Low-Flow Faucets and Showerheads

Low-Flow shower heads and faucet aerators are the single most effective water conservation savings you can do for your home. The aerator (the screw-on tip of the faucet) ultimately determines the maximum flow rate of a faucet. Typically, new kitchen faucets come equipped with aerators that restrict flow rates to 2.2 gpm, while new bathroom faucets have ones that restrict flow rates from 1.5 to 0.5 gpm. For maximum water efficiency, purchase aerators that have flow rates of no more than 1.0 gpm. Some aerators even come with shut-off valves that allow you to stop the flow of water without affecting the temperature. When replacing an aerator, bring the one you're replacing to the store with you to ensure a proper fit.

Low-flow shower heads and faucet aerators are inexpensive to replace, simple to install, and can be one of the most cost-effective water conservation measures. They can reduce your home water consumption as much as 50% and reduce your cost of heating the water by as much as 50%. This conservation of water and energy is not only good for the environment, but the savings in your utility bills will pay for the cost of the aerators within a few months.

The Great Remodel

Winter is the perfect time of year to itemize what changes you'd like to make in your house. Take a day to sit and make a list of what you'd like changed, from new throw rugs to a complete remodel. If a remodeling job is on your list and you want to begin as soon as the weather warms, start talking to contractors now. If you just bought a home, live in it for a full year before you undertake a major remodel. Watch how your house interacts with its environment through spring, summer, fall and winter. This will help you decide what you truly need.


The five keys to a successful project:

1. The Budget - Knowing your budget and sticking to it is key. A great design will fall short if you run out of cash and have to settle for lower grade products.

2. The Timeline - Remodeling is a series of interconnected events, so a delay in one can cause a domino effect that impacts the schedule/cost. Talk with your contractor about how to keep everything on track.

3. The Right Contractor - Take time to hire the right contractor, electrician, painter, etc. Check references and visit other places that showcase their work.

4. The Objective - Why are you remodeling? If you plan to stay in the home forever, spend a little more on appliances or a whirlpool tub. If you plan to move soon, don't spend money on items others won't appreciate.

5. The Contracts and Permits - You should have a written contract or estimate (on small jobs) before any work is done. A permit is needed for modest to large projects and when making some structural, electrical, roofing, and plumbing changes (see your local town for details).