Reducing hot water use saves energy because your hot water heater has less work to do. Recent research has shown that on average about 78% of the water used through residential faucets is hot water (DeOreo, et. al. 2001). To the extent that you can reduce bath water use, you can also reduce energy consumption.

Below are some tips to maximize efficiency in your bathtub:

• Only fill the bathtub as much as you need. Bathing babies and small children requires much less water and it is often easier to bathe small babies in a sink.

• Make sure that your bathtub drain plug doesn’t leak. Replace the plug or plug washer if necessary.

• Replace the tub diverter valve (that routes water to the shower) if it leaks.

Photo source: Plumbing Supply, Accessed
September 24, 2003, by permission.