WaterSense Labeled Homes: The Basics

Green building has grown from a niche market to a savvy business strategy. WaterSense labeled homes meet consumers’ demand for a whole-house solution to help them save water, energy, and money while maintaining a high level of performance. Some of the benefits of WaterSense labeled homes include:

• Faster Hot Water—Efficient plumbing distribution systems get hot water to the tap faster, so you waste less time, water, and energy.   ► Learn more about Hot Water Distribution Product and System Design Solutions.

• Savings that Perform—WaterSense labeled fixtures are independently certified to use less water and perform as well or better than standard models.

• Peace of Mind—Trained professionals conduct independent inspections to ensure that WaterSense labeled homes meet EPA’s criteria, so you can be sure the homes perform well and save water.

• Outdoor Ease—High-performing landscapes are designed to be low-maintenance and water-efficient without sacrificing curb appeal. WaterSense labeled irrigation controllers help homeowners water smarter.  ► Learn more about Landscape Design and Irrigation Solutions.

What's in a WaterSense Labeled Home?

All WaterSense labeled homes are inspected and certified to meet EPA’s indoor and outdoor water efficiency criteria. Inspectors verify:

* If included with the home at time of purchase

Ready to Get Started?

Adding the WaterSense label—an independent certification for both savings and performance—helps assure home buyers in a competitive market where third-party certifications matter and consumers are looking for a choice in efficient homes. You can open the door to savings with WaterSense labeled homes. Here’s how:

1. Partner with WaterSense: Partnership is free and required for any builder who wants to earn the WaterSense label. Join with WaterSense.

2. Collaborate with Your Team: Work with your trades, vendors, and raters or inspectors to make sure your home will meet the WaterSense specification. WaterSense provides more resources to help, such as our in-depth Builder Resource Manual(75 pp, 1.58 MB, About PDF).

3. Find Your Provider: Locate a WaterSense licensed certification provider to coordinate your WaterSense inspection. Discuss the WaterSense label with your existing energy raters and providers—they might already be able to provide this additional service. You can also contact one of the approved WaterSense licensed certification providers using the Partners Directory search tool.

4. Finish Building and Get Inspected: Your licensed certification provider will send a trained inspector to certify your home to earn the WaterSense label using  our checklist and other technical resources for inspection and verification.

Learn more about upcoming revisions to the WaterSense labeled homes specification and what changes EPA is considering.