Study the household water meter below. Take the reading from the set of dials that looks like a car’s odometer. To read the meter, start from the left side and read only the first four digits.

The first meter reads 28 units of water (one unit equals 1000  gallons).	The second meter shows 36 units of water.
The difference, or water consumed for the measuring period, is eight units or 8,000 gallons.

Tips to Save on Home Water Heating

1. Set thermometer to 140 degrees F if you have an automatic dishwasher. Otherwise, set at 120 degrees F. Reducing from 140 degrees F to 120 degrees F can save over 18 percent on energy costs.
2. Use the coolest water setting possible for washing clothes and household cleaning.
3. Turn off water heater when you will be away for the weekend unless there is the chance of freezing.
4. Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes.
5. Don’t run the water while shaving or washing dishes.
6. Make sure faucets are always turned off completely.
7. Insulate hot water storage tank and piping. Be sure not to block air vents. This can save $8-$20 per year.
8. Repair leaky faucets. One drip per second is the equivalent of 200-240 gallons per month.
9. Install aerators and low-flow shower heads.
10. Drain a few gallons of water from the tank every six months. This increases the efficiency and life of the water heater by removing sludge from the tank.
11. Use a water heater timer for electric units.
12. Provide annual maintenance, and keep the unit clean.
13. Purchase a new energy-efficient water heater with the proper capacity for your family’s needs.