Green Term Defined: WaterSense an EPA Partnership Program
WaterSense is a label program created by the Environmental Protection Agency for consumers to easily identify water efficient products. It is similar to Energy Star in that it identifies products that are more efficient. In order to qualify a WaterSense labeled product meets the following criteria:
- performs as well or better than their less efficient counterparts
- are 20% more water efficient than average products in that category
- realize water savings on a national level
- provide measurable water savings results
- achieve water efficiency through several technology options
- obtain independent, third-party certification
For companies to use the WaterSense logo, they must sign a WaterSense partnership agreement with the EPA. This agreement defines the roles and responsibilities of EPA and the partnering organization, as well as proper use of the label on packaging and in marketing.
The label can be found on products for the home including bathroom sink faucets, showerheads, toilets, urinals, wather-based irrigation controllers, and even new homes. Using products with the WaterSense label reduces water consumption lowering utility bills.
Projected websites from the WaterSense website:
Replacing Old Faucets – 700 gallons of water annually
Replacing old toilets – 20-60% savings = 13,000 gallons of water annually
Replacing old shower heads = 2,900 gallons annually
As you can see, this could result in some nice annual reductions in your utility bill.