Energy-Efficient Plumbing: How to Save Money in the New Year

As we step into the new year, many homeowners are looking for ways to save money and be more environmentally conscious. One area where you can make a big difference is with your plumbing system. Energy-efficient plumbing not only helps lower your utility bills but also reduces your environmental footprint. Whether you're looking to upgrade your appliances or tweak your daily habits, there are several simple steps you can take to start saving money on water and energy right away.

1. Install Low-Flow Fixtures

One of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce water consumption—and consequently, energy use—is by installing low-flow fixtures. These include low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets, all of which use significantly less water without compromising performance.

Why It Matters

Water heating is one of the most energy-intensive household activities. When you reduce the amount of hot water used, you automatically cut down on the energy required to heat it. A low-flow showerhead, for instance, can reduce water usage by up to 50%, making a noticeable difference in both water and energy bills.

What You Can Do

• Replace old showerheads and faucets with water-efficient versions that have the WaterSense label. These fixtures are designed to use 20% less water than standard models.

• Consider replacing older, high-water-usage toilets with high-efficiency models. Modern toilets use as little as 1.28 gallons per flush, compared to the 3.5–7 gallons of older models.

2. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Water Heater

Water heaters are among the biggest energy consumers in most homes. Upgrading to an energy-efficient model can result in long-term savings and improved performance.

Why It Matters

Traditional water heaters with tanks can be inefficient because they constantly heat and reheat water, even when it's not in use. Energy-efficient models, such as tankless or heat pump water heaters, only use energy when needed, offering both energy and space savings.

What You Can Do

• If your water heater is over 10 years old, consider replacing it with a tankless water heater. These systems provide hot water on demand, so you're not wasting energy heating a full tank of water.

• Another option is a heat pump water heater. These units use electricity to move heat from the air or ground to heat water, which is much more energy-efficient than traditional electric water heaters.

• If a full replacement isn’t in your budget, you can also improve your current water heater’s efficiency by adding insulation around the tank and pipes to reduce heat loss.

3. Fix Leaks Quickly

Leaky faucets and running toilets may seem like minor inconveniences, but they can add up to a significant waste of both water and energy. A dripping faucet can waste hundreds of gallons of water per year, and a constantly running toilet can waste thousands.

Why It Matters

Leaky fixtures waste hot water, which means your water heater has to work harder to reheat the lost water, increasing your energy consumption. By fixing leaks promptly, you ensure that your plumbing system is running as efficiently as possible.

What You Can Do

• Check for leaks around your faucets, pipes, and toilets. If you hear water running or notice water stains around your plumbing, address the issue immediately.

• For faucets, replacing worn-out washers or seals is usually an easy fix. For toilets, check the flapper valve to ensure it seals properly when the toilet isn’t in use.

• If you're unsure where the leak is coming from, consider calling a plumber to inspect your system and prevent further water and energy waste.

4. Use Hot Water Wisely

Hot water is an essential part of daily life, but it can also be a major drain on your energy bill. Being mindful of how much hot water you use—and how you use it—can help you save both water and energy.

Why It Matters

Heating water accounts for a significant portion of your home’s energy use. By adjusting your hot water usage habits, you can reduce the strain on your water heater and lower your energy bills.

What You Can Do

• Take shorter showers and try to limit the number of times you run your dishwasher or laundry machine. Only run these appliances with full loads to maximize efficiency.

• Set your water heater temperature to 120°F. This is hot enough for most household tasks and helps prevent overheating, which can waste energy.

• Consider installing a water heater timer. This allows you to schedule when your water heater is running, ensuring that it only operates when you need it.

5. Insulate Your Pipes

Another easy way to reduce energy consumption is by insulating your water pipes. This is especially important for pipes that are located in unheated areas of the home, such as basements, crawl spaces, or attics.

Why It Matters

When your water pipes are exposed to cold air, the water inside can cool down before it reaches your faucet, forcing your water heater to work harder to heat the water back up. Insulating your pipes keeps the water hotter for longer and reduces the strain on your water heater.

What You Can Do

• Purchase foam pipe insulation sleeves or wraps and install them around exposed hot water pipes. This is a quick and affordable way to ensure your water stays hot, reducing energy waste.

• If you live in a particularly cold area, consider using pipe insulation specifically designed to prevent freezing. This will not only improve energy efficiency but also prevent burst pipes during the winter months.

6. Install a Water Softener

Hard water can lead to mineral buildup in your pipes, appliances, and fixtures, which can decrease the efficiency of your plumbing system over time. Installing a water softener helps reduce these mineral deposits and can improve the longevity of your plumbing.

Why It Matters

When mineral buildup occurs, your water heater has to work harder to heat water. Additionally, appliances like dishwashers and washing machines can become less efficient. A water softener removes minerals like calcium and magnesium, improving the overall efficiency of your system.

What You Can Do

• Install a water softener to prevent scale buildup and ensure your plumbing system runs smoothly. This will reduce the amount of energy needed to heat your water.

• Regularly clean your water softener to ensure it continues to operate efficiently and provide you with the best results.

7. Consider a Smart Water System

Smart home technology has come a long way, and water systems are no exception. Smart water systems allow you to monitor your water usage, detect leaks, and even schedule when certain appliances run, all from the convenience of your smartphone.

Why It Matters

By tracking your water usage and identifying inefficiencies, a smart water system can help you make adjustments that save both water and energy. Some smart systems also allow you to shut off your water remotely, which can prevent costly leaks or flooding.

What You Can Do

• Install a smart water meter or leak detection system. These systems can alert you to unusual water usage, helping you identify and address issues quickly before they turn into bigger problems.

• Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat or smart water heater that allows you to control your water temperature from your phone or schedule heating times based on your needs.

Final Thoughts

With the new year just beginning, it’s the perfect time to start saving money and energy with a few easy plumbing upgrades and habits. From installing low-flow fixtures to upgrading to an energy-efficient water heater, there are plenty of ways to reduce your environmental footprint while lowering your utility bills. By taking the time to make these small changes, you can enjoy the benefits of a more energy-efficient plumbing system all year long.