Low-flow faucets are based upon the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (EPAct 1992) and use aerators to restrict the flow of water to 2.2 gallons of water per minute gpm.  Relative to earlier fixture models (i.e. conventional fixtures), these were considered to be “low-flow” and the name stuck; today, the EPAct low-flow requirements are baseline plumbing code requirements.  In addition to EPAct requirements, the Uniform Plumbing Code and International Plumbing Code have a maximum of 0.5 gpm for public lavatory faucets.

O+M Tips

• Use cleaning chemicals and solutions that are Green Seal certified
• Ensure the flow-restrictor is cleaned to prevent sediment buildup to allow for maximum water flow

End of Life Tips

• If in good condition, faucets can be donated to organizations like Habitat for Humanity that will reuse them.

For alignment with LEED Standards

• Water Use Reduction: Employ strategies that in aggregate use at least 20% less water than the water use baseline. Water saving faucets with a flow rate of less than 2.2 gallons per minute GPM at 60 psi can contribute to the water use reduction.
  • BD+C and ID+C WE: Indoor Water Use Reduction