Challenged with the task of optimizing and minimizing property energy use, the Towers at City College of New York sought out assistance from Better Efficiency Solutions & Technology (BEST).  BEST is a leader in the energy efficiency realm. 

Through BEST’s Insight Energy Report and Smart Energy Strategies, CCNY identified solutions to increase cash flow at their property while reducing water and energy consumption. One of the ways identified was replacing old and inefficient plumbing fixtures with ultra-high efficiency ones.

Products

Under the recommendation of BEST, the Towers at CCNY replaced outdated 2.89 GPF toilets with Niagara dual flush 0.5/0.95 GPF toilets. Niagara products, utilizing patented vacuum-assist Stealth Technology, save up to 77 percent more water than industry standard toilets, while being backed by a 10-year warranty. They are also WaterSense certified and boast the lowest GPF on the market to date. 

“Niagara Conservation products were the perfect fit for the Towers at CCNY due to the Stealth’s under a gallon flush,” said Ari Kahn, founder of BEST. “Our Insight Energy Report and Smart Energy Strategy determined that for this property to see the incredible savings we expect from our process, we needed to utilize the Niagara products that have been consistent leaders in the water conservation industry for providing reliable results.”

The Towers also replaced old 2.38 GPM showerheads with 1.25 GPM fixtures, and installed 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 GPM kitchen and bathroom aerators. Niagara showerheads and aerators utilize patented Equiforce Technology, a pressure-compensating technology that guarantees a powerful, consistent flow rate regardless of available water pressure.  

Results

The retrofit was completed in 2017, and a total of 236 outdated toilets were replaced for Niagara fixtures. Over the course of a year, the Towers at CCNY experienced a 53 percent increase in water savings, which equated to over $71,000 saved for the property. The installation of Niagara toilets with flapper-less Stealth Technology also led to a decreased amount of time dedicated to maintenance, as well as fewer leaks. 

“Working with BEST and Niagara has drastically cut our water bills,” said Seth Grossman, director of Housing and Residence Life. “Not only that, but once installed, their products work well and take care of the savings for us!” 

The Niagara name has become synonymous with innovative conservation for a growing customer base of utility companies, government leaders, multifamily property owners, eco-minded architects, hospitality executives, and cost-conscious contractors and developers. Today — as climate change and population growth present an unprecedented strain on water supply — the company is doubling down on its purpose and pushing toilet technology to invent new ways for customers to conserve water without sacrificing performance. Visit niagaracorp.com.