Energy savings with water heaters
As much as 20 percent of your monthly electric bill can come from heating water. There are several no-cost ways you can save energy with your water heater.
- A leaking hot water faucet will waste electricity because your water heater is running continuously to keep heating the water that is leaking.
- A five-minute shower using a flow restrictor in the shower head uses less water and energy than a bath.
- To save energy, do not set water heaters above 140° F.
- Flushing two to three gallons of water from your electric water heater annually will extend the life of the unit and provide greater efficiency.
- Many modern water heaters have a vacation setting which stops heating the water when you will be away for a period of time.
Further savings can be realized with the following low-cost tips.
- One of the easiest ways to save heating energy is to wrap an insulation blanket around the water heater. They are easy to install and can cut electricity by as much as 10 percent. Before installing an insulation blanket, be sure to read all the manufacturer’s literature. Many tanks are already insulated and do not require additional insulation. Also, insulate the hot water line leading away from the water heater.
- If the water heater has overhead pipes, heat may migrate in the water lines when hot water is not in use. The heater must make up for this heat loss. Install a heat trap, which is a loop or a U-shaped kink in the pipe, near the water heater.
Other ways to save energy and money that require a larger investment.
- Most hot water heaters can be expected to last 10 to 15 years. Even if your older water heater seems to be working well, you might consider replacing it with a newer, high-efficiency unit.
- A water heater located outside the living space costs more to operate than one centrally located. The point of most frequent hot water usage is in the kitchen. The bathroom uses a larger quantity at less frequent intervals. Locate the water heater within 20 feet of the kitchen.
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