When it comes to saving money on your home energy bills, one of the biggest culprits is inefficient water heating. Water heating can account for up to 20% of your home’s energy usage, so it’s important to address this issue if you want to lower your energy costs. In this article, we’ll take a look at some simple tips and tricks to help you save money on your home energy bills with efficient water heating.
Choose A High-Efficiency Water Heater
The first step to efficient water heating is choosing the right water heater for your needs. Traditional storage tank water heaters are typically the least efficient, as they constantly heat and store a large volume of water, even when you’re not using it. On the other hand, tankless or on-demand water heaters only heat water when you need it, which can save you a significant amount of energy and money.
Lower The Temperature Setting
When you set your water heater to a high temperature, you’re wasting energy and money. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, lowering your water heater’s temperature to 120°F can save you up to 10% on your energy bills. Not only will your water heater use less energy, but you’ll also reduce the risk of scalding and extend the life of your water heater.
Insulate Your Water Heater
If your water heater is located in an unheated space, like a garage or basement, it can lose heat and waste energy. By insulating your water heater with a simple and inexpensive insulation blanket, you can prevent heat loss and reduce the amount of energy needed to heat your water.
Install Low-Flow Fixtures
By installing low-flow showerheads and faucets, you can reduce the amount of hot water you use, which can save you money on your energy bills. These fixtures are designed to maintain a high-pressure flow while using less water, so you won’t even notice the difference.
Fix Leaks
If you have a leaky faucet or showerhead, you could be wasting a significant amount of hot water and energy. Even a small leak can add up over time, so it’s important to fix any leaks as soon as possible. Not only will this save you money on your energy bills, but it will also lower your water usage and prevent water damage.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance can help your water heater operate more efficiently, which can save you money on your energy bills. A professional plumber can perform routine maintenance, like flushing your water heater’s tank, checking for leaks, and replacing worn parts, to ensure that your water heater is running at peak performance.
Conclusion
By following these tips and tricks, you can save money on your home energy bills by making your water heating more efficient. Whether you choose to install a high-efficiency water heater, insulate your water heater, or fix leaks, every little change can add up to significant savings over time. With a little effort and attention to detail, you can start enjoying the benefits of energy-efficient water heating today.