For most homeowners, storage-type water heaters set above 120°F are simply using more energy without providing any additional benefits. One set to even 140°F can waste $36 to $61 annually in standby heat loss, and more than $400 in demand loss. Be sure to turn off electric, or turn down gas, water heaters when you go on vacation to avoid energy waste.
Use less hot water, and you’ll not only save on energy costs, you will reduce your water bill and help preserve natural resources, too. Run your automatic dishwasher only when full, and wash and rinse full loads of laundry in cold water. Install low-flow showerheads, and don’t forget to check for and repair plumbing leaks. All it takes is a few changes in your normal habits and a small investment or two to start using a lot less energy.
Older electric storage-type water heaters can lose a lot of heat through their walls. Wrapping it in an insulating jacket can save energy wasted through excess heat loss, and make your water heater more efficient (insulating natural gas or oil-burner water heaters should be left to professional installers.) Insulating the hot water pipes in your home can save energy wasted through heat loss, and keep your hot water from cooling off before it reaches the tap. Insulating blankets or jackets are available at home improvement stores. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or enlist the help of a professional.
ENERGY STAR® certified water heaters save energy and money with smart design enhancements that improve efficiency and performance. If your water heater is 10 or more years old, replace it with an ENERGY STAR® certified model to start saving money right away. There’s an ENERGY STAR® certified water heater to fit every household’s needs, from electric heat pump models to electric on demand, to solar water heating systems that save even more energy and money.
Sediment can build up in a water heater over time. When it does, it needs to be drained out. Manufacturers recommend that you perform this maintenance once every 3 to 6 months. Sediment buildup makes your hot water heater work harder, which translates into a more expensive utility bill and a shorter lifespan for your water heater.
