When was the last time you examined your hot water heater for efficiency? Energy.gov estimates that hot water heaters are responsible for about 12 percent of a home’s yearly energy usage. The only appliance that uses more is the HVAC system. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to control your hot water usage and your water heating bills.
1. Schedule an Energy Assessment
Most utility companies, especially electric companies, offer free energy assessments. These involve examining your home’s total energy usage and performing minor retrofits, like installing energy-efficient light bulbs. When it comes to your water heater, the individual may insulate the pipes leading to and from the water heater and installing low flow faucet adapters and shower heads.
2. Lower the Temperature on Your Hot Water Heater
Most water heaters presets are at 140 degrees. Water this hot can pose a scalding risk as well as increased water heating bills. Lowering your water heater’s thermostat to 120 degrees reducing the risk of scalds and can lower your water heater energy usage by as much as 22 percent, according to Energy.gov. If you’re uncomfortable lowering the thermostat yourself, you can call a qualified plumber, like our professional plumbers at Hanna Plumbing & Heating for a water heater service call.
3. Pay Attention to Your Water Using Appliances
Dishwashers and washers can use a lot of hot water if you don’t pay attention to the settings and the sizes of your loads. Our professional plumbers in Marion recommend only running your dishwasher when it is full and using the shorter cycles in order to reduce hot water usage. When operating your standard washer, consider using cold water for most loads. In addition, make sure you’re setting the water level so that it rises only slightly higher than the clothes. Standard washers are designed to clean clothes by agitating them so that they rub against each other to free dirt and stains.
4. Schedule a Water Heater Inspection and Cleaning
Schedule an annual water heater inspection and cleaning with a professional, experienced plumber. Scheduling an inspection can reduce your water heating bills and extend the useful life of your water heater. This is because water heaters build-up limescale and sediment over time, which collects in the bottom of the tank and can foul the elements.
To schedule a water heating inspection and cleaning, contact us or call us at 319-377-2809.
