Author: easyflowadm

Ever wondered how much your daily shower is costing you, not just in water, but in energy?

With rising energy prices and a growing focus on sustainability, it’s no surprise that more UK households are paying closer attention to how much it costs to heat water for everyday use. Showers are one of the biggest users of hot water in the home, so let’s break down exactly what they cost and what you can do to reduce your bills.

Average Cost to Heat Water for a Shower

To estimate the cost, you’ll need to consider:

• How much hot water your shower uses

• How long your shower lasts

• What system heats your water (gas, electric, or other)

• Your energy tariff (cost per kWh)

A typical UK shower uses 7 to 10 litres of water per minute. Let’s assume a 10-minute shower at 8 litres/minute, that’s 80 litres total.

Now, heating 1 litre of water by 1°C takes 4.18 kilojoules of energy, or about 0.00116 kWh. So, to heat 80 litres from, say, 10°C (cold mains) to 40°C (comfortable shower temp), you’re raising it by 30°C:

• 80 litres × 30°C × 0.00116 = 2.78 kWh per shower

Now let’s apply energy rates:

• Gas boiler (7p per kWh average): 2.78 × £0.07 = £0.19 per shower

• Electric immersion (24p per kWh average): 2.78 × £0.24 = £0.67 per shower

That might not sound like much, but it adds up:

One person, one daily 10-minute electric shower:

• £0.67 × 365 = £244.55 per year

• A family of four using gas-heated water:

• £0.19 × 4 × 365 = £277.40 per year

Factors That Can Raise or Lower Your Cost

Several things can tip your cost in either direction:

• Shower length: The biggest variable. Even reducing by 2 minutes can cut your usage by 20%.

• Flow rate: Power showers and rainfall heads may use up to 15 litres per minute, nearly double the average.

• Water temperature: A few degrees lower can save energy without feeling much different.

• Heating method: Electric is generally 3x more expensive per kWh than gas, though electric showers are more efficient in short bursts.

Ways to Save Money on Showering

If you’re looking to reduce your water-heating costs without sacrificing hygiene or comfort, try these tips:

• Install a low-flow showerhead: These can cut water use by 30–50%.

• Take shorter showers: Just shaving off 1–2 minutes makes a big difference.

• Time your showers: If you’re on an off-peak tariff (like Economy 7), shower during low-cost hours.

• Use a thermostatic mixer: Keeps temperature steady without wasting water adjusting it.

• Check your cylinder settings: You may be heating to a higher temp than needed.

And if you’re using an older immersion heater or poorly insulated cylinder, consider upgrading—it can pay for itself surprisingly quickly.

Showering without Breaking the Bank

Heating water for a shower costs between £0.19 and £0.67 per use in the UK, depending on your heating method. Over time, that adds up, especially in a busy household.

Understanding the numbers helps you make smarter choices: shorter showers, better flow control, and efficient heating all translate to real savings. Whether you’re trimming your bills or reducing your carbon footprint, a few small changes in the bathroom can go a long way.

You know the drill: turn on the tap, wait… wait a bit more… and finally, hot water. That daily delay wastes time, money, and a surprising amount of water. But what if you could get hot water instantly, without the waste?

That’s where hot water recirculation systems come in. These systems keep hot water moving through your pipes so that when you open the tap, it’s already there, which means no more cold-water purging.

In this article, we’ll explore how hot water recirculation works, the types of systems available, and how to decide if one is right for your home.

Why Is There a Delay in Hot Water?

Most UK homes have either:

• A combi boiler that heats water on demand, or

• An unvented cylinder that stores hot water for timed use.

In both cases, if the hot water pipe to your tap is long or not well-insulated; it takes time for hot water to travel from the source. The water sitting in the pipe cools, and you have to flush it out every time. That delay leads to:

• Wasted water (typically one to three litres per use)

• Wasted energy (because the water heated earlier isn’t being used)

• Lost time and comfort

What Is a Hot Water Recirculation System?

A hot water recirculation system keeps hot water circulating through your pipes so that it’s always available at the tap. Instead of waiting for the water to “travel” from your cylinder or boiler, the water is already warm and ready.

