Water conservation is more than just turning off the tap while we brush our teeth. It needs to become a part of every aspect of our daily lives. Why? In addition to the environmental impact, if you're a landlord or a property manager, managing water efficiently is also a smart business move.
Implementing water-saving technologies will bring you several benefits. One of the most immediate ones is a significant reduction in utility bills. Other than that, these devices can prevent major water damage, increase your property value, and lower maintenance costs.
In this article, we will explore a whole arsenal of emerging technologies designed to help keep water usage on the down low. It's time to make every drop count.
1. DrizzleX Leak Detection
DrizzleX is like a detective for water leaks in multifamily properties. Can you imagine all those sneaky leaks that hide in toilets and faucets, which waste gallons of water unnoticed? Well, DrizzleX tracks them down and puts a stop to this wastefulness.
It's also got an eye on water usage by tenants, alerting property owners to any overuse. This isn't just about fixing a drip here and there, but a much more significant impact. Buildings equipped with DrizzleX often see their water bills plunge by 25-45% or more.
As a landlord, you know this is not just a drop in the bucket. It's a real splash in reducing water waste and saving money.
Usage Alerts
One of DrizzleX's solutions is usage alerts. Since many people aren't really aware of their excessive water usage, the alerts can be very helpful. With this system, you can communicate with your tenants about their water consumption habits, and back it up with precise data too.
Leak Detection
Leaks can be sneaky because they aren't always visible. With property inspection, you can see the obvious ones. But silent leaks only get noticed when the high charges show up on your utility bills. DrizzleX gives you water control because you can monitor the water flow in your building.
The system will notify you with real time data about where and how much water is being lost.
E-mail Notifications
Once DrizzleX spots the leak, it will notify you via email. The message you receive will include all the details about the exact apartment and fixture that is the culprit, how many gallons were used, how much it will cost you if the problem isn’t fixed, and even possible causes for the water waste and how to fix it.
Billing
DrizzleX also allows you to bill your tenants. Tenants conserve water when they are the ones paying for it. You can easily create water bills based on accurate water consumption and bill them fairly.
2. High-Efficiency Low Flow Shower Heads
Showerheads are often overlooked, but they have a big impact on a rental property's overall water usage. If your tenants use some of the conventional showerheads, it can result in higher utility costs and unnecessary water waste.
EPA's study shows that if you switch to high-efficiency models, you can save up to 2,700 gallons of water per year. These devices also don't affect the water pressure. It stays high but with minimal usage, which is important for water conservation.
3. Dual-Flush Toilets
Dual-flush toilets come with a clever dual-flush mechanism that ensures water conservation. There are two different flush options: a low-flush volume for liquid waste and a high-volume flush for solid waste.
The main difference between these types of toilets and the traditional ones is in the amount of water used for each flush. Conventional models can't make a difference in the types of waste and they use excessive amounts of water every time.
Dual-flush models can reduce water use by at least 50% compared to the conventional models. This can especially make up for when you unknowingly have a running toilet that causes high water usage on your water bill.
4. Faucet Aerators
Faucet aerators are compact add-ons that blend air with water coming from a faucet. These devices help create a steady, high-pressure stream while using less water at the same time. Additionally, they help minimize the splashing and decrease faucet noise.
The devices are easy to install and they're compatible with most conventional faucets. When it comes to water conservation, they can reduce up to 30% of excessive water use compared to the traditional faucets, all without compromising the flow for everyday tasks such as handwashing and dishwashing.
5. Water-Saving Dishwashers
Water-saving dishwashers not only save water but also save energy at the same time. If you choose to add it to your rental property, it will certainly look appealing to more tenants, especially the environmentally responsible ones.
Using any type of dishwasher compared to hand washing can save about 5,000 gallons of water per year. But, if you switch to a dishwasher that's designed to conserve water, you can save even more than that.
6. Eco-Friendly Washing Machines
Eco-friendly machines are another competitor in the battle against water waste. These machines help with energy and water conservation and reduce costs. Some models even recycle rinse water.
One of the main things that makes these machines eco-friendly is the fact that they can save up to 3,300 gallons of water annually. How?
Compared to the traditional machines, which always fill their tubs full of water, the eco-friendly models can detect the amount of laundry and use the appropriate amount of water to wash it.
7. Greywater Recycling Systems
Greywater recycling systems turn waste into a resource right inside your home. Greywater is the relatively clean wastewater from baths, sinks, washing machines, and other kitchen appliances.
Instead of letting this water go down the drain, greywater systems capture it for reuse. This water can't be used for drinking, but it can be used for toilet flushing, laundry use, and plant watering.
These systems can reduce tap water usage by up to 45%.
8. Pressure Reducing Valves (PRVs)
Pressure reducing valves are components of plumbing systems designed to regulate and maintain consistent water pressure levels. These devices are particularly useful when water pressure from the main supply exceeds safe or optimal levels.
For example, if the water pressure coming into your property goes over 80 psi, that's when you need this type of regulator. It can help reduce the system pressure to 10 - 20 psi and save thousands of gallons of water per year.
FAQs In Relation to Water-Saving Technologies
What is water-saving technology?
It's effective technology that helps track and reduce excessive water use.
What are the examples of technology that reduces wastewater?
Some of the most used technologies for water conservation include DrizzleX, water-saving dishwashers, high-efficiency shower heads, low-flow faucets, and dual-flush toilets.
What are 3 tips for water conservation?
Make sure to (1) turn off the tap if you're not using it, (2) identify and fix any leaks, and (3) use unclean water for watering plants, car washing, or other purposes.
Why should landlords educate tenants about techniques for reducing water usage?
Landlords should educate tenants about water-saving techniques as it can encourage them to reduce excessive water usage, which leads to reduced utility bills and benefits the environment.
Are there incentives or rebates available for installing water conservation technologies?
Many local governments and utility companies offer incentives or rebates for installing water-efficient technologies, such as tax breaks, direct rebates, or reduced utility rates.
