The Water Energy Nexus: Demonstrating Energy Savings in WaterSense-Labeled Homes Artwork

The Authority Podcast: Plumbing and Mechanical

When talking about the built environment, we would do well to remember, "We shape our buildings, and afterwards, our buildings shape us." Therefore, on each episode, we'll discuss the latest trends from IAPMO in plumbing and mechanical safety, sustainability, and resiliency. Join me, your host Christoph Lohr, and together, we'll explore the ways we can make our buildings shape us for the better.

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The Authority Podcast: Plumbing and Mechanical

The Water Energy Nexus: Demonstrating Energy Savings in WaterSense-Labeled Homes

September 17, 2024 • IAPMO • Season 4 • Episode 14

In this episode, Jonah Schein, Technical Coordinator for Homes and Buildings with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) WaterSense® program, demonstrates how water-efficiency measures also save energy and reduce carbon emissions, using data from 219 WaterSense-labeled homes in Menifee, California.

Jonah describes how every gallon of water has an "energy signature" based on the processes required to extract, convey, treat, and distribute that water, noting the dramatic differences among various water sources, with some requiring over 20 times more energy than others. Noting the benefits of right-sizing plumbing pipes for water-efficient fixtures, Jonah emphasizes the tremendous opportunity in leveraging water efficiency to cost-effectively reduce energy use and carbon emissions.