EPA Ban on Water Features

WaterSense labeled new homes will combine with other water efficient fixtures and practices to reduce water usage by approximately 20 percent. Homes earning the WaterSense label must meet criteria for indoor water use, outdoor water use, and homeowner education. Third party inspectors will certify that homes meet all the required criteria.

The Environmental Protection Agency is promoting and enhancing the market for water efficient products through the WaterSense program. However, a proposed change in the EPA Water Sense New Homes Specification 4.1.4. for water-efficient new single-family homes will have a major impact on installation contractors.

The specification will create standards that new homes must meet to be certified and labeled as WaterSense homes.

The new draft for Ornamental Water Features reads as follows: This specification establishes that builders shall not install or facilitate the installation of ornamental water features. Ornamental water features are defined as fountains, ponds, waterfalls, man-made streams and other decorative water related constructions provided solely for aesthetic or beautification purposes. Because these water features serve no functional or practical purpose their water use is not considered efficient.

EPA is inviting public comment on the draft specification. The comment period will end July 21, 2008. Please send any comments or suggestions to:
watersense-newhomes@erg.com.

Mr. John Flowers, committee head of the EPA Water Sense New Homes Program.
email: flowers.john@epa.gov, office: (202) 564-0624,
IPPCA Headquarters: 866-4U IPPCA (866-484-7722).

For more information or to obtain a copy of the draft specification for water efficient single-family new homes, go to: www.epa.gov/watersense/specs/homes.htm

Source: epa.gov, ippca.com