Introduction
Your water heater can account for up to 12% of your energy bill, making it one of the highest energy consumers in your home. However, there are several easy and practical ways to lower your water heater bills while still maintaining a comfortable supply of hot water.
Lower the Temperature
Your water heater thermostat setting determines the temperature at which your water is heated. The default setting is usually around 140°F, but most households only require water that is heated to 120°F. Every 10°F decrease in temperature can save you up to 5% on your energy bill.
Insulate Your Water Heater Tank
By insulating your water heater tank with a jacket or blanket, you can reduce standby heat loss, which is when heat escapes from the tank into the surrounding air. This is especially effective if your tank is located in an unheated space such as a basement or garage.
Insulate Your Pipes
Insulating the hot water pipes in your home can also reduce standby heat loss. It can also help to reduce the time it takes for hot water to reach your taps, saving energy when you’re waiting for hot water to flow.
Use a Timer
One way to save energy is to use a water heater timer. The timer can be programmed to turn off your water heater when you’re away from home or during periods when you don’t need hot water, such as during the night or while on vacation. This can save up to 10% on your energy bill.
Fix Leaks
Leaking faucets, pipes, and valves can cause your water heater to work harder to maintain the required temperature. This can increase your energy bill and cause unnecessary wear and tear on your water heater. Be sure to fix any leaks as soon as you notice them.
Upgrade Your Water Heater
If your water heater is old and less efficient, consider upgrading to a newer model. Newer models are more energy-efficient and can save you up to 50% on your water bills compared to older models.
Choose a High-Efficiency Water Heater
High-efficiency water heaters are designed to use less energy than traditional models. These models use innovative technology such as heat pumps and condensing technology to heat water more efficiently, resulting in lower energy bills.
Use Cold Water for Laundry
Washing clothes in cold water can save energy as the water heater does not have to work as hard to maintain temperature. It also helps to preserve fabrics and colors, and can be equally effective at sanitizing clothes as hot water.
Take Shorter Showers
Taking shorter showers can also save energy as you will be using less hot water. Try to keep your showers under 5 minutes in length to save both water and energy.
Conclusion
By applying these simple tips, you can lower your water heater bills while still maintaining a steady flow of hot water. Every little bit counts, and over time, these small changes can add up to significant savings on your energy bill.