The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s WaterSense label recognizes homes that are verified to be at least 30% more water efficient than a comparable home built with typical new construction techniques. The resources below provide how-to guidance for incorporating water-saving best practices and products in new homes.
Mandatory Requirements
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DescriptionGuide describing testing of water-using fixtures, equipment, and appliances to ensure there are no leaks. -
Guide:
Bathroom Faucets
DescriptionGuide describing how to select efficient bathroom faucets for single-family homes and multifamily buildings.
Best Practices
Hot Water Distribution
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Guide:
Core and Manifold Plumbing
DescriptionGuide describing effective ways to distribute hot water using either a core (compact) plumbing layout or a central homerun manifold piping system. -
Guide:
Demand Plumbing
DescriptionGuide describing the use of recirculation pumps to speed the flow of hot water to faucets for reduced wait times and savings in energy and water usage. -
Guide:
Multi-Family Water Metering
DescriptionGuide describing water metering of individual dwelling units in multi-family buildings.
Water Efficient Appliances & Plumbing
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Guide:
Kitchen Faucets
DescriptionGuide describing how to install EPA WaterSense labeled kitchen faucets and accessories. -
Guide:
Dishwashers
DescriptionGuide describing how to install dishwashers in new and existing homes. -
Guide:
Clothes Washers
DescriptionGuide describing how to install efficient clothes washers in new and existing homes. -
Guide:
Evaporative Cooling Systems
DescriptionThis guide describes evaporative cooling technologies which can be used to cool homes in dry climates. -
Guide:
Water Softeners
DescriptionGuide describing how to determine an efficient and effective water softener. -
DescriptionGuide describing EPA WaterSense requirements for drinking water treatment systems including water softeners.
Landscaping and Irrigation
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Guide:
Sprinkler Irrigation
DescriptionGuide describing efficient landscape watering practices using sprinkler irrigation. -
Guide:
Micro-Irrigation Systems
DescriptionGuide describing the use of micro-irrigation systems to reduce water usage in residential landscaping. -
DescriptionGuide describing how to design a water-efficient landscape that will minimize the need for supplemental water by using the WaterSense Water Budget Tool. -
DescriptionGuide describing ways to save water use in residential swimming pools and spas.