Page 16 - Green Builder April 2017 Issue

BATHROOM FIXTURES

Kohler Highline Moen U by Moen
1.0 gpf Toilet Shower System

For years, the 1 gallon- Moen’s new U by Moen smart shower looks gadgety at first glance,
per-flush (gpf) threshold but it actually has a lot of potential to save water. It’s also a reasonably
has been like a Unicorn priced upgrade from a standard temperature-balancing valve.
for toilet technology. Along with the ability to “hold” hot water at the ready for several
New toilets in all U.S. minutes in case the user is delayed from actually entering the
households can use no shower, the intelligent valve system allows the shower to be set to
more than 1.6 gallons a predetermined length. (Imagine the savings in a home with
per flush, and the on- teenagers.) The product also has potential for water savings in
market standard (and rental properties.
mandatory status in The U by Moen shower’s
California) is now the digital valve offers precise,
high-efficiency, 1.28 gpf thermostatic temperature
model. But until control (60 degrees to 120
recently, the legitimate degrees), and enables the
1 gpf unit seemed like a user to connect up to four
barrier too wide to shower devices (such as
cross. showerheads, handshowers or body sprays). The Wi-Fi-connected
Kohler leaps that digital controller features a five-inch, non-touch LCD screen that
chasm with its Highline provides feedback on the shower status through on-screen
1.0 gpf model, which messaging and notifications. As the shower temperature changes,
uses precise, directional water flow for a stronger, more- the screen changes color. When it’s white, the system has met the
powerful flush. Gravity, combined with the design of the user’s preferences.
unit’s tank, bowl and trapway, create a siphon capable of The valve also has an optional battery backup to keep the shower
removing more than two pounds of waste in one flush. from shutting off if the power goes out while someone is in it.
That’s four times more power than the average user needs. A smartphone app enables users to create up to 12 personalized
Highline also features a canister flushing system with a high- presets, including name, greeting, outlets, temperature, shower
flow, 360-degree water inlet for enhanced performance. timer and notifications. Users can control the shower remotely at
The unit is the latest in Kohler’s water efficiency efforts, the push of a button.
which have earned it eight EPA WaterSense Awards. That Installers will also have an easier time with U by Moen. Thanks to
good fortune carries over to builders: Kohler notes that a 30-foot data cable between the valve and controller, the valve
the Highline 1.0 can help a building earn Water Efficiency can be placed wherever is most convenient for the plumber and
points in the LEED Green Building Rating System. homeowner.

Alpha Bidet JX Toilet Seat

Bidets are becoming a popular water-saving tool in American households (as evidenced by the
dozens of styles on display at the NAHB International Builders’ Show in January). We tested The
Alpha Bidet JX add-on bidet seat, and found it easy to install, effective and an efficient water
saver.
The JX’s seat and its associated electronics attach directly where the old toilet seat went. There
are two versions—the EW (elongated) and the RW (round)—which figuratively and literally cover
most toilets on the market. Keep in mind, however, that not all toilets have the same shelf
distance between tank and bowl. (A perfect fit for this unit was an American Standard Champion
4 Max.) Homeowners will need to make sure there is an existing 20-amp GFCI circuit available.
The unit utilizes a tankless water heater to warm things up during use, which can make it feel
like a luxury spa treatment (a key to broader acceptance by squeamish Americans). There are
“auto” and “super” power saving modes, the latter of which reduces water and seat temperatures
to room temp when it’s dark, and heats things up when the lights come on. There’s also a
wireless remote control with a wall mount, for easy starts and stops. And, the JX features an LED
nightlight to help users find their way in the middle of the night without flipping a light switch.

14 GREEN BUILDER Special Awards Issue 2017 www.greenbuildermedia.com

12-32 GB 0417 Hot 50.indd 14 4/12/17 2:17 PM