Water-saving Models
Water-saving Models | Plumbing Fixture Replacements | Plumbing | Monterey
In the heart of Monterey—where every drop counts—HEP introduces a curated line of water-saving models that turn everyday plumbing into an eco-smart experience. Imagine low-flow toilets that swirl clean with a fraction of the water, aerated faucets that feel luxurious yet sip instead of guzzle, and showerheads that deliver spa-like pressure while trimming gallons off your monthly use. Thoughtfully engineered and beautifully styled, these upgrades slash utility bills and help protect the bay we all treasure.
Our team handles everything from expert guidance to seamless installation of plumbing fixture replacements, ensuring your project is quick, clean, and tailored to local rebate programs. Whether you’re retrofitting a vintage Pacific Grove bungalow or modernizing a Cannery Row café, HEP’s certified technicians bring the parts, the know-how, and the genuine Monterey pride that turns conservation into comfort. Let’s make your next flush, flow, and rinse part of the solution.
FAQs
What counts as a “water-saving” plumbing fixture in Monterey?
Under California’s CALGreen code and the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District (MPWMD) rules, a fixture is considered water-saving if it meets or beats the following thresholds: 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf) for toilets, 0.5–1.0 gpf for urinals, 1.2 gallons per minute (gpm) for residential bathroom faucets, 1.8 gpm for kitchen faucets, and 1.8 gpm for showerheads. Fixtures carrying the WaterSense, High-Efficiency Toilet (HET), or EPA Watersense Showerhead label automatically qualify.
How much water and money can I save by switching to high-efficiency fixtures?
A typical pre-1994 toilet uses 3.5–5.0 gpf; replacing it with a 1.28 gpf HET can cut toilet water use by about 60 %, saving roughly 13,000 gallons per toilet each year. A standard 2.5 gpm showerhead swapped for a 1.8 gpm model saves about 2,300 gallons annually for a family of four. At Monterey’s average tiered water rate of ±$0.02 per gallon (including surcharges), those changes can lower a household water bill by $120–$200 per year, while also reducing sewer charges that are tied to water consumption.
Are there local codes that require water-efficient fixtures when I remodel or sell my property?
Yes. The CALGreen building code mandates high-efficiency fixtures in all new construction and most remodels throughout California. Additionally, MPWMD Rule 144 requires that any property changing ownership, undergoing major renovation, or applying for a water permit upgrade must retrofit all fixtures to current high-efficiency standards before final inspection. Our team verifies compliance and provides the documentation the City of Monterey and MPWMD inspectors will request.
Can I get rebates or credits for installing water-saving fixtures?
The MPWMD currently offers rebates of $100 for each qualifying HET, $50 for WaterSense showerheads installed in multi-family properties, and up to $25 for aerators and kitchen faucet retrofits (amounts may change year to year). Additional incentives may be available from California American Water during drought stages. We handle the paperwork, submit itemized invoices, and provide the before-and-after photos required so you receive any rebate checks as quickly as possible.
Will a low-flow showerhead or faucet reduce my water pressure?
Modern WaterSense-certified fixtures use advanced aerators and pressure-compensating technology to maintain a strong spray while limiting flow. Most users cannot tell the difference once the fixture is installed and correctly balanced. If your home has unusually low incoming pressure, we can test the supply line, clean mineral buildup, or recommend a pressure-boosting valve to ensure optimal performance.
What is the process and timeline for replacing my fixtures?
1) On-site survey (30–45 minutes) to record existing flow rates, check shut-off valves, and photograph fixtures for rebate eligibility. 2) Product selection and quote (same day). 3) Scheduling: Most single-family homes can be completed in one visit, typically 2–4 hours per bathroom. 4) Installation: We remove and recycle old fixtures, install new ones, and test for leaks and proper flow. 5) Compliance sign-off: We complete the MPWMD Retrofit Verification form and, if required, coordinate City of Monterey inspection. The whole process from first call to final sign-off usually takes 3–7 business days.