Take these steps to save energy and allow your hot water heater to last longer:

• Insulate any accessible hot water pipes.
• Turn down the hot water heater to 120° F.
• Drain a bucket of water from the heater once or twice a year to remove sediment from the tank.

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Most homeowners know that regular maintenance is required to keep their home in good working order. But did you know that a lot of this maintenance helps you live a green lifestyle? A good example is a water heater tune up. The newer model water heaters are usually well-insulated, but you should still make sure to insulate any accessible water pipes. This will help prevent heat loss and, as a result, improve energy efficiency. A lot of manufacturers set the temperature in the tank at 140 degrees. Dialing yours down to 120 degrees can cut carbon emissions by an average of 187 pounds per year. Finally, drain a bucket of water from the heater once or twice a year to remove sediment from the tank bottom that could corrode the unit as well as reduce its heating efficiency.