Lowering the Cost of Hot Water

Each year, the average household pays $500 to heat its hot water. You can lower this cost, without resorting to cold showers.

The key is to heat water more efficiently and use less of it. Fixing leaks can save up to 700 litres of water per month. Washing clothes in cold water can save hundreds of litres of hot water annually, and many of today's detergents are just as effective in cold water. Insulating your hot water tank and the first three metres of both hot and cold pipes will mean your hot water stays hot longer.

Peter Geddes, an energy efficiency expert with Clean Nova Scotia, says many of us spend more money on hot water than we need to.

"Homeowners need to examine their use of hot water and make sure they're using it wisely," he said. "Dishwashers shouldn't be run until there's a full load. Low-flow faucets and shower heads should be installed. Paying extra attention to how we use hot water can result in real savings all year long."

For more ideas on saving heat this winter, call Home Energy Action Tips toll-free at 1-866-488-HEAT (4328) or on the web, visit heatinfo@gov.ns.ca .