Conserve hot water by installing water-saving showerheads.
Have you ever picked up a garden hose in the day and noticed that the water in the hose was very hot? You can put thermal heating technology to work for you in conjunction with your water heater to help reduce water heating costs.
If you need a new water heater, consider a high-efficiency model as a replacement. The increased efficiency may save you money in the long run.
If you use a dishwasher, a temperature setting of 140 degrees Fahrenheit is generally recommended. But if your dishwasher has a built-in water-heating unit or uses an instantaneous water heater, your water heater temperature can remain at 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
Insulating hot water pipes will save energy used to heat the water and save water that you otherwise will run down the drain waiting for the water to get hot.
Keep it warm. If your water heater doesn’t have a blanket, you may need one. If the side of your heater feels warm to the touch, you probably should get a water heater blanket. It can save you about 9% on your water heating costs.
Keep your water heater tank clean. If your home does not have a water softener unit, periodically drain off the sediment in the bottom of the water heater tank. This will prevent sediment buildup that, if left in the tank, would insulate the water from the heating element. Open the drain valve or faucet at the base of the water tank, then drain off a gallon or two of water into a container until it runs clean.
Lower the temperature. Try your water heater at low or 120 degrees Fahrenheit. At this temperature, the water should be hot enough to meet most household needs. If not, raise the water heater temperature a few degrees at a time until you are satisfied.
Repair leaky faucets that can make your hot water heater work overtime.
When you leave home for a weekend or longer, turn your gas water heater to the pilot setting. Turning off a water heater for a shorter period than 48 hours is not recommended.