to its annual 2014 Kitchen and Bath Design Trends survey specified water-saving faucets and fixtures in 2013. Forty-four percent predicted that the demand will grow for water-saving bathroom products throughout 2014, according to the NKBA.
To support its belief in water savings in the entire bathroom, the company conducted a real-life test in 21 homes in the Atlanta suburbs in 2010. The study measured pre- and post-water usage after WaterSense-certified toilets, bathroom faucets and showerheads from American Standard were installed in the residences. Water savings ranged from 20 to 25 percent, plus lowered energy costs and water bills. In a follow-up survey performed in early 2014, residents reported continued satisfaction with the performance of their water-conserving faucets and fixtures, specifically citing the excellent flushing power of the HETs installed in their homes.
Every Home, Every Family Can Save Water
· National Savings: If every American home with older, less efficient toilets replaced them with low-flow units using 1.6 gpf, it would save nearly 640 billion gallons of water every year. Since the program’s inception in 2006, WaterSense has helped consumers save a cumulative487 billion gallons of water and over $8.9 billion in water and energy bills by using water efficient plumbing fixtures.
· Environmental Savings: Water efficiency standards have helped reduce the amount of energy needed to heat, pump and treat water by 64.7 billion kilowatt hours, according to the EPA. Further, these water saving regulations have also helped to eliminate 24 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, equal to planting 606 million trees.
· The Familial Flush: According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), a family of four using a single, high efficiency, 1.28 gpf toilet can save 8,760 gallons of water every year. In addition, the average household can save nearly $200 on water and sewer bills per year by installing water efficient fixtures, according to the EPA.
“American Standard is privileged to have been a part of this amazing water savings accomplishment ― conserving over 18 trillion gallons of water in the U.S over the past two decades,” concluded Gould. “It’s all part of our company’s efforts to raise the standards in bringing innovative solutions and technical leadership to the plumbing industry and our world. It’s been part of our company’s heritage for over 140 years.”
Greenway Solutions is proud to introduce a new green, organic, heat transfer fluid called Hydromx. Hydromx energy saving solution reduces energy cost up to 35% on your bills. Nano-particles within Hydromx increase thermal conductivity within the fluid thus out performing water and glycol used in all closed-loop heating and cooling systems. Yes Hydromx replaces Glycol Read more
Greenway Solutions is proud to introduce a new green, organic, heat transfer fluid called Hydromx. Hydromx energy saving solution reduces energy cost up to 35% on your bills. Nano-particles within Hydromx increase thermal conductivity within the fluid thus out performing water and glycol used in all closed-loop heating and cooling systems. Yes Hydromx replaces Glycol. Hydromx offers the same freeze protection and corrosion inhibitors as glycol without the 15%-20% energy penalty. GWS has a money back guarantee of a at least 20% energy savings for Hydromx. Hydromx also doesn’t expand when frozen, so you will never have to worry about bursting pipes or cracked pumps. I am reaching out manufacturer reps to discuss Hydromx, we offer a 10% commission. We have many real life test results on Hydromx which have shown a reduction on energy cost (oil, gas, electric..etc) between 30%-35% this winter and because of Hydromx’s superior heat transfer performance the owners will have a return on investment within 1 full year of heating or 2 heating seasons (based on 4000 HDD). Attached is product information regarding Hydromx. Within the past year Hydromx has been stocked in plumbing and HVAC supply houses from New York to Alaska. If you have any questions or would like to arrange a meeting to see a demonstration of Hydromx as well as receive literature please call me anytime.
In a celebration ceremony on Thursday, Feb. 27, Uponor North America (Uponor) was named a 2014 Community Impact Award winner in the Sustainability Category. Uponor was one of three finalists for the prestigious award that is sponsored by Minnesota Business Magazine. The Sustainability Award recognizes companies for offering their products or services in a way that’s better Read more
In a celebration ceremony on Thursday, Feb. 27, Uponor North America (Uponor) was named a 2014 Community Impact Award winner in the Sustainability Category. Uponor was one of three finalists for the prestigious award that is sponsored by Minnesota Business Magazine.
