:quality(85)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/infobae/MBICABJF6BGSZGYPGZGGNUKY3Q.jpg "Why you should adopt the use of cold water, almost all the time")
American households are unknowingly consuming a significant amount of hot water on a daily basis, contributing to high energy usage and utility costs. According to the Department of Energy, the average American home uses about 64 gallons of hot water every day, primarily for activities such as washing clothes, showering, and washing dishes. This excessive use of hot water is responsible for over 10 percent of annual residential energy use, making it the third-highest energy consumer in households after air conditioning and heating.
One simple solution to reduce energy consumption and utility bills is to switch to using cold water for various household tasks. By making this small change, individuals can significantly lower their carbon footprint and contribute to reducing CO2 emissions. Washing machines, for example, consume an average of 25 gallons of hot water per use, with laundry being a major area where using cold water can make a big difference.
Joe Vukovich, a staff attorney at the Natural Resources Defense Council, recommends washing four out of every five loads of laundry in cold water to reduce CO2 emissions by 864 pounds in a year. Additionally, modern laundry detergents are formulated to clean effectively at lower temperatures, making the switch to cold water an easy and environmentally friendly choice.
Showering is another activity that accounts for a significant amount of the water Americans use in their homes, with nearly half of a home’s hot water being used for bathing. Experts suggest taking shorter showers with warm or room temperature water to reduce energy usage and minimize skin dehydration. Using cold water for washing hands and rinsing dishes can also help save energy and reduce carbon emissions.
Overall, experts emphasize the importance of minimizing hot water usage in households to promote energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. By making simple changes like washing laundry in cold water and taking shorter showers, individuals can make a positive impact on both their wallets and the planet.