Hot water savings

Soak up the savings

Try these inexpensive projects for significant hot water savings and get the best value for
your investment with our buying tips.

Is your current showerhead actually energy efficient?

Try this simple flow test: Open an empty 2 litre cardboard milk carton and hold it up to the shower while it’s fully on. If it fills in less than 10 seconds, it is not energy efficient, and you should consider replacing it to save you more.

Install a new energy efficient showerhead

• The costs from replacing your showerhead usually result in energy savings in less than one year after installation. Look for features likespray adjustments, spray pattern and coverage, forcefulness, quiet operation and ease of cleaning
• This can reduce hot water use by up to 30% and can save over 28,000 litres per year
• Taking shorter showers can save both energy and water. Two people could save over $30 per year by shortening their shower by only one minute each

Keep the insulating tank cover clear

• Be sure to keep the insulating tank cover clear of the air inlet for burners and the temperature controls
• If you rent a hot water tank, check the rental agreement and consult your retailer before making any changes

Insulate your pipes

• Insulate at least the few metres of pipe leading to and from the hot water tank with tape wrap or snap-on foam pipe tubing
• If your hot water pipes run through sections of your home that aren’t heated, insulate them too
• Plastic pipes should not be wrapped, the extra heat might soften them

Shopping for a new dishwasher or washing machine?

• Save more by researching brands and reading the EnerGuide label to discover the best energy efficient model for your needs. The lower the kWh rating, the better the efficiency
• Appliances may last years, but the cost to run them each year can add up to more than the initial purchase price. Use the EnerGuide label to shop energy efficient appliances and save you more in the long run