When it comes to energy costs, water heating is hardly a drop in the bucket. In fact, water heating is the second largest energy user in apartment buildings, accounting for nearly 30% total consumption, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. If your properties are drowning in water heating costs, these five simple measures can help stop the flow.
- Adjust temperatures. Set water heater temperatures throughout your properties at 120°F for safe cleaning and laundering.
- Install water-efficient fixtures. WaterSense-labeled products, such as high-performance showerheads and faucet aerators, use water more efficiently while still providing a comfortable flow.
- Repair leaks. Leaky faucets and showers not only wastewater, but they also waste energy used to heat that water. A single leaky faucet dripping at the rate of one drip per second can waste more than 40 gallons a week!
- Insulate hot water lines. Insulate accessible hot water lines coming from the water heater tank. It’s an easy do-it-yourself project and pipe insulation is available at your local hardware store or DIY retailer.
- Take an ENERGY STAR® turn. Upgrade older clothes washers and dishwashers in your buildings with ENERGY STAR-rated appliances. They use less energy and water than standard models.
If water heaters are older or in need of repair, replace them with ENERGY STAR high-performance units. ENERGY STAR water heaters are more efficient than standard units.
For remodeling projects, consider tankless water heaters. They supply a continuous flow of hot water while avoiding the standby losses associated with tank units.