Keeping Electricity From Going Down the Drain

Heating water can account for 14–15% of the total energy consumed in a typical home. Plus, systems used to clean public water supplies and deliver it to homes require large amounts of electricity. If your home receives water from a well or spring, the pump also draws power. So when we use water, hot or cold, we are also using energy.
 
Techniques of trimming the amount of water used in your home are surprisingly simple. For one, you can significantly reduce hot water consumption by repairing leaks in fixtures—faucets and shower heads—or pipes. A leak of one drip per second can cost $1 per month.
 
You can also reduce water heating costs in a matter of seconds by lowering the thermostat setting on your water heater. For each 10°F reduction in temperature, you can save between 3% and 5% in energy costs. Reducing the setting also slows mineral buildup and corrosions in your water heater and pipes.
 
Although some manufacturers set water heater thermostats at 140°F, most households usually only require them to be set at 120°F. However, if you have a dishwasher without a booster heater, you may require water temperature within a range of 130°F–140°F for optimum cleaning.
 
Adding insulation to your water heater can save around 4–9% in costs. To determine if you need to insulate your water heater, touch it. A tank that’s warm to the touch needs additional insulation.
 
Insulating your water heater tank is fairly simple and inexpensive, and will pay for itself in about a year. You can find pre-cut jackets or blankets available from around $10-$20. Choose one with an insulating value of at least R-8. In addition, don’t set the thermostat above 130°F on an electric water heater with an insulating jacket or blanket—the wiring may overheat.
 
Installing insulation on gas and oil-fired water heaters is more difficult. For these appliances, it’s best to have a qualified plumbing and heating contractor perform the work.
 
For more tips on trimming water use in your home, including pipe and water heater insulation techniques, visit www.energysavers.gov.