There are two main types:

1. Dedicated Return Line Systems

These systems include a separate return pipe that brings unused hot water back to the cylinder. A small pump keeps water moving in a loop.

Pros:

• Most efficient

• Works with timers or sensors

• Ideal for new builds or major renovations

Cons:

• Requires additional plumbing

• Higher upfront cost

2. Demand-Control or Retrofit Systems

These work with your existing pipes by using a pump and bypass valve at the furthest fixture. When activated (usually by a button or motion sensor), the pump pushes water through the system until hot water reaches the tap.

Pros:

• Works in existing homes

• Lower installation cost

• Can be manual, timer-based, or sensor-driven

Cons:

• Slight energy use increase

• Return water passes through cold line (may affect cold taps briefly)

How Much Water Can You Save?

Let’s do some quick math. If you waste two litres every time you run the tap or shower and do that five times a day, you’re wasting over 3,600 litres per year. That’s nearly 4,000 bottles of water down the drain.

In homes with long pipe runs or multiple bathrooms, that number can easily double.

With a recirculation system:

• Water reaches the tap in one to two seconds.

• You can reduce wasted water by up to 90%.

• Some systems also reduce overall energy use by preventing full heat-up cycles.

Are Recirculation Systems Energy Efficient?

Yes, with the right settings.

Early systems ran 24/7, wasting energy. But modern systems use:

• Timers to operate during peak use hours (like mornings)

• Thermostats to shut off when water is hot enough

• Motion sensors or manual buttons to activate only when needed

These upgrades allow you to enjoy instant hot water without constantly reheating your system.

Plus, if you already have a solar thermal or thermodynamic system, recirculation can make that renewable heat go further, delivering solar-heated water instantly, rather than wasting it.

Installation & Costs

Costs vary depending on system type:

• Retrofit systems: £200 to £500 (including installation)

• Dedicated return line systems: £800 to £2,000+ (depending on layout and labour)

Operating costs are low, especially with sensor or timer controls. Many homeowners report payback periods of two to five years, especially in larger homes with multiple users.

Is It Right for You?

A hot water recirculation system is a good idea if:

• You have long waits for hot water at multiple fixtures

• You want to reduce water waste without changing your daily habits

• You’re renovating and can install a return line

• You want better integration with renewables or smart home systems

If you’re in a flat or small home with short pipe runs, the savings may be minimal. But for larger homes, especially those with unvented cylinders or solar thermal heating, the comfort and savings can be substantial.

Making Your Decision

Hot water recirculation systems offer a simple solution to a common frustration. By moving hot water closer to where and when you need it, they cut down on waste, increase convenience, and support greater overall efficiency in your home.

They’re a particularly smart choice if you’re already investing in renewable energy or upgrading your plumbing, offering one of the rare home improvements that boosts both comfort and sustainability at the same time.

Thermodynamic water heaters are gaining popularity as a low-maintenance, energy-efficient way to heat water using renewable energy. But in a country where winter can stretch endlessly and sunshine is in short supply, one big question remains:

Do thermodynamic water heaters actually work in the UK winter?

The answer is yes, but how well they work (and whether they’re right for your home) depends on a few different factors. In this article, we’ll break down how thermodynamic systems operate, how they compare to solar thermal, and what kind of performance you can expect year-round, even in the depths of a damp British winter.

What Is a Thermodynamic Water Heater?

A thermodynamic water heater uses a refrigerant loop and heat pump to draw heat from the outside air, like an air source heat pump. That energy is then transferred into your hot water cylinder to heat your domestic water.

The system includes:

• A thermodynamic panel, usually mounted on a wall or roof
• A compressor unit
• A hot water cylinder (often unvented)

Unlike traditional solar thermal panels, which rely on direct sunlight, thermodynamic panels can draw ambient heat from the air, even when it’s cloudy, rainy, or cold.

So… Do They Work in Winter?

Yes. Thermodynamic water heaters are specifically designed to extract heat from the air in low temperatures, even when it’s -5°C or colder.

