While the bathroom is rarely the largest room in your home, it definitely is the busiest, and can be a place of high energy usage. These are just a few habits that can be implemented to help you reduce your energy consumption and utility bills.

Install a Low Flow Shower Head & Use Less Water. Hot showers can be stress-relieving but energy-wasting. The average American uses 80-100 gallons of water daily, with 10-minute showers costing $38 more annually. To help conserve water and reduce energy usage, install a showerhead that uses less water.

Check for plumbing stack insulation. The plumbing stack, which is a central drainpipe, collects water from other drains in your home. If your insulation isn’t adequate, it can release heat when running hot water. Seasonal Tip: Add windows for ventilation and natural light during Spring and Summer.

Upgrade your faucets. Leaky faucets waste energy if they drip hot water. Hire a professional to repair or replace leaky bathroom faucets; they can also install aerators to slow the flow of water when washing your hands or brushing your teeth. Replacing faucets with high-efficiency models, like an ENERGY STAR® shower head, can conserve water and reduce your energy use.

Unplug unused bathroom tools. Unplug bathroom items when done prepping for the day! Leaving them plugged in can sap energy while you’re away. Limit the use of hair tools, like blow dryers, and air-dry your hair whenever possible. This will help save energy long term and is better for your hair health than repeated exposure to heat.