Even a small drip can make a difference on your energy bill. Your water heater will operate more than necessary to keep the water hot.

Lower the Thermostat

Don't set the temperature of your water heater any higher than necessary. If you have a dishwasher, 140° is high enough. If not, 120° is plenty. Turn down water heater when away from home for a weekend.

Drain Sediment from Water Heater

Once or twice a year, drain a bucket of water out of the bottom of the heater tank. This will let out any sediment that has collected there. The sediment insulates the water in the tank from the burner's flame and that wastes energy.