Energy Tips

Tips for water heaters:

  • Install an energy efficient water heater. It really can make a difference.
  • Turn the temperature on your water heater down. By setting the temperature to 120 , you'll save 3 to 5% in water heating cost for each 10 degree reduction.
  • Install aerators in faucets and use energy efficient showerheads. This can reduce the amount of water used by 50%.
  • water heaterRepair leaks immediately. A dripping faucet can waste 6-10 gallons of water per day.
  • Insulate both hot and cold water pipes if they are outside of a heated space.
  • Take a shower instead of a bath. A 5-minute shower uses half as much hot water as an average bath.
  • Turn faucets off immediately after use.
  • Scrape dishes rather than rinse before putting in the dishwasher. Newer dishwashers can clean dishes with less rinsing.
  • Wash clothes in cold water using cold water detergents whenever possible. Switching the temperature from hot to warm can cut the energy use in half.
  • Wash full loads in both the dishwasher and clothes washer. It takes as much hot water to wash a partial load as a full load.
  • Check your dishwasher manual for manufacturer's recommendations on water temperature. Many have internal heating elements that allow you to set the water heater at a lower temperature.