The Sustainability Award recognizes companies for offering their products or services in a way that’s better for the environment.
“We were up against some tough competition, but the emphasis on our triple-bottom-line philosophy, our community involvement and our efforts toward energy reduction at our facility made all the difference,” says Bill Gray, president, Uponor North America.
An Uponor team represented by Senior Management Committee members and members of the Sustainability Team were in attendance at the event, which was held at Aria in downtown Minneapolis.
“This award is a great honor for our company,” says Gray. “It validates the hard work and efforts in sustainability done by many at Uponor, and it helps promote Uponor as a sustainable, vibrant company that is invested in long-term growth and success.”
To learn more, read the article in the March issue of Minnesota Business Magazine that features all the winners.
Uponor, Inc. is an award-winning provider of plumbing, fire safety and radiant heating and cooling systems for the residential and commercial building markets. In 2013, the company was named Manufacturer of the Year by the Manufacturers Alliance in addition to a Top 100 Workplace by the Minneapolis Star Tribune. Uponor, Inc. employs more than 500 people at its North American headquarters in Apple Valley, Minn. For more information, visit www.uponorpro.com, www.uponor-usa.com or call (800) 321-4739.
Eemax and EcoSmart Align to Grow Green Energy Heating Services Eemax, the nation’s leading manufacturer of commercial, industrial and residential electric tankless water heaters, acquires EcoSmart, a fast- growing consumer brand for residential electric tankless water heaters based in Miami. “Adding to our team of proven experts, this acquisition will further Eemax’s position as the Read more
Eemax and EcoSmart Align to Grow Green Energy Heating Services
Eemax, the nation’s leading manufacturer of commercial, industrial and residential electric tankless water heaters, acquires EcoSmart, a fast- growing consumer brand for residential electric tankless water heaters based in Miami.
“Adding to our team of proven experts, this acquisition will further Eemax’s position as the leading solutions provider in water heating,” said Kevin Ruppelt, CEO of Eemax. “It’s an exciting new chapter for both Eemax and EcoSmart as we integrate the two organizations into a high-performing, customer-centric team.”
Eemax and EcoSmart are proven innovators in their respective fields. Going forward, development efforts will benefit greatly from the two brands highly collabrative nature, which will strengthen the combined capabilities to further the goal to make tankless technology the mainstream method for residential water heaters. EcoSmart will contribute to Eemax’s continued growth by expanding its customer base as well as increasing the company’s product portfolio.
“We are thrilled to work with Eemax. By combining resources we can more effectively reach our shared goal of providing our customers with innovative solutions that meet their hot water heating needs while saving money, energy and space,” said EcoSmart CEO Nick Cardoso.
Led by Kevin Ruppelt, president and CEO, Eemax’s facility in Waterbury, Conn. will serve as the company headquarters while EcoSmart business and distribution will continue out of Miami.
About Eemax
Eemax is the top supplier of electric tankless water heaters in the United States, as well as serving 30 additional countries worldwide through the plumbing wholesale distribution channel. Located in Waterbury, Conn., Eemax’s patented green water heating technology has revolutionized the industry by delivering a continuous supply of hot water at a preset temperature with 99 percent energy efficiency. Visit www.eemax.com for more information.
About EcoSmart
Ecosmart is a manufacturer of green energy technology based out of Miami. EcoSmart’s mission is to produce and distribute quality green energy products that are practical, efficient and economical, aiding consumers in saving money, energy and water. Visit www.ecosmartus.com for more information.
via Eemax and EcoSmart Align to Grow Green Energy Heating Services | Eemax.
2013 WaterSense Manufacturer Partner of the Year The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) named Delta Faucet Company a 2013 WaterSense®[1] Manufacturer Partner of the Year. The manufacturer of Delta®, Brizo® and Peerless® branded products was honored in Las Vegas during the sixth annual WaterSmart Innovations Conference for its commitment to water efficiency and outstanding efforts Read more
2013 WaterSense Manufacturer Partner of the Year
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) named Delta Faucet Company a 2013 WaterSense®[1] Manufacturer Partner of the Year. The manufacturer of Delta®, Brizo® and Peerless® branded products was honored in Las Vegas during the sixth annual WaterSmart Innovations Conference for its commitment to water efficiency and outstanding efforts to support the WaterSense program during 2012.
