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Ways to Make Your Bathroom More Energy Efficient
Chileshe Mwape

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Ways to Make Your Bathroom More Energy Efficient

Chileshe Mwape


There are a number of design features and fittings that can
improve bathroom energy efficiency and reduce energy bills and
greenhouse pollution. Remodelling your bathroom to make it more
energy efficient will improve your home because doing it right
will reap the benefits of health, safety, comfort and will save
you money and energy.



1. Energy Efficient Hot Water System Select an energy efficient
hot water system and place it as close to the bathroom and
laundry as possible to reduce pipe length and reduce heat loss.



2. Energy Efficient Labelled Ventilation Fans Bathroom moisture
is often controlled by the use of an exhaust fan. The fan sucks
out the moisture-laden air, which is then replaced by drier
outside air.



Install properly sized energy efficient labelled ventilation
fans to control moisture in the air while you shower or bathe.
By removing moist air and drying out your bathroom, a
ventilation fan will help prevent mold and mildew. Fans help
remove moisture, which can increase the level of humidity in
your house. High humidity can damage building materials. Worse,
high humidity can cause mold growth and mold may affect your
family's health. Install self closing exhaust fans to avoid heat
loss or gain when not in use



3. Energy Efficient Labelled Lighting Another easy way to make
your bathroom more energy efficient is to install energy
efficient labelled lighting (e.g., Light Fixtures: suspended
lights, ceiling-mounted lights, cabinet lights, recessed lights,
or compact fluorescent bulbs). Attractive, energy-efficient
lighting adds value to your home and reduces home energy bills.
4. Insulation - Insulate Walls and Ceilings The walls behind
tubs or showers are often poorly insulated and air-sealed.
Opening these walls as part of the remodelling project provides
an opportunity to ensure comfort by sealing air leaks with caulk
or expanding foam and installing insulation. Also make sure to
air seal around plumbing and electrical penetrations.



5. Energy Efficient Windows and Doors If you are replacing
windows, doors, and skylights, consider those with the energy
efficient label. New technologies in the glass and frame systems
help make your home more comfortable, and lower heating and
cooling costs too.



6. Energy Efficient Showerheads The shower is the largest user
of household hot water. Install an AAA showerhead to reduce the
amount of hot water consumed. AAA showerheads are available at
many bathroom supply stores and hardware stores. A flow rate of
approximately 7L per minute is considered as AAA for showerheads.



7. Water Pipes and Water Saving Devices Insulate hot water pipes
to reduce heat loss and save energy. Install water saving
devices like water saving aerators and flow regulators in your
taps. Select water saving taps that have a similar water saving
rating.



About the author:


Copyright 2005. Chileshe Mwape writes for the href="http://www.designer-bathrooms.org.uk/">Designer
Bathrooms website at: href="http://www.designer-bathrooms.org.uk/">
http://www.designer-bathrooms.org.uk/ which features
bathroom remodelling tips, ideas and supplies.