Storing and heating a large volume of hot water takes a lot of energy. In most households, heating water is second is right being heating and air conditioning in energy usage. Thankfully there are ways you can improve your water heater’s efficiency so it heats more efficiently. By changing some habits and installing a few simple accessories, you can reduce the energy your water heater consumes significantly.
1. Reduce hot water usage at the source
Install water saving shower heads is one of the most effective ways to save hot water. The aim should be to reduce the minimum flow rate on the shower head to less than 2.5 gallons per minute (gpm). Some water conserving shower heads can reduce flow to as little as 1.6 gpm while maintaining acceptable water pressure. The water savings for a household of four could be as much as 14,000 gallons a year!
2. Insulate the hot water distribution system
Even in a small home, as much as 10 percent of the energy used to heat water can be lost in the pipes that supply the hot water. Insulating hot water pipes is an inexpensive way to significantly reduce heat loss.
3. Use a water heater blanket
While many new water heaters have a good level of insulation built into the tank wall, many older tanks are less well insulated and allow significant heat to escape. The larger the water heater, the more surface area for the heat to escape. You can prevent heat loss by wrapping your water heater tank in an insulation blanket available from most home supply stores. Some manufacturers recommend against installing insulating blankets on their energy-efficient models, so be sure to read your owner’s manual before adding a blanket.
4. Perform annual maintenance
Over time, storage tank water heaters can accumulate sediment that reduces heating efficiency. This sediment is often more of a problem in homes that have hard water, where limescale is seen on shower walls and fixtures. Flushing the tank annually will remove the sediment and make it easer for the burner or heating element to heat the water.
If you need help maintaining your water heater, or need to replace your old water heater, call Superior Plumbing and Heating. We can help will all your hot water needs.