Why Is it Better to Have Low-Flow Aerators?
Low-flow aerators, devices that fit in faucets and showerheads, mix air with the water to smooth the flow of water and maintain steady pressure. Such aerators reduce water usage and water heating costs. Does this Spark an idea?
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History
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The Federal Energy Policy Act of 1992, which placed restrictions on maximum water flow from faucets manufactured domestically, paved the way for the use of low-flow aerators. Flow is limited to no more than 2.5 gallons per minute, or gpm, at 80 pounds per square inch.
Water Savings
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Without a low-flow aerator, a faucet uses 4 to 7 gpm and a showerhead uses 5 to 8 gpm, according to the Flex Your Power website. A household can save about 7,800 gallons of water per year using an aerated faucet and showerhead.
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Other Facts
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The decrease in energy consumption reduces the annual production of carbon dioxide by 376 pounds from a showerhead and 83 pounds from a faucet. New kitchen faucets come equipped with low-flow aerators, which can also be purchased separately and installed in fixtures manufactured before 1992.
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