
Hi this is Kim with SaveOnEnergy, here to answer your energy savings questions. Today's question comes from Kris in Marietta, GA, who ask 20Your hot water heater uses a lot of energy. Usually, it's second only to your heating and air conditioning systems. Remember, you use it for showers, cooking, the dishwasher and the washing machine. The hot water heater is also on all the time, so saving energy can save you a lot of money. Most heaters are preset to 140 degrees. Turning it down to 120 can save you 6-10%. If you have an older water heater, wrap it with an insulating blanket or jacket. If your hot water heater is warm to the touch, insulation can increase it's efficiency. You can pick up one of these for only about $20 at your local hardware store. If you're thinking about getting a new water heater, here are a couple things to remember. An 80 gallon tank works well for a 3 or 4 bedroom house, but if you have a smaller home, a 40 gallon tank may be all that you need. Appliances with this certification have met strict Department of Energy guidelines so you know that they'll be more efficient. For more energy saving tips for your home, visit SaveOnEnergy.com or send us your energy savings questions. See you next time!