Water, Window, & Doors

  • Add energy-efficient showerheads and faucet aerators
    These can reduce the amount of water released from a tap by up to 50%, which means less hot water to be heated.
  • Heat water to the right temperature
    The recommended temperature is 120°F (49°C).
  • Repair leaks at once
    A dripping faucet can waste 6 to 10 gallons (23 to 38 liters) of water a day. Replace worn-out washers.
  • Insulate hot and cold water pipes
    If pipes are exposed beneath your home insulate them with special pipe-insulating foam, or tape a standard insulation blanket around them. Keep cold pipes from freezing and hot pipes hot.
  • Turn your water heater off when you're on vacation
    If you plan to be away for more than five days turn your water heater off. Post a reminder to turn it on when returning.
  • Use drapes to insulate
    Keep drapes closed to keep warm air in. Open drapes to allow the sun's rays to help warm rooms.
  • Take a shower instead of a bath
    The average bath uses twice as much hot water as a 5-minute shower.
  • Turn faucets off when not using hot water
    Running water non-stop during shaving or brushing teeth is wasteful. Turn on the faucet when necessary and save thousands of gallons of water a year plus the energy needed to heat it.
  • Apply weather stripping to stop drafts around doors and windows
    Install draft guards (available at most hardware stores) beneath doors. Add weather stripping to windows and door frames.
  • Caulk smaller gaps
    Many homes have cracks and leaks that are equal to a 2 feet by 2 feet open window.
  • Double insulate windows
    Storm windows are an effective energy saver for leaky windows. An economical alternative is plastic sheeting.