Traditionally the best way to conserve energy and skimp on winter electric bills was to keep the thermostat low and tough out the winter in layers of wool. We know better now, and these days we understand it is possible to be warm all winter without spiraling into debt. Energy efficiency is the key.

Chances are the hot water heater in a given household is not insulated. This is a huge waste of energy and is also a problem that can be easily fixed. Installing an electric hot water heater blanket is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to decrease electric bills. Hot water heater blankets can save an average household between four and nine percent in heating costs by reducing standby heat losses by about thirty-five percent.

It is very easy to install a precut electric hot water heater blanket so it is normally not a problem for the average home owner. Most blankets come with easy to follow instructions. It should also be noted that electric hot water heater blankets are normally much easier to install than gas water heater blankets.

If installing the blanket on a new water heater, you might consider placing a thick wooden board under the hot water heater. This board will insulate the bottom of the hot water heater, and since cold floors can lead to significant heat loss an insulating board can nearly double the efficiency of the electric hot water heater blanket.