Get a grip on your hot water system load

For many households, hot water is second only to transport as the largest cause of greenhouse gas emissions. Electric or gas water heating accounts for about 30 percent of an average household's total greenhouse gas emissions and about the same proportion of total household energy use. More than half of hot water use is in the bathroom, a third in the laundry and the remainder in the kitchen.

Tip for hot water energy saving:

• If you have an electric or gas hot water system, reduce your thermostat to low (min. 60degC)
• Consider upgrading to a solar hot water system (considerable incentives available through our Residential program)
• Reduce the amount of hot water used in the home by installing a low-flow showerhead (less than 9L/min)
• If you have a solar hot water system, ensure the booster is only used when you need it. (Many people will leave the booster on in winter, which means the system will be using energy late at night when you may not need it.)
• Install a "one-shot" switch or timer to keep the booster usage to a minimum