According to the Water Research Foundation, toilets are the number one source of household water use, accounting for 24% of an average home’s household use.
We know this well here at Sensor Industries, as we have millions of toilet monitoring days under our collective belt. This applies in housing of all types – an apartment, hotel, senior living facility, or student housing.
Unfortunately, 5% of all toilets are wasting water due to slow leaks and stuck open flappers, which could be detected by sensor technology.
Toilets are remarkable in their simplicity – a handle, rod, chain and flapper. Basic elements that also make toilets prone to wear and tear…
This leads to slow leaks, and worse, a stuck open flapper. Both mean silent water waste.
Waste that shows up on your water and sewer bill.
While a single leaking toilet may not seem like a significant problem, because while small leaks might only waste 5-10 gallons per day. But a stuck open flapper can waste hundreds of gallons per day.
Our years of SI-Dash data shows that a single toilet with a monitored sensor saves 17,000 gallons of water annually. This is a significant amount of water that can be saved by detecting and fixing leaks early. The U.S. EPA is encouraging water conservation because 40 states are expected to experience water shortages starting in 2024. Therefore, it is essential to take action now to prevent water waste.
In multi-unit dwellings, toilet leaks can be especially problematic. According to the National Apartment Association (NAA) and the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM), utilities account for 14% of the budget (Source: NAA IREM Income/Expense 1Q). This means that water waste can have a significant impact on the bottom line of multi-unit dwellings.
By addressing these leaks with toilet monitoring, property and asset managers would not just save water, but turn those monthly water and sewer bills into an NOI booster. To address toilet leaks at scale, a proactive solution is essential, and today’s sensor technology detect the differences between a normal flush, a slow leak and a stuck open flapper. These solutions not only save water and help the environment, they have short payback periods, usually 12-20 months depending on the costs of water and sewer.
In conclusion, toilet leaks matter in multi-unit dwellings because they waste water, increase costs, and harm the environment. By taking proactive measures to prevent leaks and educate tenants, you can save water, reduce costs, and help the environment. Remember, every drop counts!