If you have an electric water heater, it may be one of the larger energy users in your home, and it works harder in winter because the incoming water is colder. Many water heaters are set higher at the factory than most households need. Lowering the setting can reduce the energy used to keep a full tank hot all day.

Check the temperature at a tap and adjust the thermostat on the tank according to the manufacturer's instructions. Turn off power to the unit at the breaker before removing any access panel. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, a plumber or electrician can handle it quickly.

Avoid setting the temperature too low, since water that is not hot enough may not be ideal for every household, and anyone with specific health concerns should ask a professional about a safe setting. Insulating the first few feet of hot water pipe and fixing dripping hot water taps are other easy ways to cut waste.