Multifamily: 5 Ways to Lower Water Heating Costs

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.

  1. Adjust temperatures. Set water heater temperatures throughout your properties at 120°F for safe cleaning and laundering.
  2. Install water-efficient fixturesWaterSense-labeled products, such as low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators, use water more efficiently while still providing a comfortable flow.
  3. Repair leaks. Leaky faucets and showers not only waste water, they also waste the 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!
  4. 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.
  5. 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.