Question:
When cooking, does starting with hot water save more energy than starting with cold?
Answer:
You should only use cold water for cooking.
Water boils at 212 degrees F. So, if you start with hot tap water (120 degrees F, if you keep your water heater set to an energy-efficient setting), it will reach the boiling point a little faster than if you use cold water. But any savings there are probably offset by the energy lost as the hot water travels through pipe.
But the bigger concern is a health issue. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends you never use hot water for cooking, drinking or mixing baby formula. According to the EPA, hot tap water is more likely to contain higher levels of lead. That’s because hot water dissolves contaminants more quickly than cold water, and home plumbing, especially in older homes, can contain lead that can leach into the water. Even newer pipes labeled as “lead free” may contain up to 8 percent lead. Scientists say the risk is small, but it’s still better to use cold water. Lead can pose serious health risks. Learn more on the EPA website.
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