EPA may expand product lineup that can earn WaterSense label

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) WaterSense program is considering expanding the types of products that can earn the WaterSense label.

The action would expand the label to include systems that enhance water quality at the tap. EPA published a Notice of Intent (NOI) to consider drafting a WaterSense specification for point-of-use reverse osmosis (RO) systems that treat water at a single fixture under the kitchen sink.

RO systems can effectively reduce total dissolved solids, heavy metals, and inorganic and organic contaminants in water used in homes and businesses, but they can waste significant amounts of water. Currently, a typical residential RO system operates at an efficiency of 20% or less.

In recent years, though, the technology and design of RO systems have improved, and manufacturers have developed more efficient systems. EPA is gathering feedback on potential efficiency and performance criteria for these systems to earn the label.