Here’s how:

• The refrigerant used in the panel boils at a very low temperature (typically below -20°C).

• That means it can absorb heat from the air, even in winter.

• The compressor then raises the temperature of the refrigerant and transfers it to your hot water cylinder.

If there’s a temperature difference between the refrigerant and the air, the system can work.

What Kind of Efficiency Can You Expect?

In summer, thermodynamic systems operate with a Coefficient of Performance (COP) of 3 to 4. That means for every 1 kWh of electricity used, they generate 3 to 4 kWh of heat.

In winter, the COP drops to around 2 to 2.5 depending on the location and installation specifics. That’s still twice as efficient as a traditional electric immersion heater, and more consistent than solar thermal.

Winter Benefits:

• Reliable hot water even on cold, grey days

• Works at night (unlike solar)

• No need for direct sunlight

Winter Limitations:

• Slightly longer heat-up times

• Lower efficiency in sub-zero temperatures

• May require a backup immersion heater during peak use

How Does It Compare to Solar Thermal in Winter?

In short: if you want consistent winter hot water performance, thermodynamic systems are a much more reliable option than solar thermal.

Are Thermodynamic Water Heaters Right for UK Homes?

These systems are particularly well-suited for:

• Homes with limited roof space or poor solar exposure

• Households using off-peak electricity tariffs

• People looking to replace or supplement an electric immersion heater

• Properties without access to mains gas

They’re also quiet, compact, and have no moving parts outdoors, making them low-maintenance and very discreet.

Installation is usually straightforward, and they work well with unvented hot water cylinders and recirculation systems, giving you warm water faster and more efficiently.

What About Energy Bills?

Even in winter, a thermodynamic system can cut electric water heating costs by 30 to 70%, depending on your usage and tariff.

If you currently rely on an electric immersion heater, the savings can be significant. Over a few years, those savings can pay back the installation cost while also reducing your carbon footprint.

The Right Water Heating Solution for You?

Thermodynamic water heaters absolutely work in the UK winter, and they might just be one of the most reliable year-round renewable hot water systems on the market.

They don’t rely on sunshine. They perform well in damp, cloudy conditions. And they’re far more efficient than old-school immersion heaters.

If you’re looking for a sustainable way to cut energy bills, reduce carbon emissions, and enjoy reliable hot water, even in February, you might not need the sun. Just a little heat in the air will do.

Having access to hot water is important to modern life, but using too much of it means higher bills and wasted energy. The good news? You don’t have to suffer through cold showers to save money. A few smart changes can cut your hot water usage without sacrificing comfort. Here’s how.

1. Take Shorter Showers

A long, steamy shower feels great, but it’s one of the biggest drains on your hot water supply. Cutting your shower time by just 2–3 minutes can save thousands of litres of hot water per year. If you really want to maximize savings, try a water-efficient showerhead. You’ll still get great pressure while using up to 50% less hot water.

Not only are you reducing energy usage, but because the shower changes how much water’s consumed overall, you’re also helping to manage a finite resource.

2. Use a Water Heater Programmer

Why heat water when you’re not using it? That’s just spending money for no reason. A water heater programmer lets you schedule heating times so you’re not keeping a full tank hot all day when no one’s using it. Off-peak heating can also save money if you’re on a tariff with lower nighttime rates.

3. Lower the Temperature

Most water heaters are set too high by default. Keeping yours at 60°C is hot enough to kill bacteria but low enough to avoid unnecessary energy waste. Setting your temp lower will reduce your energy usage, but it’s also a smart move if you have young children in the home. Scalds are one of the most common injuries for infants, toddlers, and young children in the UK.

4. Fix Leaky Taps and Pipes

A dripping hot water tap might not seem like a big deal, but over time, it wastes hundreds of litres of water (and the energy you used to heat that water in the first place!). Fix leaks quickly to stop money from going down the drain. In some cases, leak repair is a quick DIY project. In other instances, you’ll need a qualified plumber. That’s particularly true if the leak involves your unvented cylinder. Only hire a G3-qualified engineer for that work.

