FEATURES
PHYS . ORG
Anyone and everyone can play a role in conserving water .
Gradient is of utmost importance because liquids flow faster than solids and if the incorrect gradient is used the flow of water will be problematic . The gradient , bathroom layout , choice of equipment for the layout and interpretation and teamwork around architectural drawings , are crucial in ensuring sustainable affordability for clients . “ If the architect ’ s plans are not detailed enough and plumbers only use their judgement when setting out the plumbing system and sanitary wear , it can result in problems ,” Spies says .
Piping and fittings play a critical role in ensuring what is hidden behind walls and underground and must be installed correctly and according to the pre-determined standards .
INSTALLING SMART PLUMBING
Recent water shortages call for serious attention by municipalities for developers , building owners and residents to save water . Measures have been issued on various platforms to encourage citizens to use water wisely .
In Cape Town , the City ’ s water by-laws state that all showers installed should have a flow rate of no more than 10l a minute and hand basins no more than 6l a minute . “ Efficient plumbing fittings ensure that our scarce water resources are not wasted and that water costs are kept as low as possible for the homeowner ,” says Councillor Xanthea Limberg , Mayoral Committee member for Informal Settlements , Water and Waste Services and Energy .
The City ’ s Water and Sanitation Management Department installs water management devices ( WMD ) in newly built subsidised houses across the metro to assist
residents in managing their water consumption within acceptable levels .
“ Households have daily access to 350l of water and the opportunity to manage future water consumption . The WMD is programmed to provide daily allocations of water which commence at 04:00 . Any unused water from the daily allowance is carried over to accumulate . The WMD will shut off when the daily allocation is exhausted and the water will be reduced to a trickle ,” says Limberg .
Ensure that dual-flush toilets or multi-flush toilets are installed with a cistern capacity of no more than 6l . An existing toilet can also be fitted with a multi-flush . “ Adding an empty bottle to the cistern will also reduce the volume of water in the cistern , which will help to save water ,” he says .
Despite installing water saving devices , there are practical things that the homeowner can do , such as setting the temperature of the geyser at about 55 ° C . “ The lower temperature ensures that you don ’ t dilute the hot water with more cold water to achieve your desired temperature , therefore reducing your water consumption and electricity bill ,” says Spies . Ensure that low flow shower heads and taps are installed ; a cost effective option is to install flow restrictors in the taps and shower heads .
According to Anca Szalavicz , architect and urban designer , plumbing must be designed to include easily accessible ducts for easy construction , cost effectiveness and future maintenance . “ The size of the ducts must be adequate to cater for the piping it needs to accommodate . All these considerations can affect the design , particularly in the affordable housing market , where each square inch counts ,” she says .
24
SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2017
AFFORDABLE
SA HOUSING