Easy Ways to Lower Your Water Heating Costs
If you’re like most Americans, hot water consumption isn’t something you think about every day. This rings particularly true in the boiling summer months, where the heat takes your mind off the length and temperature of your showers. However, you likely use more hot water on a daily basis than you realize. All this consumption can amount to a hefty bottom line when paying the bills. Here are a few easy ways to lower your water heating costs!
1: Use Less Water
It’s pretty simple, if you want to save on water costs, then use less water! One of the easiest solutions is to take shorter showers. One way to time yourself is by playing music in the background. This gives you an idea of how long you’ve been in the shower, and better yet, can signal when it’s time to get out. Another solution is to simply take cold showers. While it’s not for everyone, it can seriously lower your hot water costs.
2: Insulate Your Pipes
Insulating your pipes is another great option for lowering water heating costs. It may be more labor intensive, but the long-term benefits are worth it. Adding a thick layer of insulation tubing around your pipes helps retain heat extremely well. This is particularly effective in the winter, but can help in the summer months as well. Similarly, you can insulate your water heater directly by putting a water heater blanket or jacket on the unit as well.
3: Check for Leaky Faucets
A general rule of thumb for all water conservation is to check for leaky faucets. This includes sinks, showers, and whatever else distributes water into your home. Catching leaks early is super important. Catching a leak too late can make it more difficult to fix. Furthermore, the amount of wasted water is sure to hurt your bottom line. If it’s a more complicated faucet problem, be sure to call a professional plumber to come help.
4: Efficient Equipment
If it’s been awhile since you upgraded certain appliances – like your dishwasher – consider replacing your current unit. As technology advances, so does each unit’s energy efficiency. They tend to use less hot water, and as result, you see that bill shrink each and every month. Beyond the savings, it’s always a good idea to keep your appliances up to date.
5: Consider Going Tankless
Tankless water heaters are the latest invention that makes your hot water consumption much more efficient. They are able to heat water directly without the use of a storage tank, and because of that, are far more efficient than your traditional models. Essentially, a small unit is permanently heated at an elevated temperature. As water passes through, it is instantaneously heated, no storage tank required.
Becoming more efficient with your hot water usage isn’t difficult. For more information on lowering your water heating bills, contact SameDay Heating & Air with all your plumbing needs. Give us a call at (801) 726-3329, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook & Twitter as well!
