Hot water is one of those comforts we often take for granted. But water heating can amount to 12% of your monthly energy use. You can save with some simple tips. That leaky faucet, for example, can lead to gallons of wasted water, and create a “drain” on your monthly bill. Here are some tips from Burke-Divide Electric Cooperative:
- Lower the temperature. For most households, a 120-degree setting on your water heater may work fine.
- Insulate the tank. Install water heater wrap, also known as water heater blanket, per manufacturer’s instructions.
- Maintain. Drain 1 to 2 gallons from the bottom of your water heater each year to reduce sediment buildup.
- Install heat traps. Heat traps allow the flow of cold water into the tank, but prevent heated water and unwanted convection to low from the unit. Most modern water heaters are designed with built-in heat traps. But if your unit is more than 10 years old (and in good condition), installing a heat trap is a viable option. Or install heat traps on hot and cold water lines when it’s time to replace your water heater.
- Insulate exposed hot water lines. In addition to insulating the tank itself, consider adding insulation to the first 6 feet of both the hot and cold water pipes connected to the unit.
- Fix dripping faucets. You can significantly reduce hot water use by simply repairing leaks in fixtures, such as faucets and shower heads. A leak of one drip per second wastes 1,661 gallons of water and can cost up to $35 per year.
