Living in Central Oregon means enjoying stunning landscapes, fresh air, and a close-knit community. But it also means being conscious of our environmental impact—especially when it comes to water use. One of the most effective ways to reduce your footprint is by upgrading your home’s plumbing for eco-friendly living.
According to the EPA WaterSense Program, the average household wastes nearly 10,000 gallons of water each year due to leaks and inefficient fixtures. That’s not only a hit to the environment but also to your wallet. By making a few strategic plumbing upgrades, you can significantly cut water waste, lower energy bills, and create a greener home.
At Einstein Pros, we’ve seen firsthand how eco-friendly plumbing solutions can transform homes in Bend, Redmond, Sisters, and the surrounding Central Oregon area. Below, we’ll cover the top upgrades worth considering.
1. Install WaterSense-Certified Fixtures
WaterSense is an EPA program that certifies products meeting high standards for water efficiency and performance. These fixtures use at least 20% less water than standard models without sacrificing performance.
Examples include:
- Low-flow toilets that use 1.28 gallons per flush instead of 3.5 or more.
- High-efficiency showerheads delivering strong pressure with less than 2.0 gallons per minute.
- Faucet aerators that reduce flow rate without affecting water temperature control.
By switching to WaterSense fixtures, the EPA estimates the average family can save 13,000 gallons of water and $130 annually.
For local homeowners, Einstein Pros’ bathroom plumbing services can help ensure these upgrades are installed correctly for maximum savings.
2. Upgrade to a Tankless Water Heater
Traditional water heaters constantly heat a large tank of water, wasting energy when hot water isn’t in use. A tankless (on-demand) water heater heats water only when needed, reducing standby energy loss and lowering utility bills.
Benefits include:
- Endless hot water supply.
- Up to 34% more energy-efficient for homes using less than 41 gallons per day (according to the U.S. Department of Energy).
- Longer lifespan compared to traditional units.
If you’re considering this upgrade, check out our water heater installation services to learn more about your options.
3. Fix Hidden Leaks Immediately
A dripping faucet might not seem like a big deal, but the EPA Fix a Leak Week campaign reveals that household leaks can waste more than 1 trillion gallons of water nationwide each year.
Common sources of hidden leaks:
- Toilet flappers that no longer seal properly.
- Irrigation systems with cracked lines.
- Pinhole leaks in copper or PEX water lines.
At Einstein Pros, we use leak detection technology to find problems early—before they cause water damage or waste resources.
4. Install a Greywater Recycling System
Greywater is gently used water from sinks, showers, and laundry that can be safely reused for irrigation and toilet flushing. While these systems require professional installation and compliance with local codes, they can dramatically reduce your household’s freshwater demand.
Benefits:
- Lower water bills.
- Reduced strain on municipal water systems.
- More sustainable landscaping during dry Central Oregon summers.
The EPA Water Reuse Resource offers guidance on safe and efficient greywater systems.
5. Opt for PEX Piping Over Copper
When replacing or upgrading plumbing, many homeowners now choose PEX piping (cross-linked polyethylene) for its efficiency and longevity. Unlike copper, PEX is less prone to corrosion, easier to install, and often results in fewer joints—reducing potential leak points.
Fewer leaks mean less water wasted over the life of your plumbing system. Plus, installation is often faster, reducing labor costs.
Our pipe repair and replacement services can help you make the switch efficiently.
6. Install a Smart Irrigation Controller
Outdoor water use can account for 30% of total household water consumption, according to the EPA WaterSense Outdoors program. Smart irrigation systems monitor weather and soil moisture to water only when needed, cutting waste dramatically.
Benefits include:
- Reduced water bills.
- Healthier landscaping.
- Compliance with seasonal watering restrictions.
Pairing efficient outdoor plumbing with drought-resistant landscaping can make your home truly water-wise.
7. Choose ENERGY STAR Appliances
While not strictly “plumbing,” ENERGY STAR dishwashers and clothes washers connect directly to your water system and make a big difference in consumption. The EPA ENERGY STAR Program estimates that certified dishwashers can save over 3,800 gallons of water per year compared to older models.
Making the Switch to Eco-Friendly Plumbing
Eco-friendly plumbing upgrades are an investment that pays off in multiple ways:
- Lower monthly water and energy bills.
- Increased property value.
- A more sustainable home for future generations.
If you’re ready to make your Central Oregon home greener, contact Einstein Pros. Our licensed plumbers specialize in installing WaterSense fixtures, upgrading water heaters, detecting leaks, and setting up advanced water-saving systems—all with the environment in mind.
Final Word
Eco-friendly plumbing is not a passing trend—it’s a smart, sustainable choice for homeowners in Bend, Redmond, and beyond. With guidance from the EPA Water Efficiency Program and expert installation from Einstein Pros, you can conserve water, cut costs, and do your part for the planet.