“As a WaterSense partner since the program’s inception, we are committed to working with the EPA to encourage efficient use of water resources and protect the future of our nation’s water supply,” said Richard O’Reagan, Delta Faucet Company president. “From consciously working to reduce our footprint to developing environmentally-friendly products and technologies, we recognize our role in helping to sustain the environment.”
This award marks the second time Delta Faucet Company has received this prestigious recognition from the EPA; the company was named 2011 WaterSense Manufacturer Partner of the Year. In 2012, Delta Faucet Company continued its efforts to support WaterSense labeled products and water efficiency by ensuring that 100 percent of its bathroom collections offer a faucet and showerhead that meet EPA’s efficiency and performance criteria. Also, in 2012, the company launched its CorrenteTM and PreludeTM toilets, expanding its WaterSense labeled offerings into a new category.
“The development of H2Okinetic® technology, which provides the consumer-proven feeling of a warmer, more drenching shower while using up to 40 percent less water, and Delta Touch2O® and Brizo SmartTouch Technologies, which automatically stop the flow of water when the faucet is not in use, demonstrates how we are constantly working to help users intuitively save water while improving their experience, not sacrificing it,” said Paul Patton, Delta Faucet Company senior research and development and regulatory manager.
In addition to promoting its WaterSense labeled products year-round, Delta Faucet launched a collaborative, coast-to-coast water efficiency campaign in celebration of the EPA’s annual Fix a Leak Week program in 2012. Teaming up with several utility partners in cities across the United States, Delta Faucet donated its WaterSense labeled showerheads and worked with volunteers to install them and other water-saving products in nearly 2,000 housing units in nine different cities. Delta Faucet’s Fix a Leak Week efforts resulted in more than 7 million gallons in estimated annual water savings.
In 2012 alone, WaterSense labeled products and new homes helped Americans save more than 202 billion gallons of water, or more than the amount of water needed to supply all the homes in Colorado for a year. More than 2,700 utility, manufacturer, retail, builder, organizational, and professional partners helped the WaterSense program realize these accomplishments, but every year a few in particular are recognized for their significant contributions to the program.
“All of our WaterSense partners have taken steps to reduce our nation’s water use, but several stood out in 2012 for their commitment to the WaterSense program and collaborative efforts to promote WaterSense labeled products, new homes and outreach and educational programs,” said EPA’s acting Assistant Administrator for Water Nancy Stoner. “We are pleased to honor Delta Faucet Company for its efforts that support our mission to protect the future of our nation’s water supply.”
About Delta Faucet Company
Founded by Masco Corporation in 1954 with the introduction of the single-handle faucet, Delta Faucet Company is proud to be America’s faucet innovation leader, featuring Delta®, Brizo® and Peerless® products. A WaterSense® partner of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Delta Faucet is a global organization that offers kitchen faucets, bath faucets, shower heads, shower systems, toilets and related accessories, selling products in more than 53 countries. For more information, visit www.deltafaucet.com.
About Masco
Masco Corporation (NYSE: MAS), parent company of Delta Faucet Company, is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of brand-name consumer products for the home and family, including Behr® paint; Delta® and Hansgrohe® kitchen and bath faucets and shower fixtures; KraftMaid® and Merillat® cabinets; and Milgard® windows and doors. Masco is also a leading provider of services that include the installation of insulation and other building products through Masco Contractor Services. Visit www.masco.com for more information on the Masco family of brands.
About WaterSense
WaterSense, a partnership program sponsored by EPA, seeks to protect the future of our nation’s water supply by offering people a simple way to use less water with water-efficient products, new homes, and services. Since the program’s inception in 2006, the WaterSense program has helped consumers save 487 billion gallons of water and $8.9 billion in water and energy bills.