| Table of Content |
| 1. What is an ADU? |
2. Why Water Conservation Matters for ADUs in California |
2.1 Benefits of Water Conservation in ADUs |
| 3. Top Water Conservation Techniques for ADUs in California |
| 3.1 Low-Flow Plumbing Fixtures |
| 3.2 Rainwater Harvesting Systems |
| 3.3 Smart Irrigation Systems |
| 3. 4 Greywater Recycling |
| 3. 5 Native Landscaping |
| 4. FAQ |
What is an ADU?
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary suites, self-contained residential unit located on the same property as a primary home. Often called granny flats, backyard cottages, or in-law suites, ADUs can be attached to the main house, stand alone, or be converted from spaces like garages or basements. These units include their own kitchen, bathroom, and living area. ADUs offer flexible living arrangements for family members or rental income. In the face of California’s housing shortage, they provide a practical and sustainable solution. ADUs help increase housing supply without significantly changing neighborhood character.
Why Water Conservation Matters for ADUs in California
California is no stranger to droughts and water shortages, making water conservation a critical aspect of responsible homebuilding. As ADUs become more popular across the state, incorporating water-saving technologies can not only lower utility bills but also contribute to the state’s larger sustainability goals.
Benefits of Water Conservation in ADUs:
✅ Reduced Water Bills: Save money by lowering your water usage.
✅ Eco-Friendly Living: Minimize your environmental footprint and contribute to sustainability.
✅ Increased Property Value: Green features, like water-saving systems, are highly valued by eco-conscious buyers.
✅ Regulatory Compliance: California’s Title 24 energy standards require water-saving features in all new construction, including ADUs.
Top Water Conservation Techniques for ADUs in California
Incorporating water-efficient solutions into your ADU design can drastically reduce consumption and waste. Here are some top water-saving techniques you can use:
1. Low-Flow Plumbing Fixtures
Installing low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets is one of the easiest and most effective ways to conserve water in your ADU. These fixtures can reduce water usage by as much as 50%, significantly cutting down on monthly water bills.
Low-Flow Toilets: Use less than 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf), compared to traditional toilets that use 3-5 gallons per flush.
Low-Flow Showerheads: Use less than 2.0 gallons per minute (gpm), compared to older models that can use 3-5 gpm.
2. Rainwater Harvesting Systems
Rainwater harvesting is an excellent way to collect and store water for non-potable uses, like irrigation or flushing toilets. By setting up a system to capture rainwater from your roof, you can save thousands of gallons of water annually and help reduce your reliance on municipal water supplies.
Rain Barrels: Small, cost-effective solution for residential properties.
Integrated Systems: More complex setups with filtration systems that can be used for irrigation or gray water.
3. Smart Irrigation Systems
If your ADU includes landscaping or a garden, a smart irrigation system can reduce water waste by adjusting watering schedules based on weather conditions. These systems automatically sense rainfall and soil moisture, ensuring that plants receive the right amount of water without overwatering.
Drip Irrigation: Efficiently delivers water directly to plant roots, minimizing evaporation.
Smart Controllers: Can be programmed to water only when necessary, reducing water waste.
4. Greywater Recycling
Greywater recycling allows you to reuse water from your sinks, showers, and laundry (but not toilets) for irrigation. By diverting greywater to a garden or lawn, you can significantly reduce water consumption while nourishing your plants.
Certified Greywater Systems: Ensure compliance with local regulations and plumbing codes.
Cost-Effective: Installation can be affordable, and the benefits are long-lasting.
5. Native Landscaping
Choose native and drought-tolerant plants for landscaping around your ADU. These plants are adapted to local climates and require less water, fertilizer, and maintenance, making them an excellent choice for water-conscious homeowners.
California Native Plants: Plants like California poppies, lavender, and succulents thrive in California’s climate and need less water.
Xeriscaping: A landscaping method designed to reduce the need for irrigation.
