Prioritizing fixtures with a high WaterSense rating when implementing water reduction strategies is essential because these fixtures are specifically designed to use less water while maintaining performance. WaterSense is a program sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that identifies products meeting rigorous standards for water efficiency and performance.
Fixtures such as toilets, faucets, and showerheads with this rating significantly reduce water consumption compared to traditional models. By focusing on these fixtures, facilities can achieve substantial water savings, which aligns well with LEED certification goals, particularly in the Operations and Maintenance context, where ongoing efficiency and resource management are critical.
In contrast, while kitchen appliances, commercial equipment, and industrial irrigation systems each contribute to water use, they may not all feature the same efficiency standards or measurement metrics as those highlighted by the WaterSense program. Prioritizing high WaterSense-rated fixtures ensures that the strategies implemented are grounded in verified efficiency, yielding immediate and tangible reductions in water usage.