Where Does Your Hot Water Go?

The heating of water for washing laundry, dishes and ourselves is the second largest energy user in our homes. For most households, the energy used to heat water can be reduced by 25 to 50 percent through practicing conservation methods:

• Faucets & Shower – consume about 48 percent of household hot water. Consider installing a low-flow shower head and faucet aerators to reduce water flow by 40 percent or more.
• Clothes Washer & Dishwasher – consume about 40 percent of household hot water. Try a front-loading washing machine and use 40 percent less water. An energy efficient dishwasher with a booster heater will allow you to lower the temperature on your hot water tank and still get those dishes clean.
• Baths – consume about 12% of household hot water. A 5 minute shower will use about half as much hot water as filling the tub.

From a financial perspective, reducing your hot water consumption will:

• Reduce your natural gas utility bill
• Reduce the water use charge on your utility bill
• Reduce the sanitary sewer charge on your utility bill

Remember, water is not an inexhaustible resource. Use water wisely!

More information is available from The City of Calgary