Looking for ways to reduce your hot water usage and, ultimately, your monthly power bill? It's easier than you think, so long as you're willing to make some minor changes to your household and your habits.

Here are five simple tips for reducing your hot water costs in a significant way:

1. Use Cold Water Whenever Possible

There are many situations where we use up hot water without thinking about it. The best example is probably in how we use our washing machines. Though many of us assume that hot water is more effective in cleaning our dirty laundry, it's only really necessary if you're dealing with soil, blood, or other stubborn stains. For typical loads of laundry, cold water is just as effective (and much cheaper).

To reduce pressure on your hot water system further and save money in the process, you can also try using cold water when brushing your teeth, washing your face, and doing the dishes, among others. 

2. Take Care of Leaks Quickly

Having your leaks fixed may seem like a chore you can put off for a few weeks, but doing so may cost you. Even minor leaks of just one drip per second can cost a household $1 a month. If you're dealing with multiple leaks, which could increase in severity if left unfixed, you'll definitely see a change in your power bill. 

3. Be Mindful of Your Showering Habits

As tempting as it may be to have long, steamy showers every day, doing so will have major consequences on your power bill. If you really want to lower your hot water costs, you should re-examine your showering habits, including the frequency of your showers, the amount of time you spend in the shower, and the amount of hot water you use.

Not keen on giving up one or two hot showers a week? The transition will be a lot easier if you simply shorten the length of the shower. You could also keep the door shut to keep the steam in the bathroom and keep warm, comfy clothes on standby for when you get out of the shower!

4. Get the Most Out of Your Appliances

Using cold water when washing your clothes is an easy way to reduce your hot water costs. However, you should only be running loads of laundry if you have enough to do a FULL load. Running washing machines, dishwashers, and other large appliances when you don't really need to will waste water and money, so make sure they're filled up before you turn them on.

5. Swap Out Your Hot Water System

Is your hot water system over a decade old? Is it damaged and costing you more money than it's worth? You may want to find a licenced business with a lifetime workmanship guarantee to replace your existing system with an updated model. The cost of the new system and the installation could be a great long-term investment that offsets your power bill.

If you and other members of your household incorporate these five tips into your daily routine, you're guaranteed to see a reduction in your monthly power bill. Not sure how to get your housemates on board? Send them this article so they can see for themselves!