(StatePoint) The climate crisis is no longer a distant threat—it’s a stark reality. From wildfires in the West to massive storms battering the South, Americans are reminded each day of their environmental impact.
Among the most pressing concerns is water scarcity. While water covers 70% of the globe, only 0.5% of it is usable for us, according to the Bureau of Reclamation. Climate change, pollution and rapid urbanization are further reducing water access.
A Growing Crisis
Water scarcity, driven by climate change, affects homeowners through rising insurance premiums, soaring utility costs, and declining property values. Meanwhile, rapid urbanization strains water infrastructure, and pollution continues to degrade water quality.
According to the 2024 Ecolab Watermark Study, 68% of Americans worry about climate change, and 70% are deeply concerned about water access. Luckily, there are still things that can be done to mitigate these concerns.
Smart Solutions for a Promising Future
Eco-conscious design is not just a trend, it’s a crucial component of planetary health. Smart home innovations, such as water monitors and leak detectors, are helping homeowners conserve water and protect their homes.
“Smart home solutions have been around a while, but continue to improve based on growing demands,†says Mason Hall, head of connected products, Moen and Fortune Brands Innovations. “Implementing smart products – specifically water-saving fixtures—is one of the simplest ways to make your home more sustainable without sacrificing your overall experience.â€
When it comes to water conservation, Moen’s Flo Smart Water Monitor and Shutoff is leading the charge. This device continuously monitors your entire home’s water usage, detecting leaks as small as one drop per minute—from a leaky toilet to a major pipe burst. Using machine learning, it identifies changes in pressure and flow, alerting homeowners before damage escalates. In fact, 60% of users discovered a leak they weren’t aware of within 30 days.
In total, the Smart Water Monitor and Shutoff has alerted users to over 2 million potential water leaks, according to Flow Technologies data. Plus, it helps track water usage by individual faucet, empowering waste reduction and money savings.
Protect Your Wallet (And the Planet)
Rising environmental issues often lead to rising insurance costs. In disaster-prone areas, some insurance companies are reducing coverage or even withdrawing from the market due to the high costs and frequency of claims for home repairs or rebuilds.
Water damage, in particular, is a major culprit. The Insurance Information Institute (III) reports that water is claimed six times more than fire and eight times more than theft. Based on III and Census Bureau data, Moen estimates that nationally, insurers pay out over $15 billion in water claim damages annually. To mitigate these costs, many insurance companies now offer premium discounts to homeowners who install smart products like the Flo Smart Water Monitor and Shutoff, which can reduce the likelihood of water damage claims.
Making Every Drop Count
Companies also have a responsibility to help drive positive change.
The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that 1 trillion gallons of water are wasted due to leaks each year. In 2020, Moen launched Mission Moen, a commitment to conserve 1 trillion gallons of water through the use of water-saving products by 2030. Since then, the company has conserved 317 billion gallons of water.
Moen’s new Hot Water Savings Handheld Shower by some estimates reduces shower water usage by over a third—saving up to 5,500 gallons annually. When Conserve Mode is activated, this feature reduces water flow to a trickle once it reaches 95 degrees F, then maintains the temperature, preventing unnecessary water waste while still providing an exceptional shower experience. The product also features Moen’s Magnetix technology, with a magnetic dock made from recycled ocean plastic, further embracing sustainability.
At moen.com, consumers can find solutions that help contribute to a healthier planet.
By embracing smart technology, practicing conservation and supporting companies that make a positive impact, everyone can play a role in creating a water-abundant future.
