May 23 2007
Celebrate May is Remodeling Month and green up your bathroom with energy efficient and sustainable products. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Remodelers offers this guide of typical appliances and fixtures -- and their lifespans -- so you can make smart choices for that next bathroom project.
"Homeowners can easily transform their bathrooms with these simple energy and water efficient upgrades," said NAHB Remodelers Chair Mike Nagel, CGR, CAPS, a remodeler from Chicago. "Whether it's simply swapping out a shower head or completely gutting the room, it makes a lot of sense to go green when remodeling a bathroom."
Water heater - Average life span: 10-11 years.
Heating water can account for around 15 percent of a home's energy bill. With an energy-efficient tankless water heater, homes can save $40 $100 a year.
Showerhead - Average life span: lifetime of home.
A high-efficiency showerhead can save $15 a year on your water bill,
making it a smart, simple choice when remodeling your bathroom.
Toilet - Average life span: lifetime of home.
Though some items may need replacement, your typical toilet lasts practically forever. A high efficiency model can save more than $90 a year in water use.
Ventilation Fans - Average life span: 10 years.
Home owners will save electricity by using energy-efficient exhaust fans. When remodeling your bathroom, an Energy-Star(r)-rated fan can save $120 over the product's lifespan.
Bathroom Faucets - Average life span: 20 years.
A high-efficiency water faucet may only save you about $3 a year, but that puts an additional $60 in your pocket over the product's life.