Every homeowner enjoys saving money, and an easy way to do so is to reduce your energy bill. With that said, one of the biggest culprits of household energy consumption is your water heater. According to data from the U.S. Department of Energy, this appliance accounts for nearly one-fifth of your monthly electricity costs. If it’s gas-powered, it can represent about 15% of the gas bill. By following these four simple tips for the new year, you can lower your energy bill and save a significant amount of money in the long run.
1. Lower the Water Temperature
Most modern water heaters come preset at 140 degrees. In most cases, this temperature range is excessively hot for bathing, showering, and other household uses. Lowering your unit’s thermostat by 10 to 15 degrees can still supply your home with hot water without consuming the excess energy required to heat it to unnecessary levels. By making this change alone, you can potentially knock off 2% of your energy costs.
2. Insulate the Tank and Pipes
Your water heater consumes energy to bring your water up to the correct temperature. Then, it consumes even more energy to store the water while maintaining its heat. An easy solution to this problem is to purchase and install insulation for your water heater’s tanks and pipes. Like putting on a coat in the winter, insulation provides a barrier between your hot water and the cool air outside. This reduces heat transfer and ultimately reduces your unit’s energy needs.
3. Flush the Tank Annually
Water contains trace amounts of sediment and other minerals that get left behind in your tank. Over time, the sediment builds up and makes your unit work harder to heat up the same amount of water. To prevent this from happening, make sure to drain your water heater tank once a year or as-recommended by your unit’s manufacturer. Doing this on a regular basis will clear out the sediment before it can impact your unit’s efficiency. To drain the tank, shut off the power to your unit and wait a few hours for the stored water to cool down. Gather any necessary supplies, such as a screwdriver, hose, and your unit’s valve key if applicable. Then, neutralize pressure by turning on a hot water faucet somewhere in your home, attach the hose to the tank’s drain pipe, and open the valve. For detailed instructions for your specific unit, refer to your owner’s manual.
4. Schedule Professional Maintenance
By far, regular maintenance from a trained expert is the best way to ensure your water heater is working at full capacity. A professional technician will inspect your unit for possible defects, perform necessary maintenance tasks, and recommend ways for you to save even more energy with customized tips based on your family’s needs. Regular maintenance also prolongs the overall life of your unit, contributing to even more long-term savings.
Reach Out to Your Friends in the Industry
This might be the perfect time to reevaluate your hot water heater situation at your home. For water heater leases in Muncie, IN, contact Aqua Gold Water Treatment today!