Reduce hot water energy with low-flow fixtures and insulation

Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators to cut hot water use without noticeably reducing pressure. Set your water heater thermostat to 120°F (49°C) and insulate the tank and exposed hot water pipes to minimize heat loss.

Why It Works

Water heating is typically the second-largest energy expense in a home. Low-flow fixtures reduce the volume of water heated, while insulation and a lower thermostat setting prevent energy from being wasted on standby heat loss. Together, these changes can cut water heating costs by 20-30%.

Tips

• Fix leaky faucets promptly; a drip of one drop per second wastes over 1,600 gallons per year
• Shorter showers (5 minutes or less) compound savings with low-flow fixtures
• Check your water heater manufacturer's guidance before adding an insulation blanket to newer models