Water heating is the third largest energy expense in your home, typically accounting for about 14% of your utility bill.
There are four ways to cut your water heating bills: use less hot water by installing low flow fixtures, turn down the thermostat on your water heater, insulate your water heater, and install a more efficient water heater. HDR Remodeling offers services to take advantage of all four options, depending on your needs.
Water Heater Tips
- Repair leaky faucets promptly; a leaky faucet wastes gallons of water in a short period.
- Insulate your hot water storage tank and pipes to reduce heat loss.
- Install aerators in faucets and low-flow showerheads.
- Invest in a new high efficiency water heater; while it may cost more initially the energy savings will continue during the lifetime of the appliance.
- Lower the thermostat on your water heater to about 115°F to provide comfortable hot water for most uses.
- Drain a quart or more of water from your water tank (until the water runs clear) every month or two to remove sediment that impedes heat transfer and lowers the efficiency of your heater. The type of water tank you have determines the steps to take, so follow the manufacturer's advice.
- If you heat with electricity and live in a warm and sunny climate, consider installing a solar water heater. The solar units are environmentally friendly and can now be installed on your roof to blend with the architecture of your house.
- Take more showers than baths. Bathing uses the most hot water in the average household. You use 15-25 gallons of hot water for a bath, but less than ten gallons during a 5-minute shower.
