ENERGY SAVING TIP #2 (Hot Water)

Hot water typically consumes about 20% of a household’s energy [1;2]. With the festive season upon us; and lots of people coming over to our homes; we are sure that this figure will rise :). How can we save on hot water energy consumption?

1. Geyser- the biggest consumer of hot water from the geysers is bathing water. One place to start at is simply just REDUCTION of those shower times.. stop planning; calculating and fantasising in the shower cubicle. You are using energy!! If users reduce time spent in the shower it makes a huge difference to the energy bill. An interesting study found that if two people spend a minute less in the shower they could save up to US$30 per year worth of energy!! [3]

-Another way to save energy from geyser is to reduce energy losses by insulating hot water pipes; fixing leaking geyser tanks; fixing leaking taps and other faucets that carry/discharge hot water.

-For smarter ways; you can introduce timers and sensors to your hot water system to increase efficiency and reduce energy losses

And of-course on geysers we encourage you to just go solar!!

2. Hot Water Boiler/Kettles- When you want to boil water for that quick cup or two of coffee/tea there are ways of saving energy as well. DO NOT fill up the whole kettle with water when you just need a cup or 2 of hot water.

Energy consumption is directly proportional to the amount of water you heat up so by filling up the kettle with excess water that you don’t need to use you are basically wasting energy

3. Heating up Water in a pot for cooking-

When boiling or heating water in a pot for cooking; ensure that you use a pot or vessel that conducts heat energy well. The most common pots/vessels for this are Aluminium pots and pans. These convey energy from the stove surface to the pot contents in quick time thus saving energy and/or gas. Also ensure that; wherever possible; the pot or vessel lid is on to reduce losses of heat to the atmosphere.

For FREE tips on Energy Optimisation of your system please do get in touch with our Engineers

Sources:

1.https://www.directenergy.com/learning-center/how-much-energy-water-heater-use

2. https://homeguides.sfgate.com/much-hot-water-heater-affect-electric-bill-88704.html

3. Energy savings (bchydro.com)

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About Author:

Lovewell Chitiyo is a Mechanical Engineer with 15 years experience in the building services Engineering consultancy, renewable energy systems and sustainable design fields. He is currently studying Masters in Renewable Energy at Stellenbosch University in South Africa

Lovewell is an Accredited Professional with the Green Building Council of South Africa for Existing Buildings Performance and New Buildings; Interiors, holding several qualifications and certification in Renewable Energy and Sustainability.

Lovewell also has vast experience in design, supervision, installation and commissioning of several projects locally and regionally in the last 15 years.