Nowhere is this more prevalent for developers than when designing and specifying for bathrooms. Water efficiency calculations already make up an important part of ensuring finished homes are legislatively compliant, and Approved Document G of the Building Regulations makes for interesting reading. In fact, it mandates that the consumption of drinkable water in a new property should not exceed 125l per person per day. However, it’s not just about meeting regulations, as water efficiency is more of a priority for new buyers than ever – homeowners are not only trying to guard against rising bills, but also are conscious of reducing their own footprints. Specifying a bathroom equipped to achieve a reduction in consumption is an opportunity for developers then, by implementing water-saving measures they can add value and future proof projects, which is where new technology is really making a difference.
Hidden Brilliance
Much of the technology supporting water-efficient bathrooms lives behind the scenes, built into the systems that have shaped modern bathrooms. Ideal Standard pioneered the ceramic disc cartridge in 1969, which made it possible to create single lever taps. FirmaFlow®, the latest iteration of the ceramic disc has been developed for maximum water and energy efficiency– meaning it’s continuing to be ahead of the curve.
Ideal Standard technology doesn’t just help reduce water usage though, it also ensures that you’re not using hot water unless you’ve asked for it. For example, Blue Start® works to save energy in the background by keeping the boiler switched off until hot water is actively selected. This small innovation can produce energy savings of up to 50% and is just one example of where savings can be found without asking users to change (based on a four person, gas-heated household).
Best of both worlds
There’s a common misconception that sustainability always means sacrifice, but clever design enables a happy coexistence between water economy and performance. Dual-flush toilets have long been the norm in newer developments, and AquaBlade® from Ideal Standard takes that to the next level. This award-winning system delivers unprecedented hygiene, eliminates splashing, and is purpose-built to perform at lower water volumes. Ultimately, water economy needn’t dominate a design – the Singular™ philosophy ensures complete compatibility across Ideal Standard’s entire product portfolio, giving developers the flexibility to embrace efficiency and aesthetics. It also provides that one-stop-shop that will allow quick and easy access to spare parts, maintenance guides, and keep technology working well into the future.
A fresh start
The UK is set to build hundreds of thousands of new homes in coming years, homes that will be part of a world where water is a scarcer resource. If we can make water-saving technology the norm in the bathroom and beyond, we have the opportunity to seta new standard for water efficiency in these developments, putting everyone in a much better position to thrive in this changing landscape.