9 tips for making more conscious choices in the bathroom
When planning or renovating a bathroom, there are many choices that can affect the use of water, energy and materials – as well as how long products can be used. Here are nine tips covering everything from water- and energy-efficient products to planning, maintenance, spare parts and product environmental data.
1. Consider what really needs to be replaced
Not everything needs to be replaced during a renovation. Start by reviewing which products still work and which ones need replacing. For products that can be maintained or repaired, replacing a component or spare part may make it possible to continue using the rest of the product.
2. Choose products that use water and energy efficiently
Both water and energy are used every day in the bathroom. A product’s functions and water flow can therefore affect consumption.
ENERGY-RATED MIXERS
Gustavsberg offers mixers with energy classes A and B. Energy labelling makes it possible to compare the water and energy performance of mixers according to established test methods.
In a field study conducted by RISE, hot water use decreased by 28% when standard mixers were replaced with more energy-efficient mixers. The result applies to the products, households and conditions included in the study and is not a guarantee of an equivalent reduction in every household.
TOILETS WITH LOW FLUSH VOLUMES
The amount of water a toilet uses depends, among other things, on its flush volume. Gustavsberg’s range includes dual-flush toilets that allow the user to select the flush volume according to need.
3. Think about which functions you need
Find out what options are available and consider which functions you need. For example, reducing draughts through the shower area can make it possible to lower the water temperature while maintaining the same perceived temperature.
Choose a shower enclosure that seals well against the floor and avoid placing an exhaust ventilation outlet directly in the shower area.
4. Consider the product’s service life
Quality, maintenance and the possibility of repair are important factors in how long a product can be used.
Check whether spare parts are available and whether components can be replaced if something breaks. It is also important that the supplier provides spare parts over time, making it possible to extend the use of the products.
5. Choose a design you will enjoy for years to come
Bathrooms are usually renovated for many years of use. Choosing materials, colours and products that you will enjoy over time can reduce the need to replace functioning furnishings for aesthetic reasons. Choose products you will enjoy looking at year after year.
6. Plan your bathroom carefully
Is underfloor heating suitable for your bathroom? Is it possible to add heat recovery from wastewater or ventilation? Could you design the bathroom differently to shorten hot-water pipe runs? A well-planned bathroom can be used for longer before it needs renovating. In most cases, it is best to consult a professional.
7. Control use according to need
Lighting and heating do not always need to be on when the bathroom is not in use.
Timers, sensors and other demand-controlled solutions can make it possible to adapt lighting and temperature according to when the bathroom is used.
8. Check the product’s environmental data
Want to know more about a product’s environmental impact? Look for an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD). It provides information about the product’s environmental impact during different stages of its life cycle and can be a useful source of information when comparing and choosing products.
9. Check the product documentation
When choosing products, you can also look at the available documentation on aspects such as water and energy performance, environmental data, materials, maintenance and repairability. Gustavsberg works with a range of certifications, product assessment systems and standards. We also offer products that can contribute to relevant criteria in systems and frameworks such as Miljöbyggnad, BREEAM, LEED and the EU Taxonomy. Our operations are certified according to ISO standards for environmental management, quality management, energy management and occupational health and safety.
Calculate water and energy use with our Energy Calculator
With Gustavsberg’s energy calculator, you can estimate how water and energy use, energy costs and CO₂ emissions may change when replacing a mixer.
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