Fix leaking faucets right away. Leaks can waste gallons of water quickly. If hot water is leaking, it’s wasting energy too.
Insulate hot water heaters and pipes to prevent heat loss. If you’re doing it yourself, be careful not to cover the floor, top, thermostat or burner compartment of the heater. When in doubt, for safety, call us for our expert advice or to do the job for you.
Install low flow showerheads and aerators in faucets.
When buying a new water heater, select one with thick insulation. It may cost more initially, but it will pay off over the years in energy savings.
Hot water heaters sometimes come from the factory with high temperature settings. Lower the thermostat on your water heater to 115°F.
Each month, drain about a quart of water from your water heater – until the water runs clear. This removes sediment that lowers the efficiency of your heater. Follow the manufacturer’s advice on the exact steps for draining the heater.
Favor showers. Showers use less hot water than baths. A bath takes 15-25 gallons; a five-minute shower takes less than 10 gallons.
