Saving Water = Saving Energy + Money

Whether water is supplied by a private well or a municipal water system, it takes energy to move it from source, to storage, and to the end use. The less water consumed, the less energy needed to pump it.

The same goes for heated water—less consumed means less energy needed for heating. Turning down a water heater thermostat is one way to cut water heating costs and energy use. Each 10°F reduction in water temperature can shave 3 to 5 percent off water heating costs. Temperatures can be set as low as 115°F, providing adequate hot water for uses such as hand dishwashing, showering, and bathing. Laundering clothes in cold water can also save energy. Implementing hot water conservation strategies before you size a solar hot water system for your home can save money on a system’s costs.

Water conservation techniques save money too, particularly in homes served by a public water utility. Conserving water saves on water and sewer bills, which often include both a fixed charge and a per-gallon charge, such as $2.80 per 1,000 gallons of water. Although this charge might seem trivial, conserving water can provide excellent financial savings over the long term.