There are several ways to conserve energy and water in your home, and one of the best places to start is your water heater. Many people don’t realize the impact that their water heater has on their utility bills, but by making a few adjustments, you can save money and resources.
Why Adjusting Your Water Heater Temperature Makes a Difference
Your water heater uses energy to heat the water that you use in your home, and the higher the temperature setting, the more energy it uses. The temperature of the water coming into your home is usually quite cold, so your water heater has to work harder to raise the temperature. By adjusting the temperature of your water heater, you can reduce the amount of energy it uses and also conserve water.
How to Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature
Adjusting the temperature of your water heater is a fairly simple process that you can do yourself. Here’s how:
Turn off the power. If you have an electric water heater, turn off the circuit breaker that powers it. If you have a gas water heater, turn the gas valve to "pilot" mode.
Locate the temperature dial. The temperature dial is usually located on the front of the water heater, near the bottom.
Adjust the temperature. Turn the temperature dial to the desired temperature. Keep in mind that the recommended temperature setting is 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
Turn the power back on. If you have an electric water heater, flip the circuit breaker back on. If you have a gas water heater, turn the gas valve back to the "on" position.
Benefits of Adjusting Your Water Heater Temperature
There are several benefits to adjusting your water heater temperature, including:
Energy Savings
By lowering the temperature of your water heater, you can save energy and reduce your utility bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, every 10-degree reduction in water temperature can save you up to 5% on your energy bill.
Water Conservation
Lowering your water heater temperature also helps to conserve water. If the water coming out of your taps is too hot, you may need to mix it with cold water to achieve a comfortable temperature. By lowering the temperature of your water heater, you can reduce the amount of cold water that you need to mix with hot water, which can help to conserve water.
Safety
If your water heater is set too high, it can pose a safety risk to your family. Water that is too hot can scald and burn, especially young children and the elderly. By lowering the temperature of your water heater, you can help to prevent injuries from hot water.
Other Ways to Conserve Energy and Water with Your Water Heater
In addition to adjusting the temperature of your water heater, there are several other ways to conserve energy and water, including:
Insulate Your Water Heater
If your water heater is not well insulated, it can lose heat and waste energy. You can buy an insulation blanket to wrap around your water heater to help keep the heat inside.
Install Low-Flow Fixtures
Low-flow fixtures such as showerheads and faucets can help to reduce the amount of water that you use in your home.
Fix Leaks
Leaky faucets and pipes waste water and can also increase your water bill. Make sure to fix any leaks as soon as you notice them.
Upgrade to a High-Efficiency Water Heater
If your water heater is old and inefficient, consider upgrading to a high-efficiency model. High-efficiency water heaters use less energy and can help you save money on your utility bills in the long run.
Conclusion
Adjusting the temperature of your water heater is a simple and effective way to conserve energy and water in your home. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can adjust the temperature of your water heater and start saving on your utility bills today.