Dear Jim:

I am remodeling my bathroom. What things should I think about to make it most efficient?

-- Carol J.

Dear Carol:

Bathrooms can be responsible for a significant amount of your utility bills year-round.

Flushing toilets is the major water consumer. The maximum water usage allowed for new toilets is 1.6 gallons per flush. Several plumbing fixture manufacturers offer super-efficient standard-flush toilets that use less water, but fewer styles are available.

The shower head affects how much cold and hot water is consumed. There are maximum water flow rates on shower heads. Select a shower head that has a trickle valve to slow the water flow while lathering.

A bathroom vent fan with humidity- and motion-sensing controls is most efficient. It runs only as long as needed so excessive heated (winter) or cooled air (during summer) is not sucked from your house.

Send inquiries to James Dulley, The Roanoke Times, 6906 Royalgreen Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45244 or visit www.dulley.com.