5 Tips To Save On Hot Water Heaters And Energy Efficiency
Posted by Jody Raines on Fri, Dec 09, 2011 @ 06:09 PM
Hot water heaters last approximately ten to fifteen years. Even if you have an older heater there are things you can do to improve efficiency.
Most hot water heaters look like a vertical cylinder. The principle of the water heater is that cool water enters the cylinder and the water is heated. The hot water is at the top of the system.
Having hot water available is expected when you get in the shower or do dishes, and yet there are ways to save money if you understand the way a hot water heater works.
Tips To Saving Money on Hot Water:
- Use an insulating jacket to cover your heater. The jacket can reduce heat loss by 25 -40 percent, dependent upon the age of your water heater.
- Reduce the water heater temperature to 120 Fahrenheit. Each 10 degree reduction in water temperature saves 3 - 5 % of the energy consumption.
- Wash clothes in "warm" or "cold" settings. This is better for most fabrics, and conserves heated water.
- Lower your thermostat or turn it off when you go on vacation. You won't need hot water while you are away. (Be sure you know how to turn on the hot water heater before you turn it off. If it has a pilot light, it may be safer just to lower the temperature instead of turning it off completely.)
- In addition to the blanket, you may want to consider insulating the pipes as well. This can reduce heat loss from the hot water heater on the way to the tap.
If your hot water heater is older, you may want to consider a new hot water heater. Have your system evaluated annually to make sure you don't wind up having a hot water emergency when you have a house full of guests for the holiday! Besides, the newer hot water heaters are more efficient and you could potentially save in energy costs the equivalent of the cost of the heater!
Columbia NW Heating Inc. specializes in efficiently upgrading or repairing air conditioning, heating, gas furnaces, heat pump, ductless heat pumps, tankless water heaters, geothermal heat pumps, electric furnaces, air filtration systems, oil furnaces, gas fireplaces and inserts, and all systems related to the comfort of your home or office in Portland and surrounding areas.