Try These Simple Steps to Lower Water Heating Costs

Image of a neighborhood street with one white, two story home featured. There is a large green lawn and a sidewalk with trees to the left.

From the bath to the kitchen to the laundry room, hot water is always in demand. In fact, it’s the second largest home energy user, making up about 18% of the average energy bill.* Thankfully, there are some simple ways to save while still enjoying reliable hot water when you need it most.

Save with every shower

For maximum efficiency, install showerheads with a flow rate of less than 2.5 gallons per minute and faucet aerators with a flow rate of no more than 1 gallon per minute. Learn more and find products at epa.gov/watersense.

Insulate exposed water pipes

Insulating pipes can save energy and water. For hot water pipes, it keeps heat in the pipe instead of heating up the basement or crawlspace. Insulation also allows hot water to arrive faster at the faucet or showerhead, reducing water wasted while waiting for hot water. For directions on how to insulate your hot water pipes, visit energy.gov. You can also save energy and protect against freezing by insulationg cold water pipes. Insulate the first 6 feet coming out of the water heater to reduce heat loss.

Wash laundry in cold water

Did you know water heating accounts for about 90% of the energy your washing machine uses to wash clothes? Detergents are formulated to handle stains without hot water now, so washing in cold water is just as effective in most cases and saves energy while preventing carbon pollution.†

Turn down the temperature

Set the thermostat on your water heater to 120–130°F to save energy and money, and save even more by turning it to the “vacation” or “away” setting when you’re gone for extended periods of time or on vacation.

Upgrade to an energy-efficient water heater

Water heaters typically last 10 years or more, but when they do wear out, their performance drops off suddenly. We’re happy to help you avoid the guesswork and find the most efficient replacement water heater to meet your needs so you’re ready when it’s time to replace.

To talk about your water heating options, find a Trade Ally contractor or call 855.339.8866.

*Source: energy.gov
†Source: epa.gov

Posted July 2019.

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