Energy-Saving Plumbing Tips | Lower Your Water & Heating Bills

Inspect Pipes Annually

You should examine your distribution and drainage pipes for signs of leaks each year. You may find clues that your pipes are leaking along the length of the pipe or around fittings or fixtures. Signs of leaks may include rust, corrosion, and mineral deposits.

You’ll also want to check the insulation of your hot water pipes periodically and replace any open or damaged areas of insulation. Another plumbing tip includes replacing aerators on faucets several times each year.

Inspect Your Septic Tank Periodically

This plumbing tip requires that you check your septic tank every three to five years to determine the level of scum and solids on the surface of the tank. The tank should be cleaned if the level of scum exceeds one half of the depth of the water in the tank.

Furnaces/Heating

Clean or replace the furnace filter once a month to keep it operating efficiently. A clogged filter impedes furnace performance.

• Have a licensed HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) professional service your furnace yearly to ensure it is operating at maximum efficiency.
• Insulate heating ducts that travel through unheated areas of your home to prevent heat loss.
• When buying a new furnace, look for the most energy-efficient model you can find.

More

Set the furnace fan switch on “automatic” instead of “on” or “continuous”.

• Use weather stripping and door sweeps to seal doors and reduce drafts.
• Apply caulking and weather-stripping around drafty doors and windows to keep the cold out. No drafts mean a more comfortable home.
• Close off air registers in any unused areas or rooms.
• Keep warm-air registers, baseboard heaters and radiators clean unblocked.