Cooler Water, Lower Energy Costs

Does your energy bill make you hot under the collar?

Most people don't realize that heating water for showers, dishwashers and other purposes accounts for some 15 percent of their energy costs.

But, in The Early Show's continuing series "Recession-Proofing Your Life" comes word that there's an easy, free, way to reduce those costs.

Manufacturers often set water heater thermostats at 140 degrees Fahrenheit. But, your water will still be plenty hot if the thermostat is set at 120.

Lowering the setting from 140 to 120 could cut your energy costs by up to ten percent!

According to the Alliance to Save Energy, you can save between three and five percent in energy costs for every ten degrees you reduce water temperatures.

When you consider that the average household pays over $2,000 a year for energy, that's a nice chunk of change.

Experts say reducing the hot water temperature to 120 also slows mineral buildup and corrosion in your water heater and pipes, meaning your water heater will last longer and operate more efficiently.

Something else to keep in mind: Water heated to 140 degrees is a big safety hazard, particularly for little kids, because it scalds the skin almost immediately. It takes a full five minutes for 120 degree water to burn the skin.