When it comes to getting your water heating "Just Right" the first thing to do in addressing any energy waste is to look over your existing system from beginning to end. Locating the pipe that comes from your supply of water. From there to your water heater and continue to your points of use i.e. kitchen sink, laundry room, bathroom(s)and dishwasher.

In the cooler climates, eliminating the distance your water supply pipe is exposed to the open air by running it twelve inches or more below the surface of the ground will not only keep it from freezing but keep the water at a higher temperature because of the insulating factors of the soil.

Insulating your hot water pipes will help prevent heat loss of hot water sitting in the pipe between uses. It is easy to install and works great.

Appliances are now required to provide an Energy Star label showing you what you can save. You can choose from a selection of energy efficient appliances. Some are more effecient than others. If you have an older unit that is not Energy star rated you are wasting a lot of unnecessary energy and money. It does pay to be efficient.

Wether your appliance uses oil, gas or electric you will save even more money and energy using an insulating blanket. These are available online, in hardware stores and building supply stores.

Next is to look at solar. It makes sense to put to good use the heat from our sun to increase the temperature of your water, provided you live in a warmer climate. Check with your local solar company to see if this makes sense for you.

There are some exciting news in advanced uses of solar technology that will increase the temperature of H2O. Subscribe to my Newsletter "Solar Today Tomorrow and Beyond" and stay informed.