If you want to save on your water heating bill, there is a really easy way you can do so without cutting back on your usage or adding any expensive equipment.
Many homeowners think that by continuously investing in things like new water tanks and other energy-efficient items they can save on their water heating bill, but there’s an easier — and cheaper — way to do it.
You Can Save on Your Water Heating Bill Right Now
First, you need to find out what temperature your water heater’s thermostat is set. The fact is that hot water takes up a lot of energy.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the recommended thermostat setting for your water heater is 120 degrees. If it’s higher than that, you may well be paying a higher energy bill than necessary.
If you make the adjustment and lower your water heater thermostat, you can save between 3% to 5% on your water heating costs, the agency says.
Of course, you may be wondering how well some of your major appliances will function if you turn your water heater’s temperature down a bit. The Department of Energy says not to worry and here’s why:
Many dishwashers have built-in heat boosters that reach 145 degrees — the necessary temperature to sterilize dishes and utensils. Sinks and tankless water heaters require much lower temperatures, according to the Department of Energy.
2 Other Ways to Save At Home
At the outset, we mentioned you don’t have to buy expensive add-ons and other things to lower your water heating bill. That also applies to saving at home in other ways.
Money expert Clark Howard says you can cut your water bill by buying these two affordable items:
Low-Flow Toilets
“I had a low-flow toilet put into my house,” Clark says. “I went from using 3.5 gallons/flush to 1.1 gallons/flush. Some toilets even have two buttons — one that delivers a 1.1 gallon/flush and another for 1.6 gallons/flush.”
Price: You can find low-flow toilets at places like Home Depot and Lowes for around $99.
Low-Flow Showerheads
Clark also recommends buying a low-flow showerhead. These work by blasting air to simulate a strong stream of water.
Price: You can find them for as low as $20 at Home Depot.
By making both of these purchases, the Department of Energy says that you can enjoy water savings of 25% to 60%. Have a tip of your own to share? Leave it in the comments section below!
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