In Hawaii conventional electric water heaters generally account for the largest portion of the monthly electricity use in homes without air conditioning. These water heaters consume an estimated 260 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month for a family of four, costing roughly $60 on Oahu. Energy consumption varies depending on family size and hot water use.

If your water heater is more than ten years old, its efficiency is probably no higher than 80%. One way to reduce water-heating costs is to replace your old water heater with a new, more efficient model. Depending on your hot water requirements and the cost effectiveness of the system, you may want to consider a solar water heater, a heat pump water heater, or a high-efficiency electric water heater.

When selecting an electric water heater, be sure to read the yellow EnergyGuide Label posted on each model. The label estimates how much energy the model uses, compares the energy use of similar products, and lists the approximate annual operating costs.

Following are some tips for using electric water heaters:

• Repair hot-water leaks in plumbing and faucets. A leaking hot-water faucet not only wastes water, but up to 400 kWh per year. A broken hot-water pipe can cause extreme increases in electricity and water costs.
• Wrap older water heaters. Installing an insulation blanket around water heaters purchased before 2004 helps to conserve energy. To further reduce heat loss, insulate both water pipes leading out from the hot-water tank.
• Install water-saving showerheads or flow restrictors in older faucets. Flow restrictors reduce water flow by one to three gallons per minute.
• Set the water heater thermostat between 120° F and 125° F. Be sure to turn off the electricity to the water heater at the circuit breaker panel before adjusting the temperature.
• Take short, five-minute showers instead of tub baths.
• While washing and rinsing dishes by hand, close the drain and fill the sink rather than letting the water run.

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