How to Save Hot Water at Home and Cut Energy Costs

Heating water uses a lot of energy at home. It is often the second-largest energy expense after heating and cooling. A few smart changes can noticeably reduce hot water use, saving money and helping protect the environment.

How can I use less hot water every day?

The easiest ways to save start with your daily habits. You do not need expensive upgrades, just a little awareness.

Make your showers more efficient

Cut your shower time by just one minute. With a standard shower head, that can save around 15 litres of hot water. You can also turn the temperature down a little. Every degree lower saves energy.

Use cold water when washing your hands. It is perfectly adequate for cleaning. Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth or lathering up.

Save water with household appliances

Run your dishwasher and washing machine only when they are full. Choose the Eco cycle whenever possible. It washes at lower temperatures and uses less water while still cleaning effectively.

The average household can save up to 30% of its hot water use through mindful habits and efficient technology. The savings can show up directly on your utility bill.

Do not pre-rinse dishes under running hot water. Remove large food scraps with a brush or knife. For stubborn dirt, try a cleaning brush.

Why does your water heater matter so much?

How you heat and distribute water affects your energy use. Hidden heat losses often occur in the system.

Set the temperature and circulation

Set your water heater to a maximum of 60°C. This is high enough to kill legionella bacteria while helping save energy. Avoid higher settings.

A circulation pump keeps water warm as it moves through the pipes. This is convenient, but it uses energy continuously. Use a timer to turn off the pump when you do not need hot water, such as overnight.

Prevent heat loss with insulation

Insulate all accessible hot water pipes in your home. Otherwise, they can lose heat, especially in cold basements or unheated adjoining rooms. Pipe insulation is one of the most effective ways to save energy.

Your water heater can also benefit from insulation. A thick insulating cover can significantly reduce standby heat loss. Check regularly that the insulation is in good condition.

Up to 15% of the energy used to heat water can be lost through uninsulated pipes and water heaters. Professional insulation can often pay for itself in the first heating season.

Which products can help lower costs?

Small investments in specialized products can pay off through long-term savings.

Water meters help you track usage

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Single-jet apartment hot water meter QN 1,5/ R 1/2"/ 110 mm

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Single-jet apartment hot water meter QN 1,5/ R 1/2"/ 80 mm

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Aerators are small screens fitted to the end of a faucet. They mix air into the water, creating a fuller stream while using less water. Replace old aerators that are covered in mineral buildup.

Save water outdoors

You rarely need hot water in the garden. Use collected rainwater or cold tap water for watering. The garden can account for a large share of household water use.

For occasional outdoor showers, a solar-powered shower is a practical option. It uses free energy from the sun. A

Transparent cover 3x4m (12m²) - mesh sheet, tear-resistant, UV-resistant

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How can I track my water-saving progress?

Without tracking your usage, saving water can feel like a vague goal. Use specific numbers to measure your progress.

Check your usage regularly

Read your water and heating bills carefully. Compare your usage with previous years. Look for “kilowatt-hours” for water heating. This shows your energy use directly.

Record your meter reading during the first few weeks after making a change. You will see its immediate effect, which can help you stay motivated.

Plan for long-term improvements

If you are planning an upgrade, consider whether a point-of-use tankless water heater would be a good fit. It heats water only when needed and prevents heat loss in the pipes. This can be especially effective when pipes run a long distance.

Check the condition of your entire plumbing system. Old pipes and appliances with mineral buildup work less efficiently. Replacing specific components can significantly reduce overall energy use. If you are unsure, ask a plumbing professional for advice.

Start today with one simple change. Every litre of hot water you save helps reduce your energy use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What temperature should hot water be?

Set the storage tank to 60°C. This temperature reliably prevents the growth of Legionella bacteria, which can be hazardous to your health. Lower temperatures do save energy, but they pose a hygiene risk. A night-time setback or holiday mode can save additional energy.

Does a water-saving shower head really save energy?

Yes, a water-saving shower head significantly reduces the water flow, often from 12-15 to 6-9 litres per minute. This can save up to 50% of hot water and the energy needed to heat it, without noticeably affecting comfort. The investment usually pays for itself within a year.

How can I optimize my heating system?

Insulate all accessible hot water pipes and the storage tank itself. Use a timer to set the circulation pump to run only during your main usage times. Check the flow temperature and lower it if possible. Regular maintenance keeps efficiency high.

What are the benefits of a hot water meter in an apartment?

A separate water meter for hot water makes your consumption visible. This raises awareness and encourages you to save. In apartment buildings, it enables usage-based billing, which is fairer and directly rewards saving.

Can I save hot water in the garden?

Yes. Use collected rainwater or cold tap water to water the garden. A solar-powered garden shower heats the water for free using the sun. Cover a pool with a cover to reduce heat loss.