If you’re looking to save some money on your energy bill every month, upgrading your water heater can be a great place to start. Water heating can account for up to 20% of your total home energy usage, so making the switch to a more efficient water heater can result in significant savings over time. Here are some energy saving tips to consider when upgrading your water heater.
Traditional Water Heaters vs. Tankless Water Heaters
Traditional water heaters store and heat water in a large tank, which can lead to wasted energy as the water constantly needs to be kept at a consistent temperature. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, only heat water as it’s needed, making them much more energy-efficient. If you’re looking to make a big change and save a lot of money in the long term, switching to a tankless water heater might be the right choice for you.
Upgrade Your Tank Water Heater
If you’re not ready to make the switch to a tankless water heater, upgrading your current tank water heater can still lead to increased efficiency. One easy upgrade is to add an insulation blanket to your water heater, which can reduce heat loss from the tank. You can also consider upgrading to a high-efficiency condensing water heater, which uses a secondary heat exchanger to capture heat that would otherwise be lost and increase its efficiency.
Size Matters
The size of your water heater can also impact its efficiency. If your water heater is too large for your needs, you could be wasting energy keeping extra water heated that you’ll never use. On the other hand, a water heater that’s too small will struggle to keep up with demand and may end up using more energy in the long run to try to catch up. Make sure you choose the right size water heater for your household’s needs to maximize its efficiency.
Consider Energy Source
The type of energy your water heater uses can also impact its efficiency. If you currently use an electric water heater, switching to a gas or propane water heater may be a more efficient choice. Gas and propane water heaters often have a lower operating cost and can save you money in the long term. However, if your home isn’t already set up to use gas or propane, the installation cost may not make it worth it financially.
Maintenance is Key
No matter what type of water heater you have, regular maintenance is key to keeping it running efficiently. One easy maintenance task is to drain the tank and flush out any sediment buildup at least once a year. This will help your water heater run more efficiently and last longer. You should also have your water heater inspected by a professional at least once every couple of years to make sure everything is working correctly and catch any potential issues early.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your water heater can be a great way to save money on your energy bill and increase your home’s efficiency. Whether you choose to switch to a tankless water heater or just upgrade your current tank heater, make sure you choose the right size and energy source for your household’s needs. Regular maintenance will also help keep your water heater running efficiently for years to come. By following these energy saving tips, you can start saving money and reducing your energy usage today.