How Your Hot Water Heater Can Save You Money

Did you know that 18% of your average energy bill comes from heating your water? Heating water requires more energy than any other household task except heating and cooling your whole home. Making sure your water heater is as efficient as it can be will save you money.

Inefficient water heaters do a poorer job of heating your water which increases your utility bills. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps that every homeowner can take to improve the energy efficiency and lower the cost of operating their water heater.

Drain and flush the tank.

Over time, minerals like magnesium and calcium build up in your water heater’s tank. These minerals eventually settle at the bottom of the tank and harden, forming sediment. When sediment settles in your tank, it can force the system to work harder to heat your water.

We recommend draining and flushing your water heater at least once a year. Removing sediment buildup will help your heater run much more efficiently.

Flushing your water heater is a relatively simple project that you can do yourself if you have the right tools. You can also hire a professional to do it as part of a larger water heater maintenance call.

Turn down your water heater temperature.

Many manufacturers set the temperature of their water heaters to 140 degrees. However, a temperature setting of 120 degrees is sufficient for hot water in most homes. It’s estimated that for every 10 degrees that you lower your water heater’s temperature setting, that you can save 3-5 percent off of your energy bill.

Insulate the water heater and pipes.

If you have a storage-type water heater, adding additional insulation around the tank will reduce heat loss.

There are hot water heater insulation kits available that are easy to install.  Where practical, insulating the hot water pipes in your home will also prevent heat loss. This reduces the amount of water and energy needed the next time you turn on the hot water.

Fix water leaks wherever they appear.

Plumbing leaks have a greater effect on your utility bill than you might imagine. Even small faucet leaks waste 1,661 gallons of water per year. Having to replace hot water from leaks leads to your hot water heater running more and using more energy.  Also check around the water heater for leaks from the temperature-pressure relief valve and the tank itself.

Easy to Overlook

It’s easy to overlook your water heater, especially when everything seems to be working just fine. But even then performing a few easy tasks can ensure your water heater is as energy efficient as it can be.  Saving you money now and extending the life of your water heater in the future.