CHOOSING BETWEEN ENERGY EFFICIENCY OR WATER SAVINGS FOR GREEN BUILDING POINTS?
I’m right there with you on the “eco” toilets—had one in a rental once and honestly, it was more of a conversation piece than a convenience. I do think some of the newer dual-flush models are getting better, though. For faucets, we went with a Grohe low-flow and it actually feels pretty normal, not like you’re washing your hands with a trickle. Still, if I had to pick one upgrade, I’d stick with insulation and windows. Comfort wins every time for me.
CHOOSING BETWEEN ENERGY EFFICIENCY OR WATER SAVINGS FOR GREEN BUILDING POINTS?
I hear you on the comfort factor. I once lived in a place with those early “eco” showerheads—felt like trying to rinse off under a leaky garden hose. But I’ve also seen folks go all-in on water savings and end up with mold from under-ventilated bathrooms, so it’s a balancing act. Personally, I lean energy upgrades first too. Insulation and good windows just make life better day-to-day, and your bills notice the difference. Water stuff’s important, but I’m not giving up a decent shower.
CHOOSING BETWEEN ENERGY EFFICIENCY OR WATER SAVINGS FOR GREEN BUILDING POINTS?
I totally get the showerhead struggle—been there, done that, and honestly, I still have flashbacks to those “eco” showers that barely got the shampoo out. I’ve been obsessing over this myself since starting my build. Energy stuff feels like it pays off more in the long run... lower bills, less drafty winters, and you don’t have to sacrifice comfort. Water-saving is cool, but if it means a sad shower or weird bathroom smells? Hard pass. Maybe there’s a sweet spot, but for now I’m team insulation and windows.
CHOOSING BETWEEN ENERGY EFFICIENCY OR WATER SAVINGS FOR GREEN BUILDING POINTS?
You’re not alone with the “eco” shower trauma—honestly, I still remember one rental where the water pressure was so bad, it took twice as long to get clean. Not exactly saving water there. I lean toward energy efficiency too, especially when you look at the numbers. Better insulation and windows just keep paying off, month after month, and you don’t have to compromise on comfort. Plus, a well-insulated house feels way more solid.
That said, I do think there’s room for some targeted water savings—like dual flush toilets or efficient dishwashers—where you don’t really notice the difference. But yeah, if it’s a choice between a warm, draft-free house or a miserable shower, I know which one I’m picking. Feels like you’re making the practical call.
CHOOSING BETWEEN ENERGY EFFICIENCY OR WATER SAVINGS FOR GREEN BUILDING POINTS?
I get where you’re coming from—there’s nothing worse than a “green” shower that leaves you shivering and still soapy. I’ve been through a few of those myself, and it’s always made me question if the water savings are worth the daily frustration. Honestly, when I started planning my own build, I ran the numbers on both sides. Energy efficiency just gives you more bang for your buck, especially long-term. Insulation, air sealing, and good windows aren’t just about lower bills—they make the whole house feel better to live in. You notice it every day, not just when you get the utility bill.
That said, I wouldn’t write off water savings entirely. There are some upgrades that don’t mess with comfort at all—like you mentioned, dual flush toilets or even rainwater catchment for irrigation. Those are set-and-forget solutions that don’t impact your daily routine. But when it comes to showers and faucets, I’d rather have something that works well than something that technically saves water but ends up wasting time (and probably more water in the end).
One thing I’ve found is that a lot of “eco” fixtures are just poorly designed or cheap. If you spend a bit more on quality low-flow fixtures, sometimes you can get decent pressure without the misery. Still, if I had to pick one area to focus on for points, energy efficiency wins out. The comfort factor is huge, and it’s easier to justify the upfront cost when you see the payback over time.
It’s funny—people always talk about green building like it’s all or nothing, but I think there’s a sweet spot where you can get most of the benefits without sacrificing livability. Pick your battles, invest where it counts, and don’t let anyone guilt you into a freezing shower just for a few extra points.