Author: ranjuse
BREEAM is an assessment process started in 1990 covering both offices and dwellings. Credits are awarded for different areas in terms of performance, and the credits are totalled to give an overall score. This score will give the building a rating: Pass, Good, Very Good, Excellent or Outstanding.
This process was created by the Building Research Establishment to rate green buildings in the UK. The idea is to find solutions to minimise the environmental impact of construction and improve sustainability, as well as reducing running costs and improving working and living environments.
Water is a key element to sustainability, it is important that water saving products are used in the home to regulate the amount of water used per household. The BREEAM assessment process awards credits if the following are in place:
- Water Efficient Appliances
- Water Metering
- Leak Detection Systems
- Water Butts
Low Flush WCs –
Low flush toilets are an example of building products that follow Part G building regulations and can be awarded BREEAM credits. Toilets use 30% of the total water used in a household, and a low flush toilet can reduce the amount used by more than half. Dual flush systems are widely recommended for new dwellings as you can choose the amount of water needed to flush the bowl.
Aerated Taps and Showerheads –
The majority of wasted water in the home is due to taps and shower heads. An aerated tap or showerhead bubbles air in with the water to reduce the amount used without reducing the pressure.
Flow Reduced Taps and Showerheads –
Similar to aerated taps and showerheads, flow reduced taps can be installed to reduce the amount of water used in the home. Flow reduced taps and showerheads force the water through smaller holes, which saves water by producing a finer, firmer spray.
Water Metering –
A water meter can be installed to measure the amount of water used. There are various types of water meter available based on the type of user, required flow rates and accuracy requirements. Water metering is awarded BREEAM credits as it acts as an incentive to reduce water consumption.
Leak Detection Systems –
Water leak detection systems also reduce water consumption; therefore will be awarded BREEAM credits. Most leak detection systems available have been designed to comply with the BREEAM assessment criteria. Such systems are designed to detect water leaks within the building and between the building and the edge of the property by monitoring the quantity of water flowing through the pipes. A leak detection system can be set to work on a timer, as water consumption varies dependant on the building being occupied at different times. If a leak is detected it is possible to set the system to shut off the water supply completely or just raise an alarm.
Water Butts –
Water butts, also known as rainwater tanks, are used to collect rainwater runoff from drains and rooftops. The stored water can be reused for example: watering gardens, flushing toilets, or washing cars which will reduce water consumption for the household.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/business-articles/breeam-credits-for-water-saving-products-4803737.html
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