Saving water doesn’t mean sacrificing performance or comfort. In fact, today’s plumbing technology is smarter, more efficient, and often more affordable than ever thanks to rebate programs in British Columbia.
If you’re looking to make your Okanagan home more sustainable, here are the most effective eco-friendly plumbing upgrades you can make, how they benefit your home, and what rebates are available to help cover the cost.
Why Sustainable Plumbing Matters in the Okanagan
- The Okanagan Valley is one of BC’s most drought-prone regions.
- Residential water use accounts for up to 65% of water consumption, much of it indoors.
- Plumbing upgrades are one of the fastest ways to reduce your environmental footprint—without a major renovation.
- Install Low-Flow Toilets (and Get a Rebate)
Toilets are one of the biggest water users in your home, especially older models.
Modern low-flow or dual-flush toilets use as little as 3–4.8 litres per flush, compared to 13–20 litres in older toilets.
- Upgrade to Water-Saving Faucets & Showerheads
Replacing outdated showerheads and faucets is one of the cheapest, quickest upgrades you can make.
Look for WaterSense®-certified fixtures
Save up to 50% of water use without affecting pressure
Available at most hardware stores or from your local plumber
Bonus: Reduced hot water usage = lower energy bills too.
- Install a High-Efficiency Dishwasher or Mashing Machine
Appliances matter more than you think. ENERGY STAR® dishwashers and washers not only use less water, but they also use less electricity to heat that water.
Rebate Available:
FortisBC offers instant rebates when purchasing eligible ENERGY STAR® dishwashers and washing machines.
See current rebate amounts
4. Consider a Tankless or High-Efficiency Water Heater
Tankless water heaters provide hot water on demand—no storage tank required, cutting down on standby energy loss and saving water in the process.
They’re ideal for smaller homes, couples, or anyone looking to shrink their carbon footprint.
FortisBC offers up to $1,000+ in rebates for upgrading to high-efficiency or tankless water heaters, depending on your fuel source.
Explore rebate options here
- Check for Leaks & Upgrade Your Shut-Off Valves
Even a small leak from a toilet or faucet can waste thousands of litres of water annually.
Have your plumber check for:
Hidden leaks in walls, crawlspaces, or irrigation lines
Corroded or outdated shut-off valves under sinks and toilets
Leaking outdoor hose bibs (especially in older homes in Peachland & Summerland)
Upgrading old plumbing materials while you’re at it, like Poly-B or Kitec, is also a smart long-term investment.
Okanagan Plumbing Rebates & Support
Residents in Kelowna, West Kelowna, Peachland, and Summerland may be eligible for rebates on toilets, water heaters, and appliances through:
FortisBC Residential Rebates
CleanBC Better Homes Rebates
Vision’s local plumbing upgrade services
FAQs – Eco Friendly Solutions
Yes! Modern low-flow toilets use 60–70% less water per flush and work just as well as older models, often better.
Not typically, but if you’re combining it with other renovations or making changes to water lines, check with your local municipality or ask your plumber.
Check for an ENERGY STAR® label or consult your plumber. If it’s more than 10 years old, replacement may save water and energy.
Yes! Many homeowners combine toilet, appliance, and water heater rebates for even greater savings.
For most rebates, FortisBC requires the product to be installed by a licensed contractor and provides a list of qualifying models and guidelines.
Start Saving Water & Energy Today
Sustainable plumbing upgrades are a smart investment for your home—and your planet. Whether you’re looking to replace a single toilet or modernize your entire plumbing setup, Vision Plumbing Heating Cooling is here to help.
Serving Kelowna, West Kelowna, Peachland & Summerland
Book a consultation and ask us about current rebates that can save you money while going green.
