If you have a water bed, knowing what it
costs to operate can be a real eye opener. It uses from 100 to 150 kilowatt
hours a month (depending on whether you make your bed or not). A water bed can
easily be one of the largest energy consumers in your home. And if you have
two, it could be double trouble. Taking some steps to control these costs can
help you have a more restful (and inexpensive night's sleep).
Buy The Best
If you're in the market for a new water bed or mattress,
research the different types. Some offer greater insulation properties, which
can save money on your energy bill.
Make Your Bed
A king-sized waterbed set at 90°F (with a room
temperature of 65°F), with a comforter, uses only 100 kilowatt hours per
month to keep warm. On the other hand, the same bed, unmade, uses about 175
kilowatt hours each month to keep it warm. That means that by making your bed,
you can save about 75 kilowatt hours per month.
Invest In A Thicker Pad
Covering your water bed mattress with a one-inch foam pad
will save energy. That's because you can turn down the water bed heater. The
foam pad will keep your body away from the cold water in the bed and retain
body heat, keeping you toasty all night long. Available at home improvement
stores, one-inch foam pads can save on your annual bill for heating your water
bed.
Monitor Your Bedroom Temperature
If your bedroom temperature drops, you may spend more on
your water bed heater than you would spend on your furnace heating the air in
your room.
