The average flow rate for a bathroom lavatory faucet today is 2.2 gallons per minute (gpm) (8.3 liters per minute [lpm]). The WaterSense specification is 1.5 gpm (5.7 lpm) at a water pressure of 60 pounds per square inch (psi) (413.69 kilopascals [kPa]). Aerators and flow restrictor devices that retrofit a faucet to bring its flow rate to the WaterSense specification also qualify as a WaterSense product.
WaterSense Showerheads
The average flow rate for a showerhead today is 2.5 gpm (9.5 lpm). The WaterSense specification is a flow rate of 2.0 gpm (7.6 lpm), although some showerheads are achieving even lower flow rates, such as 1.75 gpm (6.6 lpm). Manufacturers are designing water-efficient showerheads to make the water flow feel richer, more luxurious, or more invigorating, yet use less water. A Water – Sense showerhead might have a wider spray, pulsing, or a massage spray. Your client may want to see the showerhead demonstrated before making a choice, based on personal preference.
water leaks
An important factor in efficient use of water is to avoid water leaks. Toilets or faucets that drip can waste tremendous amounts of water. For example, the EPA estimates a faucet that loses one drop of water per second can waste 3000 gallons (11,356 liters) of water in a year. Talk to your client about selecting quality fixtures, fittings, and water-using appliances that will be easy to maintain and are less likely to develop leaks. This is an important water conservation measure, but it will also save money and reduce maintenance for the client.
