When we think to save energy in our home, we think mainly about conserving on the lights and the efficiency of our appliances. Most of us don’t put any thought into our hot water systems. Your hot water system can use more energy than the lights and appliances combined together if not insulated properly.
There are four main areas to your water system that you can make more energy efficient and save money on your energy costs:
· Insulating the water pipes
· Insulating the water tank
· Installing flow restrictors and aerators
· Fixing leaky faucets
As hot water travels through your pipes it loses heat. If you insulate your pipes you can lower the main temperature setting on your hot water tank by a few degrees and the water will still be plenty warm by the time it gets to you. You can either use regular batt insulation which you can seal up with duct tape or the easy snap on type. Both can be purchased at most hardware stores. The main stipulation is that it should be at least a ½” thick to be efficient.
Insulating your hot water tank will also help to save energy by maintaining the correct temperature of the sitting water. This will prevent the system from turning on as often, costing money and using
energy every time it turns on. Some newer models of water heaters are already well insulated so there is no need for additional insulation. But, any water heater that feels warm to the touch should be insulated. The vinyl-covered insulating jacket can also be purchased at any hardware store and the cost will be recouped in a short period of time by the savings you will notice on your bill.
Flow restrictors and aerators are other simple ways to save energy. A flow restrictor will regulate the amount of water that comes out of your showerhead. It can save you up to a gallon of water per minute in the shower alone. An aerator tap will add air to the water coming from the taps to reduce the amount needed to do a job. Restrictors and aerators are easy to install by following the manufactures’ directions.
The most important way to save energy and water is to fix any leaks or drips that you may have in your water system. Pipes and faucets should be well maintained. Even at one drop of water per second you will be losing five gallons of water each day. That is 150 gallons of water per month in wasted energy and water that could easily have been prevented.
The next time you are looking at the lights in your home and considering changing them to energy efficient bulbs, or upgrading your appliances, give a moment to think about your water system. Just by following these few easy steps of insulation, restriction and maintenance you can help to save energy and lower your monthly water heating bill.
