Residential Water Conservation Projects: Summary Report

摘要

This report describes the results of demonstration projects for water savings in homes with water conserving techniques, fixtures, and devices. The study measured water savings from low-flow plumbing fixtures and other techniques which reduce water consumption. The specific measures were (1) water saved by 3.5 gallon/flush toilets, (2) water saved by 3 gallon/minute shower heads, (3) water saved by retrofitting existing toilets and shower heads, (4) water saved by advanced water-saving fixtures, (5) effect of water pressure on use, and (6) effect of water meters on use. Principal findings were that low-flow shower heads saved 7.2 gallons per capita daily and 1.5 million BTU's of energy per capita per day. Dramatic water and energy savings can be achieved through retrofitting existing toilets and shower heads. Metering of water can result in 20 percent less water used than in unmetered households. Reduced water pressure in mains can result in 3 to 6 percent less water consumed. Advanced water-saving fixtures can result in even greater savings than current low-flow or low-flush fixtures. The .5 gallon/flush toilet would save 11.6 gallons per capita per day more than a low-flush model (3.5 gallons/flush). This study found that water savings through use of these fixtures and techniques are less than the savings documented in other studies. Although the savings are less, the confidence in estimates of water conservation has been increased. Tables, charts, and diagrams are supplied.