Water Heater Savings
by Nikki Willhite
www.allthingsfrugal.com
With a lot of us facing higher energy costs, I thought an
article about saving money on hot water would be timely. Our water heaters
can be a significant part of the cost of our electricity. There are many
things we can do to lower our bills.
Here are some ideas:
Faucets and showers:
Fix those dripping faucets! Turn the faucet off when you
are not using the water even though you are still standing there and will be
using it again- such as when you brush your teeth or shaving.
Showers cost less than baths. Even so, keep them short.
You will also use less water if you install energy
efficient shower heads. Most of these shower heads advertise at least a 30
percent savings in water.
Dishwashers and Washing Machines
Always run your dishwasher full, or you are wasting a lot
of money.
Depending where you live, it may be more economical to run
it during non-peak hours, or in the evening.
It is more economical to air dry your dishes. However,
dying them with heat sterilizes them. Use your best judgment.
The same is true with your washing machine. Always run it
full. Like your dishwasher, the biggest expense in running it is heating the
water.
Turn down the Temperature on your water heater.
Turning down the temperature on your water heater not only
saves money, but it can prevent accidents. Many people have accidently
scorched themselves in the bath or shower.
It is suggested that you do not set your heater higher
than 120 degrees F. You will save about 4% of your energy cost for each 10
degrees you lower your thermostat.
When you go on vacation, check to see if your water heater
has a "vacation setting".
- Water is a resource. Use it wisely!
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