We all love a good hot shower, especially on a cold morning—but have you ever stopped to think about how much energy goes into heating that water? Hot water is one of the biggest energy consumers in Australian homes, and with a few simple changes, you can cut your energy bill and your environmental footprint.
Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord or just someone who wants to live a little greener, these hot water energy-saving tips will make a big difference without compromising on comfort.
How Much Energy Does Hot Water Use in Homes?
Hot water heating accounts for a substantial chunk of household energy use: 21% on average in Australian homes. Depending on the size of your household and the type of hot water system you have, your usage could be even higher. Older systems are less efficient, so you’re using more energy and paying higher energy bills.
Switching to energy-efficient practices, including upgrading to an energy-saving hot water system, doesn’t just help the environment; it saves you money. With energy costs on the rise, cutting down on your hot water usage will make a noticeable difference to your hip pocket over time.
Top Energy-Saving Hot Water Tips
Turn Down the Water Heater
One of the easiest ways to save energy is to simply turn down the thermostat on your water heater. Far too many water heaters are set too high, often around 60 to 70°C. By turning the temperature down a simple 10°C to 50°C, you’ll cut your energy usage without even noticing the heat loss in your daily showers; we promise!
Water Saving Showerheads and Faucets
Switching to a water-saving showerhead and faucet is a no-brainer when it comes to energy savings. These fixtures use less water without sacrificing pressure, so you’ll still enjoy your showers while using a lot less water and energy.
Take Shorter Showers
Okay, we know it’s hard to resist standing under the hot water for ages, but short showers can make a big difference in water heating costs. Reducing your time by just a few minutes will have a big impact on your water and energy bill. Set a timer for five minutes and resist the urge to ignore it when it goes off.
Insulate Your Water Heater and Pipes
Heat loss is a silent energy thief. Insulating your water heater and any exposed pipes helps retain the heat, so your system doesn’t have to work so hard to maintain the water temperature. You’ll be using less energy to get the same result.
Upgrade to an Energy Efficient Hot Water System
If your current hot water system is getting old, it’s probably time to consider an upgrade. Modern hot water systems are designed to use energy more efficiently, making them an eco-friendly choice that will also save on running costs.
Cold Water is Gold Water
Whether you’re washing dishes, scrubbing clothes, or even taking a shower in summer, try to use cold water where possible or at least ensure your appliances are energy-efficient models. Remember, small changes do add up over time.
Timing
They say timing is everything, and this couldn’t be truer when it comes to saving on water costs. Try to only use your washing machine and dishwasher during off-peak energy hours, if you can. This is especially important for those with solar power, where running appliances during daylight hours allows you to take full advantage of the free energy your system generates. Some energy providers in Australia offer time or use tariffs, which charge lower rates during off-peak periods.
Hot Water System Maintenance for Better Efficiency
While this often gets overlooked by many households, regular system maintenance of your hot water unit is key to keeping your hot water system running at peak performance. Regular maintenance checks, like flushing your storage tank and checking for leaks or worn parts, will keep your system in tip-top condition. It will also be a good indicator of when it may be time to upgrade and find a more energy-efficient replacement.
You can maintain your hot system for energy efficiency by following these steps:
1. Flushing the tank. Over time, sediment can build up inside your water heater tank, making it less efficient. Flushing it annually helps remove buildup and ensures your system is operating at its best.
2. Checking Insulation. Insulating both your tank and pipes reduces heat loss, meaning your water heater doesn’t need to work as hard to keep the water hot. This small change can lead to noticeable energy savings.
3. Inspecting for Leaks. Small leaks can result in significant energy loss over time. Regularly check for leaks in the system and have them repaired promptly to avoid wasted water and increased costs.
Considering Solar Hot Water Systems
Switching to a solar hot water system can drastically reduce your energy consumption and carbon footprint. Solar systems use free, renewable energy from the sun, and in sunny parts of Australia, they can provide up to 90% of your hot water needs. While the upfront costs are higher, the long-term savings make solar an attractive option for homeowners looking to cut bills and reduce environmental impact. Plus, there are various government rebates and incentives available to make the transition even more affordable.
If you’re ready to explore more energy-efficient hot water solutions, visit Same Day Hot Water or give us a call on 1300 721 996. Our team of experts can help you choose the right system for your home and ensure its installed quickly and professionally. Don’t wait to start saving on energy costs. Contact us today to get started.