Did you know that water heating accounts for up to 12% of a household’s utility bill? After heating and cooling, that’s the next largest portion of the bill, so no wonder people are always looking for ways to improve this cost and heat their water more efficiently.
While purchasing a new and upgraded water heater might be the best bet if you’re looking to save, not everyone is in a position to do so. And even so, with a new water heater, there are still ways you can improve water heating costs. Here are some of our most helpful recommendations if you’re looking to save on your water heating bill this month.
Depending on the size of your family and the duration of your showers, one method of bathing may conserve more water than the other. Generally speaking, a short shower will use less hot water than a full bathtub, setting you up to save on this month’s water heating bill. If you do take a bath, remember that just a few inches less of water can provide tremendous saving!
This may come across as common sense but reducing your time in the shower can save you more money than you realize, especially if you’re consistent with your shorter shower times. We know those long, hot showers can be difficult to leave, but just make sure there’s a warm towel waiting for you on the other side and we promise the transition won’t be that bad!
There are numerous times throughout the day when you can shut off the water to help cut costs (and wastefulness) on your next water heating bill. When you are brushing your teeth, doing the dishes, or even washing your hands, be sure to cut off the water when you’re not actually using it. After wetting your toothbrush, don’t let the water just run. Turn it off until you need it.
Did you know that by lowering the temperature on your water heater in increments of 10 degrees, you’re allowing yourself a savings of 3-5% each time? Of course, make sure your water heater is set a temperature that serves your needs, but if you feel that you can lower it, just know this is also helping you save.
While some loads of laundry may require a warm cycle, choose the cold setting when possible as this will cost you significantly less than a hot cycle. If you have a big family, a large amount of laundry, or if you just continue to do this consistently, you’ll see a noticeable change in your water heating bill.
Using your dishwasher efficiently is another useful way to save on your next water heating bill. You can do this by only running your dishwasher when it’s completely full, rather than running it with half or small loads. It will use the same amount of water, regardless of the size of the load, so run it wisely. You can also choose shorter cycles to cut water use and engage a water heater booster if your dishwasher comes equipped with ones.
Did you know that one tiny leak can cost you hundreds of dollars over the span of a year? Not to mention, it’s wasting perfectly good clean water that could be going elsewhere in your home. According to the American Water Works Association drip calculator, at 60 drips per minute, you waste 8.64 gallons per day, 259 gallons per month, and just over 3,153 gallons per year. Imagine the savings if leaks in your home were maintained and fixed!
Some of the newer water heater models come with heat traps installed but if yours does not, one of our skilled professionals can install one for you, no problem. By installing heat traps onto your water heater, you can save upwards of $15-$30 each month! That surely adds up over a year’s time.
Federal regulations require that all new showerheads and faucets have low flow rates, but if you’re concerned your fixtures do not, please call one of our friendly and helpful professionals to assist you. Older fixtures that date into the early 1990s or prior are also known to use twice as much water as new ones. By installing or having low-flow fixtures, you’re saving 25%-60% on your water heating bills which is well worth the investment!
Insulating your water tank is a great way to save on water heating costs but needs to be done properly to avoid a dangerous situation. If you have an electric tank, it’s very important to make sure you don’t cover the thermostat. If you have an oil or natural gas tank, it’s also very important that you don’t cover the water heater’s top, bottom, burner compartment, or thermostat.
By installing a timer to your hot water tank, you now have the ability for it to shut off at night when you’re not using it. You can also utilize this timer to shut off when you’re out of town, at work, or at your utility’s peak demands to lower costs significantly.
If you’re in the market for a new washer machine, investing could provide you a double bonus as newer washer machines are more efficient with their water usage. If you’re upgrading from a washer that’s over 10 years old, you could receive a yearly savings of up to $135!
Did you know that new Energy Star qualified dishwashers can provide a monthly savings on your water heating bill because they’re upwards of 33% more efficient? If you’re in the market for a new dishwasher, make sure to only purchase models that are Energy Star qualified.
You don’t have to continue pouring water down the drain (literally!) every month. Utilize these helpful tips to lower your monthly water heating costs and save your pocket hundreds each year. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please call us today and we’ll connect you with one of our experienced, skilled, and friendly team members to get you the help you need.