It's Easy Being Green: Getting in Hot Water

There are lots of other ways to save money on your water usage. By now, you know to take a shower instead of a bath (you’ll save about 50 percent of the water), to turn off the water when you’re brushing your teeth, and to run full loads, whether you’re doing the dishes or the laundry. But Kathleen Kuhn, CEO of HouseMaster Home Inspections, says that there are other easy fixes for do-it-yourselfers. “The least handy person can install water saving showerheads and faucets,” says Kuhn, “and save thousands of gallons of water a year.” All the parts you need are available at your local hardware store, or order the Niagara Water Conservation Kit at niagaraconservation.com for under twenty-five bucks. Kuhn also recommends turning the thermostat on your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. “That’s still hot, but it saves a lot of money heating the water,” she says. Save even more by purchasing an insulating wrap for your water heater, and wrap it around the tank.

Heating and cooling are a huge percent of your home's energy costs. Don't worry, we'll give you tips on "keeping cool" and saving big tomorrow.


Article by Sandy Wieber, SVP Marketing, MidAtlantic Farm Credit