In an average household, around 14 percent of the energy is used to heat water. Owners in particular can save a lot on hot water because they have access to their building technology.

The energy advice from the Baden-Württemberg Consumer Center gives tips and evaluates the effectiveness of measures.

1. Lower the hot water temperature

Hot water is provided at a temperature of up to 70 degrees Celsius. However, when showering, warm water is mixed down to 38 degrees Celsius. Until then, the high temperature causes large losses in the storage and cables. They are significantly reduced by lowering the temperature in the hot water heating system.

2. Reduce hot water delivery times

Anyone who minimizes the standby times for hot water preparation significantly reduces their energy consumption: if no warm water is required, no warm water has to be kept available.

3. Optimize circulation: limit time or switch off

Depending on the condition of the building, the circulation of hot water can lead to large energy losses: If the warm water circulates around the clock, up to ten percent of the total energy consumption can be attributed to the hot water circulation. Energy consumption is reduced if the circulation is temporarily switched off or switched off completely. In addition, the circulation temperature can sometimes be lowered, which also reduces energy consumption. For short distances, it is even possible to uninstall the circulation line

4. Use water-saving shower heads

An economical shower head costs around 20 euros and saves up to 50 percent of hot water consumption. When purchasing, please note that the shower head has a water flow of less than 9 liters per minute: standard shower heads pour out 12 to 15 liters per minute, good economy shower heads only six to seven liters. Showering remains just as pleasant and the jet pattern is retained, even though less water is used.

What are the benefits of lowering, circulation and water-saving shower heads?

Lowering the drinking water temperature from 60 to 45 degrees Celsius saves up to 30 percent of net energy. Line losses in unheated areas and storage losses are also reduced. If circulation is available, depending on the insulation and operating time, it can double the net energy requirement for hot water. The savings potential here is up to 50 percent. The use of water-saving shower heads and “aerators” saves up to a further 10 percent of the net energy requirement.

Risks and side effects

Important: The risk of Legionella in hot water can increase. Legionella multiplies at low water temperatures and can cause life-threatening pneumonia if inhaled. A weekly, short-term storage temperature of 70 degrees Celsius is therefore strongly recommended. A less serious but not negligible side effect is the limited comfort outside the adjusted circulation and hot water standby times.

If you have any questions about hot water, the energy advisors at the consumer advice centers can help with their extensive range of options. The consultation takes place online, by telephone or in a personal conversation. The energy experts provide individual, provider-independent advice. More information is available at www.verbraucherzentrale-energieberatung.de or free of charge throughout Germany on 0800 – 809 802 400 . Free online lectures on energy topics can be found at www.verbraucherzentrale-energieberatung.de/nachrichten . The consumer advice center's energy advice is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection.

Source: Baden-Württemberg Consumer Center

Related to the topic : Tip: Saving water made easy


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