Courtesy of Jack Hall Plumbing & Heating
By Christine Graf
As water conservation becomes an increasingly critical concern across the country, many homeowners are discovering new ways to save on their water bills while helping the environment. From aerators that reduce faucet flow to high-efficiency toilets that use a fraction of the water, these innovations are quietly making waves in areas where every drop counts. Though such water-saving fixtures may not yet be household staples in regions like ours, experts believe it’s only a matter of time before they catch on.
“In this area, there’s still a sense that water is limitless,” said Ty Hall, co-founder and president of Jack Hall Plumbing and Heating in Glens Falls. “But that attitude might shift as people become more aware of the benefits—both environmentally and financially—of conserving water.”
With 40 years of experience, Jack Hall Plumbing and Heating is no stranger to helping homeowners save money through energy-efficient solutions. The company, founded by Hall and his father, Jack, offers much more than plumbing services. From heating and air conditioning to cutting-edge attic insulation, they’ve built a reputation for helping customers lower utility bills. Now, with water-saving fixtures gaining popularity, they’re ready to offer guidance on how small changes can lead to big savings.
For example, installing a simple faucet aerator can significantly reduce water usage, lowering flow from 2.2 gallons per minute to just 1.5—without compromising water pressure.
“Aerators are a quick, inexpensive fix,” said Hall. “You don’t need to replace your whole faucet. You just swap out the aerator, and you’ll see savings right away. Plus, you’ll still get a decent stream of water, so it doesn’t feel like a downgrade.”
For a more significant impact, high-efficiency toilets are another option worth considering. Older toilets, particularly those manufactured before 1994, can use 3.5 gallons or more per flush, which adds up quickly in a busy household. Today’s high-efficiency models, by contrast, are designed to use as little as 1.28 gallons per flush, without compromising flushing power.
“Modern water-saving toilets are engineered to perform better than the older, water-hogging models,” Hall explained. “The good ones will actually flush a lot better than the cheaper options, and you’ll save thousands of gallons of water over time.”
Low-flow shower heads are another increasingly popular option for water-conscious consumers. Traditional shower heads typically use around 2.5 gallons per minute, but newer low-flow models can reduce that by up to 40%, saving as much as 1 gallon per minute. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that switching to low-flow shower heads can save the average household around 2,900 gallons of water per year. Beyond water savings, using less hot water also cuts down on energy costs, making these upgrades a win-win for homeowners. In some cases, homeowners may save up to $100 a year on water bills alone, depending on their usage patterns.
“The best part is that modern low-flow shower heads are designed to maintain proper water pressure, so you’re not sacrificing comfort or performance,” Hall said. “You’ll still get a satisfying shower, but with far less water going down the drain.”
Beyond the bathroom, there are also outdoor solutions for those looking to save water. For homeowners who frequently water their lawns, Hall notes that some towns allow the installation of separate water meters for sprinkler systems. Since this water doesn’t enter the sanitary sewer system, it’s billed at a lower rate, potentially saving homeowners significant money during the summer months when irrigation is at its peak. This option, while more commonly used in commercial settings, could be a smart move for homeowners with large lawns or elaborate sprinkler systems.
“While it’s not something we get calls for every day, we do set up separate water meters occasionally, especially for commercial properties where water use is high,” said Hall. “It’s something to consider if you’re using a lot of water to keep your lawn green during dry spells.”
Low-flow sprinkler heads are another outdoor water-saving solution. These pressure-regulated sprinklers optimize water usage, reducing waste while delivering water more efficiently to plants. Coupled with regular maintenance and checking for leaks, these systems can help homeowners dramatically reduce their water usage.
Hall also stressed the importance of addressing leaks, as small drips can lead to large amounts of wasted water over time. “A leaky toilet, for example, can waste around 200 gallons of water a day—up to 6,000 gallons a month—without you even realizing it,” he said. “And a dripping faucet, while it may seem minor, can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year. Fixing those leaks can make a big difference in both your water consumption and your bills.”
For homeowners looking to save money and make their homes more water-efficient, Jack Hall Plumbing and Heating provides expert advice and services that can make an immediate impact. With simple, cost-effective solutions like aerators and more extensive upgrades like high-efficiency toilets and low-flow shower heads, there are plenty of ways to conserve water and reduce utility costs—without sacrificing comfort or convenience.