Have your energy bills been astronomical? Do you want to save more money? Are you tired of being on such a tight budget? Good news! You can save, loosen those budget strings, and keep warm this winter without sacrificing comfort!
Now, we have all heard the typical cut-back-on-your-indulgent-hot-water-usage-in-order-to-save-on-your-energy-bills speech, and it does not seem to get us anywhere. We still want to take a long hot shower after a hard day at the office, and we are always going to prefer to wash our dishes in the dishwasher as opposed to by hand.
So, instead, I am going to share some cost saving tips that you might not be aware of without asking you to start timing your showers! All you need to do is get familiar with the 4 main hot water spots in your home: faucets, showers, dishwashers, and washing machines.
Faucets, Showers, Dishwashers, & Washing Machines.
Faucets: A leaking faucet or shower with one drip per second can cost about $1 per month. If you have more than one leak, or many, you are wasting a lot of unnecessary money as a leak is very easy to fix, and does not take a lot of time!
Showers: Replacing your high-flow showerhead with a low-flow one can save significant amounts of hot water, such as reducing hot water use for bathing by 30%! Although a low-flow showerhead delivers less water than a standard one, the spray can still be very refreshing.
Dishwashers: It is a common assumption that washing dishes by hand will save hot water. But, if you are washing dishes by hand several times a day this is not the case. Save money by washing one load once a day, whether by hand or automatic dishwasher. And, if you are in the market for a new dishwasher, compare the EnergyGuide labels to figure out the yearly energy costs among brands. Also, choose a dishwasher with cycle selections. Washing your dishes for a shorter amount of time can get the dishes washed just fine, and save energy and money.
Washing machines: Like dishwashers, about 90% of the cost is associated with the energy needed to heat water. Unlike dishwashers, you can wash your clothes in cold water which can clean and rinse clothes just as well. Also, you will want to make sure your dishwasher is efficient as it can cost three times more to operate if it’s not. As you would for dishwashers, consult the EnergyGuide labels when shopping for a new one. If you are lucky enough to find a front-loading machine (they are not that common in the US) buy it! They use less water that top loading washing machines.
And of course, the typical rules still apply if you want to cut back costs: turn the hot water off while you’re brushing your teeth, face, or shaving. Check for any leaks in your plumbing as well, and if you’re in Denver, Denver plumbing experts can help you fix them! For more information about Denver plumbing experts visit our website now!
