One easy thing to do to save on water heating costs is to insulate your water heater with a low cost wrap from any home improvement store.  According to the U.S. Department of Energy:

“Unless your water heater’s storage tank already has a high R-value of insulation (at least R-24), adding insulation to it can reduce standby heat losses by 25%–45%. This will save you around 4%–9% in waterheating costs.

“If you don’t know your water heater tank’s R-value, touch it. A tank that’s warm to the touch needs additional insulation.

“Insulating your storage water heater tank is fairly simple and inexpensive, and it will pay for itself in about a year. You can find pre-cut jackets or blankets available from around $10–$20. Choose one with an insulating value of at least R-8. Some utilities sell them at low prices, offer rebates, and even install them at a low or no cost. “

This is a simple project that shouldn’t take more than an hour or two.  So take a Saturday morning to take on this project and enjoy the savings!

Photo credit:  puregin