- Solution Type: Showcase Project
- Sector Type: Multifamily
- Project Size: 260,000 Sq. Ft.
- Financial Overview: $70,000
Background
As part of its ongoing environmental management efforts, Stoneweg US continuously evaluates water efficiency and intensity across its portfolio. Wood Hollow Apartments, a 346-unit community built in 1985, was identified as a strong candidate for a water retrofit due to its high-water usage and inefficiency. At the time, the property had an EPA Water Score of just 8 out of 100 and a water use intensity of 109 gallons per square foot, making it a prime opportunity for meaningful improvements. As a result of the water retrofit upgrades, Wood Hollow Apartments has reduced water usage by 36%, saving more than $30,000 in annual water costs after one year.
Solutions
After identifying Wood Hollow as a high-impact retrofit opportunity, Stoneweg US leveraged Fort Worth’s free Water Efficiency Opportunity Survey, part of the City’s Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional (ICI) Water Conservation Program. This survey included interviews with on-site staff, a review of common areas and 20% of apartment units, an in-depth analysis of water bills, and a full inventory of existing water fixtures, their flow rates, and estimated annual consumption. The survey’s findings led to clear recommendations for improvement, including replacing all outdated toilets exceeding 1.28 gallons per flush with high-efficiency models, installing high-efficiency aerators on kitchen and bathroom faucets, and upgrading all showerheads to low-flow, high-performance models.
The upgrades were completed over a three-week period, finishing on June 28, 2024. During this time, the site team communicated regularly with community residents to ensure clear expectations around scheduling, and in most cases the upgrades took less than an hour. In total, Stoneweg US replaced 451 outdated toilets, 290 showerheads, 176 kitchen sink aerators, and 207 bathroom sink aerators across the property. By taking advantage of Fort Worth’s SmartFlush toilet replacement program through which the city provides new toilets at no charge, the project was completed at minimal cost beyond labor.
After installation, Stoneweg US analyzed utility data from July through November 2024, using the same period in 2023 as a baseline. The results showed a 25 percent decrease in water consumption, saving an estimated 2.75 million gallons and $23,500. The reduction in hot water demand led to an 18 percent decrease in natural gas consumption, with a 12 percent reduction in associated costs. Because water consumption fluctuates seasonally, sometimes by as much as 66 percent between peak and low-use months, these figures provide a conservative snapshot of the project’s full-year impact. Beyond utility savings, the retrofit directly increased the property’s value. Applying a standard capitalization rate, the savings would result in an estimated 2.68 percent appreciation, equal to an estimated increase in property value of $1,057,369.88.
The water retrofit at Wood Hollow Apartments highlights how strategic investments can drive significant financial, environmental, and resident-focused benefits. By leveraging city resources, a data-driven approach, and a commitment to resident satisfaction, Stoneweg US successfully cut water usage, lowered costs, and improved the quality of life for residents. This project serves as a model for future efficiency-driven initiatives, reinforcing how thoughtful retrofits can create lasting value for both investors and residents alike.
Other Benefits
While efficiency and cost savings were key drivers of this project, ensuring a positive resident experience was equally important. Before implementation, Stoneweg US conducted extensive testing to select fixtures that provided both water efficiency and resident comfort. If a product was too restrictive, such as faucet aerators that significantly limited water flow, it was excluded from the scope.
After installation, each apartment received a flyer explaining the improvements, why they were made, and how residents could provide feedback (through a Google Form). This proactive approach ensured that residents understood the benefits of the upgrades while providing an easy way to voice any concerns. The leasing office received feedback and followed up on any necessary work orders, ensuring a smooth transition for residents.
Feedback from the resident surveys further reinforced the success of the project, with over 80 percent of respondents reporting satisfaction or neutrality regarding the upgrades. The overwhelmingly positive response validated the thoughtful fixture selection process, solidifying preferred fixture choices for future retrofit projects. By prioritizing both efficiency and livability, the project not only delivered measurable financial and environmental benefits, but also supported resident retention, reduced vacancy loss, and minimized turnover costs—key factors in ensuring the long-term success of the community.
Annual water use
Savings: 36%
| Baseline (May 2024) | 108 gal/sqft |
| Expected (May 2025) | 69 gal/sqft |
Annual water cost
Cost savings: $32,770
| Baseline (May 2024) | $91,029 |
| Expected (May 2025) | $58,258 |
This case study originally appeared on the Better Buildings website.
