Save Energy and Money by Reducing Hot Water Use

The bottom line is that when you reduce hot water use in your home, you save energy and you save money. It's a win-win all the way around. And, it's pretty straightforward: You can lower your water heating costs by simply using and wasting less hot water in your home.

To conserve hot water, fix leaks, install low-flow fixtures and, next time you need to replace your dishwasher or clothes washer, be sure to choose energy-efficient models.

Fix Leaks
You can significantly reduce hot water use by repairing leaks in fixtures—faucets and showerheads—and pipes. According to the U.S. EPA, a leak of one drip per second can cost $1 per month, which might not seem like a lot, but just imagine if there are several leaks in various places around your home. The cost really can add up.

[Now if your water heater's tank leaks, you need a new water heater. Check out this helpful info on the EPA's Energy Savers website when it's time to shop for a new water heater.]

Install Low-Flow Fixtures
Federal regulations now mandate that new showerhead flow rates can't exceed more than 2.5 gallons per minute (gpm) at a water pressure of 80 pounds per square inch (psi). New faucet flow rates can't exceed 2.5 gpm at 80 psi or 2.2 gpm at 60 psi. Installing aerators on older faucets and replacing showerheads with a newer low-flow model is quite affordable and will achieve water savings of 25%–60%.

Low-flow toilets are also a must - and the new models far out perform the models that first hit the market way back when. So don't hang on to an old-style water hog because you've heard stories about having to double flush, etc. That's definitely not the case any longer.

Showerheads
Before 1992, some showerheads had flow rates of as much as 5.5 gpm. If you're not sure of your fixtures' flow rates, here's a quick test to determine whether you should replace a showerhead:

1. Place a bucket—marked in gallon increments—under your shower head.
2. Turn on the shower at the normal water pressure you use.
3. Time how many seconds it takes to fill the bucket to the 1-gallon (3.8 liter) mark.
If it takes less than 20 seconds to reach the 1-gallon mark, you would definitely save hot water with a new low-flow shower head.

There are two basic types of low-flow showerheads: aerating and laminar-flow. Aerating showerheads mix air with water, forming a misty spray. Laminar-flow showerheads form individual streams of water. If you want to reduce the amount of steam and moisture in the bathroom, choose a laminar-flow showerhead.

Faucets
The screw-on tip of the faucet—the aerator—determines the maximum flow rate of a faucet. New kitchen faucets generally come equipped with aerators that restrict flow rates to 2.2 gpm, while new bathroom faucets have ones that restrict flow rates to 1.5 to 0.5 gpm.

Aerators are inexpensive to replace and they can be one of the most cost-effective water conservation measures. For maximum water efficiency, purchase aerators that have flow rates of no more than 1.0 gpm.

Purchase Energy-Efficient Dishwashers and Clothes Washers
The biggest cost of washing dishes and clothes comes from the energy required to heat the water. You'll significantly reduce your energy costs if you purchase and use an energy-efficient dishwasher and clothes washer. End of story.

When shopping for a new appliance, check the EnergyGuide label to compare energy use. It's also worth checking with your local water department for rebates. (See links below.)

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There are other tricks for reducing you hot water use. You can also lower the water temperature on your water heater, and you might want to consider using a hot water recirculation pump.

But these basic steps will get you started.

For more information and help getting started, contact your local water provider.

:: City of Sonoma Residential Water Conservation has rebates, free showerheads and faucet aerators, and information on the Cash for Grass (no not that kind of grass) Program.

:: The Valley of the Moon Water District also has water conservation incentives.

:: City of Napa Water Conservation Resources

:: City of Petaluma Water Resources and Conservation