Water heating is the second largest energy expense in your home, and it typically accounts for about 20 percent of your utility bill. The University of Alabama’s Greg McKelvey offers several ways to help reduce your water costs.
- Install aerating, low-flow faucets and showerheads.
- Draining a gallon of water from your water heater tank every six months will remove sediment that impedes heat transfer and will increase the efficiency of your water heater.
- If you have an electric water heater, install a timer that automatically turns the hot water off at night and back on in the morning. A simple timer can pay for itself in less than a year.
- Insulate your water heater tank with an insulating blanket specifically designed for water heaters. The blankets generally have an R-value of 4.5 and fit easily around the tank. Check the water heater label first; do not insulate the tank if the manufacturer advises against it.
McKelvey is the director of HVAC and Energy Management for UA-Facilities.
