If you were to turn on your shower with the water temperature as high as it can go, would you be afraid to stick your hand in because the water would be too hot and may scald you? If you answered “yes,” then the temperature setting on your water heater is likely too high and you’re wasting money.

Water heating is the second largest energy expense in your home and typically accounts for 18% of your monthly energy costs. Even though the Department of Energy recommends most Americans set their water heater’s temperature to 120°F, many of us have never adjusted the temperature from the default manufacturer setting of 140°F.

A drop from 140°F to 120°F, can save you anywhere from $36 to $61 over the course of 2020. The Department of Energy has step by step instructions on lowering your water heater’s temperature, making this an easy project to take on over the weekend.

U.S. Department of Energy Energy Saver