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Water Wise

Shrink the power bill in hot water

Around 21% of a households energy use can come from heating water. Using less hot water is a simple and easy way to reduce energy costs. Installing WELS rated water efficient showerheads and taps can make a big difference to your hot water costs. The less you use the less you pay.

Plan ahead

Check the age of your hot water system and make a plan for an energy efficient and cheap to run hot water system before yours gives up.

Shorter showers

A shorter shower challenge is a fun way to teach children the importance of saving water and energy. To make taking shorter showers fun, use a shower timer and challenge the family to a shorter shower challenge. This can reduce your energy costs as less water will need to be heated. It is an easy thing to do but will have a big impact on your bill.

The Goldilocks temperature, not too hot, not too cold

The Goldilocks – ‘just right’ temperature for a storage hot water system is 60°C. Any lower may allow harmful bacteria to flourish; higher will use energy unnecessarily. Continuous hot water systems should be set at no higher than 50°C. This will lower your running costs and extend your system's life.

One cup or two?

Don’t boil more water than you need, boiling water uses a lot of energy and filling up a kettle for one cup can be costly. Use a mug to fill the kettle, that way you always have the right amount and you can enjoy that cup of tea much sooner.

Install a heat pump hot water system

Heat pump hot water systems run on electricity but are around three times more efficient than a conventional electric water heater. They sit on the ground so don't require roof space.

They make a low humming sound similar to an air conditioner which should be taken into account when deciding on their location.

  • Use much less electricity than conventional electric water heaters
  • Ground-mounted so no need for roof space or roof strengthening
  • Installation costs are generally cheaper compared to a solar water heater
  • Can operate in most climates but are most efficient in hot and humid conditions