Energy saving tips for households in Germany

Various consumer organizations and experts are providing guidance on reducing household energy and water costs through behavioral changes and technical upgrades.

Regarding water usage, the Verbraucherzentrale Hamburg and Verbraucherzentrale Brandenburg note that heating water accounts for 14 to 15 percent of domestic energy consumption. Recommendations include shorter showers and installing water-saving showerheads, which can reduce water flow from 12 to 15 liters per minute to just 6 to 8 liters. Such upgrades can potentially save up to 300 euros annually. Additionally, replacing older hydraulic instantaneous water heaters with modern electronic models can reduce electricity consumption by 10 to 20 percent.

For heating efficiency, smart radiator thermostats have been tested as a way to automate temperature control via apps or schedules. The Bosch Heizkörperthermostat II received a top rating for its features, including geofencing and open-window detection. For those modernizing heating systems, Buderus offers online tools to calculate potential state subsidies under the Federal Funding for Efficient Buildings (BEG) and estimate energy savings.

In the kitchen, experts suggest avoiding unnecessary oven preheating to save up to 20 percent energy, though certain delicate recipes may still require it. Users are also cautioned against leaving oven doors ajar after cooking to release residual heat, as concentrated heat escaping through a small gap may damage adjacent furniture.