Heating water for everyday use is a significant expense for most households. It can account for up to 18% of your energy bill, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. This is why energy-efficient water heating is essential. The good news is that there are many ways to save energy and reduce costs.
The Importance of Energy Efficiency
Water heating represents one of the largest energy costs in most homes, and this cost can easily balloon if your water heater is old and inefficient. Heating water can quickly become expensive, and the environmental impact of your water heating system can be significant. Reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions by switching to energy-efficient water heating is a smart decision.
Understanding the Types of Water Heater
Before you can choose an energy-efficient water heater, you need to understand the types of water heaters available. The three most common water heaters are:
Conventional storage water heaters: These are the most common and traditional form of water heater. They use a large tank to store hot water, and when you turn on the hot tap, the hot water from the tank is delivered to the tap. These types of heaters have improved over time, but they are still less energy-efficient than other types of heaters.
Tankless or on-demand water heaters: These are relatively new on the market, but are rapidly gaining popularity. They do not store hot water, and instead only begin heating water once you turn on the hot tap. This can save up to 30% on energy bills.
Heat-pump water heaters: These work by extracting heat from the air around them and using it to heat the water. They are more expensive to purchase than traditional water heaters, but can cut energy bills in half.
Energy-Efficient Water Heating Tips
Now that you know the different types of water heaters, it’s time to explore some tips for energy-efficient water heating:
Lower the temperature on your water heater: This is one of the easiest ways to save energy. According to the Department of Energy, reducing the temperature of your water heater from 140 degrees to 120 degrees Fahrenheit can save upwards of 10% on your energy bill.
Insulate your water heater: When you insulate your water heater or hot water pipes, you can reduce heat loss and ensure that water stays hot for longer. This not only saves energy but also money.
Fix leaks: Leaks in your hot water pipes or faucets can lead to a lot of wasted hot water and higher energy bills. Make sure to fix any leaks as soon as you notice them.
Install low-flow showerheads and faucets: These fixtures are designed to reduce the amount of water that flows through them. This can help to reduce the amount of hot water that you use, which can save energy.
Consider a tankless or on-demand water heater: Remember, these water heaters only heat the water you need, rather than storing it in a tank. This can save energy as well as money on your energy bills.
Replace your water heater: If your water heater is over eight years old, it’s likely that it’s not as energy-efficient as a newer model. Upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient model can help you save a lot of money on your energy bills.
Conclusion
Energy-efficient water heating is an important consideration for anyone who wants to save money on their energy bills and help to protect the environment. With the different types of water heaters available and the tips for energy-efficient water heating discussed above, you should be able to lower your energy costs while enjoying the convenience of hot water whenever you need it.