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While performing an energy audit this month, I washed my hands at the client's home and noticed that the faucet, a single handled mixing valve type, was set for hot water. During the 30 seconds that I washed my hands (a short draw of hot water), the hot water never reached the faucet. What happened is this: a gallon of hot water was drawn from the hot water heater and this was replaced with a gallon of cold water, which cools down the hot water heater, causing it to begin heating the water.

Because I finished washing my hands before the hot water reached the faucet, the short hot water draw was a complete waste of energy. Short draws of hot water can add up, especially if you have a large household. Tankless water heaters waste even more energy with short hot water draws. Most people who have a single handle mixing valve type faucet leave it in the middle position, which draws hot water every time, whether you want it or not.

If you want to maximize your energy efficiency, turn the faucet handle so it is 100% cold water, and when you want hot water, turn it to 100% hot water until it arrives, then mix it to the desired temperature. You can also replace the faucet with nice two handled types.

Many homes have long plumbing runs with sharp bends, and it can take some time for hot water to arrive at the fixture. A classic energy wasting behavior in these homes is that occupants will let the shower run for many minutes before using it, wasting water and energy. If this is your situation, here are a couple of solutions: 1) If possible, move hot water heater to central location or as close to hot water fixtures as possible. 2) Install a recirculation pump. I like the Metlund recirculation pump because you only turn it on when you need to (unlike other timer controlled pumps) and the plumbing is easier.

Please feel free to call me to discuss energy conservation strategies for new homes and remodels, or schedule a home energy audit: 10% off for FOCUS members. Glen Inouye (209) 293-7702