Hot water is a modern necessity, but it can also be a significant drain on your wallet. It’s easy to overlook how much energy we use heating hot water until the bill arrives.
Fortunately, there are many practical steps you can take to reduce these costs without making drastic lifestyle changes. Let’s explore ten straightforward ways to save money on your hot water heating.
1. Embrace Shorter Showers
This might seem obvious, but it’s one of the most effective ways to cut down on hot water usage. Even shaving a couple of minutes off your daily shower can make a noticeable difference over time. Think of it this way: less time under the hot water means less water heated, and less energy consumed.
2. Install Low-Flow Showerheads
Standard shower heads can use a surprising amount of water. Low-flow showerheads, on the other hand, are designed to restrict the flow without sacrificing the feeling of a good shower. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. While only a small change, this significantly reduce your water consumption and your hot water bill.
Need help to reduce your hot water bill? Contact our team today. We’ll be happy to help you assess your hot water system and make changes to reduce the cost of hot water in your Hawke’s Bay home this Winter.
3. Fix Leaky Faucets and Pipes
A dripping faucet or a leaky pipe might seem like a minor annoyance, but they can waste a considerable amount of hot water over time. Even a small drip can add up to litres of wasted water each month.
Regularly check your faucets and pipes for leaks and repair them promptly. A quick fix can save you money in the long run.
4. Insulate Your Hot Water Pipes
Bare hot water pipes lose heat as the water travels through them, meaning your water heater has to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. Insulating your hot water pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements or crawl spaces, can minimize heat loss. Pipe insulation is readily available at most hardware stores and is relatively easy to install yourself.
5. Adjust Your Water Heater’s Temperature
Adjusting your Water Heater’s temperature could save you money – but safety needs to come first. If you’re storing hot water your cylinder must be set to above 60 degrees celsius for disinfection purposes.
For cylinders you can install a tempering valve to control the temperature to your outlets (now a requirement under NZ Standards on new installations) or if you have a continuous flow unit that does not store water you can have your controller set to a lower temperature.
6. Consider a Water Heater Timer or Smart Controller
If your schedule is relatively predictable, a timer or smart controller for your hot water heater can be a worthwhile investment. These devices allow you to set your water heater to turn on only when you need hot water, such as during morning showers or evening dishwashing. This avoids heating hot water unnecessarily throughout the day or night.
Rinnai Infinity Hot Water Heaters offer you access to hot water whenever you need it, and don’t use any energy when you don’t. Contact us today and ask us about installing a continuous flow hot water system in your Hawke’s Bay home.
7. Wash Clothes in Cold Water
Many modern washing machines and detergents are designed to clean clothes effectively in cold water. Switching to cold water washes could save a significant amount of energy. The hot water used for washing clothes may represent a notable portion of your household’s hot water consumption.
8. Run Full Loads in Your Dishwasher and Washing Machine
Running half-empty dishwashers or washing machines wastes both water and energy. Wait until you have a full load before running these appliances. This simple habit can reduce the number of cycles you run, thereby lowering your hot water usage.
9. Insulate Your Hot Water Cylinder
If you have a hot water cylinder that is not insulated; it’s losing heat. Insulating the tank with a water heater blanket can help retain heat and reduce energy consumption. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions or ask an expert for help.
10. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Hot Water Heater
If your water heater is old or inefficient, consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model when it’s time for a replacement. Newer models, such as the Rinnai HydraHeat Hot Water Heat Pump, can offer significant energy savings. While the initial cost may be higher, the long-term savings on your energy bills can make it a worthwhile investment.
By implementing these practical steps, you can reduce your hot water bills without sacrificing comfort. Remember that even small changes can add up over time. With a little effort, you can enjoy savings and keep your energy costs under control.
Contact the team at East Coast Plumbing and Gas.
*Compared with a standard hot water cylinder in Zone 5 (Auckland). Annual energy performance estimated according to AS/NZS4234:2008 and AS/NZS5125:2014, medium load size.