Hot water at home

Hot water accounts for on average 20%*, or one fifth, of your home’s energy use. Although it may not be possible to change the way your water is heated, there are lots of ways to make the most of it by changing when and how often it’s used.

The water in your home may be heated as part of your oil or gas fired central heating system, by electricity in an immersion tank, or directly by an instant electric shower or under sink heater. Whatever system you have, it’s possible to set and use it in a way that makes the most of the energy used, and minimises any heat or energy that might go to waste.

* SEAI 2020

If you find your water is flowing too quickly, there may be ways you can slow it down, such as fitting flow restrictors.

To find out how you can make savings on your hot water, see pages 15 – 18 of our guide to 100 Ways to Save Energy at Home.