Water-smart Upgrades
Water-smart Upgrades | Plumbing Fixture Replacements | Plumbing | Tellico Plains
Looking to cut utility costs and conserve Tellico Plains’ precious mountain water? HEP’s water-smart upgrades make it easy. Our licensed plumbers replace outdated faucets, showerheads, and toilets with EPA-certified models that slash water use without sacrificing performance. From the moment we arrive, you’ll see why neighbors trust us for prompt service, tidy workmanship, and transparent pricing—all backed by the HEP Happiness Guarantee.
With expertly handled plumbing fixture replacements, you’ll enjoy lower bills, greater home value, and the peace of mind that you’re doing your part for the environment. Schedule a visit today and watch your bathroom or kitchen transform into a modern, eco-friendly space in just one hassle-free appointment.
FAQs
What exactly are “water-smart” plumbing fixture upgrades?
Water-smart upgrades involve replacing traditional toilets, faucets, showerheads, and other fixtures with models engineered to use substantially less water without sacrificing performance. Examples include EPA WaterSense-labeled toilets that flush with 1.28 gallons or less, aerated faucets restricted to 1.5 GPM, and thermostatic shower valves that pause flow while you soap up. By combining precision engineering with flow-control technology, these fixtures reduce daily water use by 20–60 %, lower utility bills, and lessen demand on Tellico Plains’ municipal water supply.
How much water and money can I realistically save by upgrading my fixtures?
Savings vary by household size and fixture age, but most Tellico Plains homeowners see: • Toilets: Replacing a 3.5-gallon toilet with a 1.28-gallon WaterSense model saves about 13,000 gallons per toilet per year—roughly $110 in combined water and sewer costs. • Showerheads: Swapping a 2.5 GPM head for a 1.8 GPM version cuts around 2,700 gallons annually for a family of four, equating to $25–$40 in utility savings. • Faucets: Upgrading two bath faucets from 2.2 GPM to 1.2 GPM saves 700–1,200 gallons a year, or $8–$15. In total, a full-house retrofit can reduce water bills 15–30 %, paying for itself in one to three years while shrinking your environmental footprint.
Which types of water-efficient fixtures do you install and service?
Our licensed plumbers supply and install a complete line of WaterSense-certified products, including: • High-efficiency single- and dual-flush toilets • Ultra-low-flow urinals for commercial spaces • 1.5 GPM or lower aerated bathroom and kitchen faucets • 1.8 GPM multi-setting showerheads • Pressure-compensating outdoor hose bibs • Smart leak-detecting shut-off valves. We work with trusted brands like Kohler, Moen, Delta, Toto, and Niagara to ensure long-term reliability, easy access to parts, and manufacturer warranties.
Will low-flow fixtures reduce my water pressure or shower experience?
Modern WaterSense fixtures are designed to feel just as powerful as older models. They rely on aerators, pressure compensation, and optimized spray patterns rather than simply restricting flow. For example, a 1.8 GPM showerhead introduces air into the water stream so it feels robust, and pressure-assisted toilets use a small tank-within-a-tank to generate a vigorous flush. Most homeowners can’t tell the difference—aside from the lower utility bill.
Are rebates or tax incentives available in Tellico Plains for water-smart upgrades?
Yes. As of 2024, the Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation (TDEC) offers residential rebates of up to $100 for qualifying WaterSense toilets and $10–$15 for WaterSense faucets and showerheads. Fort Loudoun Electric Cooperative also provides a $50 bill credit when you install a high-efficiency electric water heater in conjunction with low-flow fixtures. We keep track of changing incentives and will help you complete the paperwork so you receive every possible rebate or tax credit.
What is the installation process and how long will my water be shut off?
Most single-fixture replacements (toilet, faucet, or showerhead) take 60–90 minutes. We begin by shutting off the supply valve to the specific fixture, so the rest of your home’s plumbing remains active. For whole-house retrofits, we work room by room to minimize downtime; total water shut-off rarely exceeds 20–30 minutes at any stage. After installation, we test for leaks, adjust flow settings, haul away your old fixtures for responsible recycling, and provide you with warranty documentation. Your home is left clean, functional, and noticeably more efficient.