5. Wash Clothes on Cold

Do you often wash clothes in hot water? 90% of the energy used in washing machines goes toward heating water. Switching to a 30°C wash or a cold-water cycle for most loads reduces energy use without affecting cleanliness. Not only that, but it’ll also prolong your clothing’s lifespan. And to be honest, most clothes don’t need to be washed in hot water to get completely clean.

6. Be Smart in the Kitchen

The kitchen uses a pretty big per centage of your home’s hot water. It pays to make smart decisions here. Not sure what you can do to reduce hot water usage in the kitchen?

• Fill the sink instead of letting hot water run when washing dishes.

• Use a dishwasher (if you have one), it uses less water than washing by hand.

• Only boil what you need. Heating extra water in the kettle just wastes energy (and it takes longer before your water’s ready to make that cuppa).

Small Changes = Big Savings

Reducing hot water use isn’t just good for your wallet—it’s good for the environment. With these simple adjustments, you can lower your bills without giving up comfort.

Start Saving Today

Want to make your home’s hot water system even more efficient? EasyFlow can help with expert advice and smart upgrades. Contact us today and start saving!

Heating water is one of the biggest energy costs in your home. If your water heater runs all day, it’s burning money, literally. A water heater programmer puts you in control, letting you heat water only when you need it. The result? Lower energy bills, less waste, and a more efficient home.

Of course, you might not be certain how to use a programmer, much less how it cuts down on your energy usage and expenses. Thankfully, it’s not that complicated. Here’s how to make the most of your programmer.

What Is a Water Heater Programmer?

A water heater programmer is pretty much what it sounds like: a smart timer that controls when your water heater turns on and off. Instead of heating water 24/7, it lets you set a schedule that matches your daily routine, reducing unnecessary energy use.

To really understand the value here, let’s look at how a typical unvented cylinder works. In an electric-fed system, the cylinder’s connected to the home’s electricity. It heats water to the temperature set on the thermostat and then turns off. As the water sits, it slowly drops in temperature. Eventually, the water heater kicks back on to reheat that water. Over time, this adds up.

With a programmer, you can break that cycle. You decide when the cylinder turns on and off, so you’re not stuck in that endless loop of heat/cool/reheat that uses up so much energy (and costs you so much money).

How Does It Save You Money?

By this point, you should have a rough idea of how programmers work and how they reduce energy use, but let’s break it down a little more. Here’s how installing a water heater programmer can help you save money every year:

1. Avoids Heating Water You Don’t Use – No more paying to keep hot water ready at 3 AM when no one needs it. An always-on water heater is an always-on drain on your bank account.
2. Optimizes Off-Peak Energy Rates – If you’re on an Economy 7 or similar tariff, a programmer can heat water when electricity is cheaper. And if you install a high-efficiency unvented cylinder with advanced insulation, you can keep that water hot for a very long time without reheating it.
3. Prevents Standby Heat Loss – Even well-insulated cylinders lose heat over time. A programmer reduces the time your heater stays on, minimizing waste. After all, why should you pay to reheat water when no one is using it?

How to Set Up Your Water Heater Programmer for Maximum Savings

Installing a programmer is just the first step toward reducing your energy use and saving money. Here’s a quick look at how to get the most out of it:

• Match Your Schedule – Set the heater to run just before peak usage times (morning showers, evening dishes) rather than all day.

• Use Off-Peak Hours – If your electricity is cheaper overnight, schedule heating during those hours.

• Don’t Overheat – Stick to 60°C—hot enough to kill bacteria but not so hot that you waste energy.

• Consider a Boost Function – Many programmers offer a quick-heating option if you need extra hot water outside your usual schedule.

The Bottom Line: Smart Heating = Smart Savings

A water heater programmer helps you cut energy waste and lower your bills without sacrificing comfort. If you’re still heating water all day, it’s time to make a change.

Upgrade Your Hot Water Control Today

Want to slash your energy bills? EasyFlow can help you set up and optimize your water heater programmer for maximum efficiency. Contact us today and start saving!