Water-saving devices like low-flow taps primarily reduce water flow by mixing air into the water stream.
Water-saving devices, particularly low-flow taps and flow-controlled aerators, implement clever techniques to decrease the volume of water used without necessarily compromising the user experience. One of the most common and effective methods is mixing air into the water-flow.
This process, often achieved through an aerator attached to the tap spout, works by introducing tiny air bubbles into the water stream. This bulks up the volume of the stream, giving the feel and impression of full water-flow even though the actual water volume being used is significantly less.
By displacing a portion of the water with air, these devices can dramatically reduce the flow rate. For example, installing low-flow taps or flow-controlled aerators can reduce tap-water use from a standard 15-18 litres per minute (L/min) down to as little as 2 L/min, as shown below:
| Device Type | Typical Flow Rate (L/min) |
|---|---|
| Standard Tap | 15 - 18 |
| Low-Flow Tap/Aerator | 2 - 8 (depending on model) |
This simple yet effective technology allows households and businesses to conserve significant amounts of water during daily activities like washing hands, brushing teeth, or doing dishes, contributing to lower water bills and environmental sustainability.
