Water
- About 15 percent of an average home energy bill goes to heating water. To save hot water, take five-minute showers instead of baths.
- Do only full loads when using the clothes washer or dishwasher.
- Switch to cold water washing of laundry in top loading, energy-inefficient washing machines to save energy—detergents formulated for cold water get clothes just as clean.
- Lower the temperature on your water heater. It should be set at “warm,” so that a thermometer held under running water reads no more than 130 degrees.
- Install low-flow showerheads and sink aerators to reduce hot water use.
- A water tank insulation wrap costs about $20 and helps hold the heat inside. Add pre-cut pipe insulation to exposed pipes going into your water heater—it is cheap and easy to install.
- When it’s time to replace your hot water tank, buy the most efficient one possible. Consider a tankless, on-demand system (these won’t work for everyone, so talk to your installer).
- Install energy-saving showerheads in your home. You'll reduce hot water use and cut water costs by 10% to 16% without affecting comfort.
- Repair all leaky faucets. One drop per second can waste as much as 10 gallons of water in a week.