The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) WaterSense program has refined its draft labeling specification for single-family new homes (initially released in May 2008). The revised draft specification addresses efficient plumbing fixtures, hot water delivery systems, appliances, landscape design and irrigation.
The revised specification will ensure that future WaterSense-labeled homes still use 20% less water than similar new homes, while reducing the burden and cost to the builders. The modifications to the previous draft specification have built in some additional flexibility; the changes include:
Hot water delivery systems–New performance standards no longer require specific types of hot water delivery systems or insulation of hot water pipes.
Landscaping–The revised landscaping criteria allow for a wider variety of landscaping options.
Irrigation systems–Additional requirements for minimum distribution uniformity values and rain shutoff devices increase the efficiency of newly installed irrigation systems.
Water budget tool–An improved resource, the water budget tool, better reflects growing seasons and plant water requirements.
Inspection guidelines–An optional sampling protocol adds flexibility and streamlines the inspection process for production builders.
These changes reflect further research, stakeholder comments and industry best practices. Once the specification is finalized, homes built and inspected to the specification will bear the WaterSense label.
The updated specification for single-family new homes will be available for public comment through July 7, 2009. EPA anticipates releasing the final Water-Efficient Single-Family New Home Specification in late 2009.
EPA welcomes input on the revisions made to the specification, and encourages all interested parties to view the most recent documents and provide comments. In addition, EPA plans to hold at least one public meeting on the revisions in June 2009.
Source: EPA
