Heating water is one of your largest annual energy expenses. A water heater can cost a typical household of three $13.90 a month (for gas) to $45.00 a month (for electric).
If you need a new water heater, consider buying a high efficiency model. It may cost more to buy, but it costs less to use, so you'll save in the long run. Also, be sure to firmly secure your water heater by fastening it to studs in the wall.
Check your thermostat control. To work most efficiently, your water heater should be set between 120°F and 125°F. You may need to set it at 140°F for some dishwasher models, so check the owner’s manual. Temperatures above 125°F can result in accidental scalding.
If your water heater doesn't have a water heater blanket, you may need one. To find out, place your hand against the outside of your water heater. If it feels warm, then you should consider buying a water heater blanket. It can save up to 9% on your water heating costs. But check the caution label on your water heater. Newer models come with proper insulation, and some even prohibit installing a blanket. Finally, don't cover the inspection plate with the blanket or store any combustibles close to the heater. It could be a fire hazard.
If your faucets drip, that's money down the drain. A slow drip of hot water can waste up to 200 gallons per month. So, you're not only paying to heat the water, but you're paying for the water itself.
Install low-flow devices on your faucets and showers. They can cut up to 11% of your water use, which will help reduce your energy bills. Also consider taking showers rather than baths. A shower typically uses less hot water than a bath (especially if you limit your showers to five minutes or less). If you just need a shampoo, try using the sink rather than taking a shower.
If you're going away for longer than a month, consider shutting off your water heater. With a gas water heater, cut off the gas by turning the thermostat to "Off," then turning off the supply valves. With an electric water heater, shut it off at the circuit breaker box. Either way, your water heater won't have to heat water while you're gone. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for shutting off and relighting your gas pilot light.
The bright yellow EnergyGuide label on new appliances can be a very valuable resource in helping you select a new appliance. It shows the estimated annual operating cost, which can help you make the decision that's right for you.
Use cold water instead of hot water to wash clothes or rinse dishes. If you have a gas water heater, this will save you about 10¢ for a load of clothes and 15¢ for a load of dishes. But, if you have an electric water heater you can save more: about 25¢ for a load of clothes and 45¢ for a load of dishes.
Turn the water off while you're brushing your teeth, lathering your hands with soap or scrubbing dishes.
That's right. run your dishwasher. By running it once a day (or less) you'll use around 17 gallons of hot water each time, compared to the 10 gallons you'll generally use each time you wash the dishes by hand. Only wash full loads and use the energy-saver setting, which eliminates the dry cycle at a savings of 5¢ to 10¢ per load.