When changing your faucet, why are products with the Ecologiq identification a good option?
The products identified as Ecologiq are focused on optimizing your water consumption, without compromising their efficiency. Their flow rate is below the standards set by the National Plumbing Code and are often more environmentally friendly than WaterSense accredited products. WaterSense is an American certification aimed at identifying plumbing products with adequate and efficient water consumption.
So, if you want to pay attention to your water consumption in order to save money and reduce your environmental impact, our Ecologiq products are a perfect solution for you.
I often hear about CSA certified products, but none of your products have this certification. Why?
Several recognized and accredited organizations are certifying products. Here are some examples:
- CSA International (CSA)
- IAPMO Research and Testing, Inc. (UPC) (cUPC)
- Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC)
- Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL)
- NFS International (NFS)
- Intertek (WH – Warnock Hersey)
At Bélanger UPT, we have our faucets certified by IAPMO Research and Testing Inc (cUPC). The cUPC certification, led by IAPMO (International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials), is recognized and used in Canada and the United States. Certified products meet ASME specifications ASME A112.18.1-2012 / CSA B125.1-12. Some of our faucets are cUPC Low Lead certified rather than just cUPC. These products, intended for the consumption of drinking water (kitchen faucets, washbasins and etc.), have a lead content of less than 0.25%.
Some of your products meet the requirements of a CalGreen certification. What does that mean?
It simply means that they are in compliance with the requirements of the California Building Code, which is very strict with respect to the consumption of drinking water. The flow rates of these faucets are lower than our usual products or even some of our products with the Ecologiq designation.
What is the difference between a LEED® product and an Ecologiq product?
In both cases, the water consumption is reduced. On the other hand, for LEED® products, it is possible to further reduce the flow. In fact, LEED® is an evaluation system that estimates the environmental performance of a building. LEED® encourages the transformation of the global market towards a more sustainable design.
Concretely, LEED® homes consume less energy, water and natural resources. Bélanger UPT is proud to have a LEED® program that will help you achieve your water saving goals. In addition, some of our products are labeled “LEED Option”, indicating that it is possible to modify the product to reduce its water consumption that conforms to LEED® requirements. LEED product reduce up to 40% the water flow compared to the standard.
Some of your products are ADA compliant. What does that mean ?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a US law that sets accessibility standards for people with disabilities. It prohibits all discrimination and guarantees equal opportunities. When developing our products, we make every effort to ensure that they meet ADA requirements. For example, we provide them with a lever handle to facilitate the opening and closing of water flow on our faucets.