Water heaters are an essential part of our daily lives, but they also use up a significant amount of energy. One common misconception about water heaters is that turning down the temperature saves energy and reduces bills. However, this is just one of many energy-saving myths surrounding our water heaters.
In this article, we’ll explore some common energy-saving myths related to water heater temperature settings and debunk them with the truth.
- Myth: Lowering the Water Heater Temperature Saves Significant Energy
- Truth: Lowering the Temperature Can Increase Bacterial Growth
- Myth: A Higher Water Heater Temperature Provides More Hot Water
- Truth: High Temperatures Lead to More Heat Loss
- Myth: It's Best to Keep the Water Heater Running 24/7
- Truth: Timers Can Save Energy and Money
Myth: Lowering the Water Heater Temperature Saves Significant Energy
Many people think turning their water heater’s temperature down from the default setting of 140°F to 120°F can significantly reduce energy usage and lower bills. But the truth is, the amount of energy saved by doing so is negligible.
The Department of Energy states that lowering the temperature by just 10°F can save around 3-5% on heating costs. This means that lowering the temperature by 20°F would only save roughly 6-10% on heating costs – not a significant amount.
Truth: Lowering the Temperature Can Increase Bacterial Growth
One significant downside to lowering the temperature on your water heater is that it can lead to bacterial growth. At temperatures below 120°F, bacteria like Legionella can grow and thrive in your water heater’s tank, causing health risks for you and your family.
The ideal temperature to avoid bacterial growth is 140°F. At this temperature, any bacteria in the tank are killed, making this the safest water temperature for your home.
Myth: A Higher Water Heater Temperature Provides More Hot Water
Another common myth surrounding water heaters is that a higher temperature setting will result in more hot water. However, this is not the case.
The temperature of the water heater only determines the temperature of the water leaving the tank. The tank’s size, heating capacity, and flow rate are what determine how much water the tank can provide.
Truth: High Temperatures Lead to More Heat Loss
Another drawback of keeping your water heater at a high temperature is heat loss. The higher the temperature of the water in the tank, the more heat it will lose due to the tank’s insulation and the surrounding environment.
This means that the water heater will need to work harder and use more energy to maintain its high temperature setting. Lowering the temperature to a reasonable temperature can help prevent unnecessary heat loss and reduce energy consumption.
Myth: It’s Best to Keep the Water Heater Running 24/7
People may think that keeping their water heater running 24/7 will ensure they have hot water when needed and save energy. But this is just another energy-saving myth.
The truth is, keeping your water heater running all the time, especially when you don’t need hot water, can waste energy and increase your bills. Instead, experts suggest installing a timer or smart thermostat to turn off the water heater when it’s not needed.
Truth: Timers Can Save Energy and Money
Installing a timer or smart thermostat on your water heater can help save energy and reduce your bills. These devices can turn your water heater off when you’re not home or when you don’t need hot water, such as during the night or when you’re away on vacation. This small step can help reduce your energy consumption and lower your bills in the long run.
In conclusion, while adjusting the temperature on your water heater may seem like a simple step to save energy and reduce bills, it’s important to understand the facts and avoid energy-saving myths. Keeping your water heater at a reasonable temperature, using timers, and following proper maintenance can help you save energy, reduce costs, and keep you and your family safe and comfortable.