The concept of green plumbing is still relatively unknown in South Africa. This is changing however as South African plumbers and water related stakeholders are fast realising the importance of conserving water. But what does green plumbing mean? The concept is actually very simple. Green plumbing refers to these stakeholders actively applying methods and products aimed at conserving water.

This can be done in many ways, and with this article we will explore your options of doing the right thing and becoming more green.

The most important issue of sustainability around plumbing is water conservation. This requires correct installations by QUALIFIED PLUMBERS who appreciate risk assessment and management as well as installing products that are Standards approved.

Process of Plumbing from Installation, to Materials and Choices

Once again, a qualified plumber must be used and preferably a member of the Institute as this offers follow up should there be problems with the installation. Materials selection will depend on the application. However, material, whatever is used, must hold the SABS mark. The green choices are the materials that offer the longest lifespan together with the correct fittings (the fittings are crucial as the leak will start at the fitting point not the pipe length) and also offers the greatest efficiency in delivering potable water. For example, with geysers, the green issue is not how many times the geyser is switched on and off or how many blankets one uses to cover it but the consumption/usage of hot water. So the consumer needs to be educated on usage as well as the correct installation code of practice.

Architects/Property Owners

The questions architects and property owners should ask in reference to green plumbing should range around efficiency, materials that are SABS, where can one achieve the maximum benefit from hot water distribution and the heat generated by an HVAC system for instance. There are certain synergies that can be gained here between air-conditioning and plumbing. Water storage, including rain water harvesting, which is a requirement in commercial buildings, etc must be stored in a manner that allows for usage cost effectively.

Regarding piping this should be done in the most cost effective manner and the property owner would need to state this. Here he/she would use the services of a Consulting Engineer/ Wet Services Engineer as the design of plumbing is an engineering function. The architect in most cases would not get involved in the plumbing details.

The owner should also ensure his building is utilising electronic systems, water saving, rather than the hand operated taps, mixers and urinals, as in public places water from taps are just left running. Geysers and the setting of them should be at a 55 degree level which is controllable by a Building Management System. Capital costs are high but it pays back over a relatively short space of time. The selection of taps/mixers/showers and cisterns will be "green" orientated e.g. dual flushing systems and electronic systems as mentioned earlier. Both have to insist that installations are done in accordance with SANS 10252, 1 & 2 and SANS 10254.

Insulating Geysers

As stated earlier the insulation of geysers is not the main issue, it helps, but not to any major extent. It is the usage that counts. The geyser is a highly technical piece of machinery and has developed well over the years to ensure electricity and therefore water savings. Lagging the pipes is hugely beneficial as heat is lost as the hot water is carried from the geyser to the tap/mixer. The positioning of the geyser is important as well. If the geyser is to supply the kitchen and is placed far away from the kitchen the water has far to travel and if the pipes are not lagged (insulated) this is where greater losses occur.

Solar and plumbing are complementary. Solar is using the sun as an energy source whereas the geyser uses electricity. As far as the plumber is concerned the installation techniques are the same, i.e. pipe fitting and the movement of water. We see the installation of solar systems being the function of the plumber and the decision to use geysers or solar or both needs to come from the property owner or designed into the system by the engineer.

Future of Sustainability

The plumber's role is critical in ensuring sustainability of water. A qualified plumber understands risk assessment which will indicate that he/she will ensure that water travels in the most effective route giving the greatest efficiency. The plumber will ensure that the engineers design is installed to the letter. Should the plumber feel that improvements can be made this will be discussed with the engineer and owner, if need be, and implemented.

The plumber is well versed with the applicable laws pertaining to water/plumbing and can advise accordingly. For example, with Dept of Water Affairs looking at introducing a Water Efficient Labelling System for plumbing components it makes sense that the plumber will have the direct knowledge of what constitutes an efficient product and can advise accordingly.

It is accepted that everyone must play a part in ensuring sustainability form Government to the consumer and everything in between. The plumber will install according to the law and encourage the consumer to use water carefully and intelligently. The plumber therefore is critical and vital in the bigger picture.

Trends

Water recycling is currently enjoying the most attention on the international green plumbing scene. Australia once again leads the charge with an innovative programme in this regard, with a focus on recycling water by South East Water, the water authority in the state of Victoria. The system they currently have in place utilises a separate water supply from a treatment plant. This recycled water can be used for watering the garden, flushing toilets, washing cars etc, fire fighting and even used in ornamental ponds etc. The recycling process is very closely monitored and the water has even been deemed safe for animal consumption.

Products

There are already many green plumbing products available on the market, this include, among others:

• rain water harvesting products
• rain water flushing toilet systems
• gravity feed systems/pump systems
• domestic grey-water systems
• Grey-water treatment systems
• sewage treatment systems and septic tanks
• water efficient sanitary-ware

Contributed by:
Rory Macnamara
Editor
Plumbing Africa

http://www.plumbingafrica.co.za/