Energy efficient tips

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How can I make my existing system more energy efficient?

• Insulate the hot water pipes for the first couple of metres.
• Turn the thermostat down to 60ºC. A thermostat set at 80ºC can waste significant amounts of energy and money.
• Install AAA showerheads where appropriate (talk to your plumber about this). AAA is a water efficiency rating: these showerheads give a great shower and use less water.
• If the hot water cylinder is outside, protect it from the weather or think about moving it inside.

Some handy hints for reducing your use of hot water

• If possible wash clothes in cold water, otherwise adjust the level of hot water to the size of your wash.
• Only run your dishwasher with a full load.
• Never rinse dirty dishes or utensils under the running hot water tap.
• Fix any leaking hot water fixtures, hot water taps and mixer taps.
• If your dishwasher is fitted with only one hose inlet, attach it to the cold water tap. The dishwasher itself will heat the water for the washing cycle and will rinse with cold. Used carefully, a dishwasher can use less hot water than washing and rinsing your dishes after each meal!
• In the bathroom don’t allow hot water to run down the sink as you wash, shave or clean your teeth
• Step out of the shower earlier. If you spend more than 10 minutes in the shower it may be cheaper to have a bath.
• Use cold water to fill the jug, rinse clothes or dishes.
• Switch off your hot water system when you go on holiday for more than a week.

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