In the United States, water flow rate restrictions for bathroom faucets are regulated to promote water conservation. Here are the key points regarding these restrictions:
Federal Regulations
EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) WaterSense Program: Bathroom faucets labeled with the WaterSense certification must have a maximum flow rate of 1.5 gallons per minute (gpm) at 60 pounds per square inch (psi) of water pressure. This is a standard set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to promote water efficiency.
State Regulations
Some states have additional restrictions that are stricter than federal regulations:
California: Bathroom faucets sold or installed in California must be certified with CEC (California Energy Commission) have a maximum flow rate of 1.2 gpm at 60 psi. This is part of the state’s efforts to conserve water.
New York: Similar to California, the maximum flow rate for bathroom faucets is 1.2 gpm at 60 psi.
Texas and Colorado: Both states have adopted the WaterSense standard of 1.5 gpm but encourage the use of faucets with lower flow rates.
Local Regulations
Some local municipalities may have their own regulations that can be stricter than state or federal standards. It's a good idea to check with your local water authority for specific requirements.
Voluntary Standards
LEED Certification: For buildings seeking LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, there are additional incentives to use low-flow fixtures to earn points towards certification.
Tips for Compliance
Check Labels: Look for the WaterSense label when purchasing a bathroom faucet to ensure it meets federal efficiency standards.
Verify Local Codes: Always verify with local building codes and regulations to ensure compliance with any additional restrictions.
Consider Aerators: Installing aerators on existing faucets can reduce flow rates and help achieve compliance with water conservation standards.
All Lulani faucets are certified and comply with CEC and EPA standards. All faucets have aerators installed to conserve water while maintaining strong water pressure and flow.
By adhering to these regulations and choosing efficient fixtures, you can contribute to water conservation efforts while ensuring your bathroom is up to code.
