Plumbing Technology to Improve Customer Comfort and Health
People may not associate plumbers with technology, but the modern plumber knows that technology makes his job much easier. From offering customers better products and services to managing the office and fleet more effectively, modern technology is helping the plumbing industry evolve. Here are some trends to watch if you are in the field:
In addition to saving water and energy, customers are looking for plumbing technology that makes them more comfortable and healthier at home. For instance, technological advancements that make toilets and faucets “touchless” are becoming increasingly popular in the home. Customers enjoy being able to close the lid, flush the toilet and wash their hands without having to touch germ-infested surfaces.
Water filtration systems are increasingly on demand as consumers are learning more about the dangers of tap water. Reverse osmosis filtration systems are a popular option in the modern home, because customers want instant access to clean drinking water.
Shower technology is also making the home experience more comfortable. Luxury faucets and showerheads can turn the home shower into a spa-like experience. Plumbers who can offer these types of upgrades to their customers will meet a growing need in the industry.
The strong focus on high performing, low water usage products is a trend that is here to stay. Both plumbing professionals and homeowners want 1.0 and 1.28 Gpf toilets that are water efficient while still providing high levels of performance when it comes to mass removal. This is actually more than a trend. It’s a way of life that’s becoming the norm for our industry.
Another trend the industry will be living with for decades to come is the large number of Baby Boomers moving into the next stages of their lives. The U.S. Census Bureau reported in 2014 that there were 76.4 million Baby Boomers currently living in the United States. Given those numbers ADA-compliant sanitary ware and bathware products could be a category that will soar in the coming years.
There’s a huge population of homeowners who are proactively seeking products that will make the aging process easier for them. Taller toilets that are ADA-approved and walk-in tubs will be the winners for this category of people. It’s all about making life easier as we get older.